What Is Atypical Pneumonia?
4. Is Atypical Pneumonia Contagious?
Walking pneumonia is contagious, which is why an outbreak can occur in certain locations or populations. It is spread from one person to another when they are in close contact. The infection is carried by droplets that are spread through sneezing and coughing, and those close enough to inhale them can become infected.
The bacteria also survive for a time on a person’s hands, so infection transfer may occur from touching the mouth. Another reason it is so contagious is that an infected person can spread it even before symptoms begin. A person is contagious from two to four weeks prior to the appearance of symptoms and until the symptoms have disappeared.
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