Is acute bronchitis easily transmissible?

Written by Wang Chun Mei
Pulmonology
Updated on June 20, 2025
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Acute bronchitis has a relatively high incidence rate in clinical settings, often occurring in populations with lowered immune functions. Typically, acute bronchitis caused by bacterial infection does not have the potential to spread. However, acute bronchitis resulting from viral, mycoplasma, or chlamydia infections can be transmitted through respiratory droplets, especially among individuals with compromised immune systems. If these individuals come into contact with others infected by such viruses or pathogens, transmission is likely to occur. Therefore, once acute bronchitis is accurately diagnosed, it is crucial to administer timely anti-infection treatment to significantly reduce the chances of transmission.

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Written by Hu Bai Yu
Pulmonology
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Acute bronchitis fever lasts for several days.

Generally, in cases of acute bronchitis, the fever may last for three to five days. This duration varies depending on each patient's constitution and the severity of their condition, so the timeframe differs for everyone. It is advised not to worry too much. By following the guidance of a doctor and actively carrying out symptomatic treatment, one can manage. If the body temperature exceeds 38.5°C, fever-reducing medications should be taken; otherwise, physical methods of cooling should be used. Drinking plenty of water helps promote excretion. Acute bronchitis typically has a sudden onset, usually accompanied by symptoms such as coughing, expectoration, or chest tightness and breathing difficulties. During such times, it's recommended to follow a doctor’s guidance and possibly use nebulized inhalation for treatment and symptom relief. This may involve inhaling steroids or bronchodilator medications to alleviate symptoms. Additionally, it is important to maintain fresh and flowing air indoors, with appropriate temperature and humidity levels.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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How to manage acute bronchitis

First, it is important to rest in bed during the acute phase, drink plenty of water, keep warm, and the main principle is to control the infection and provide symptomatic treatment. For instance, patients with significant fever and those whose sputum has turned purulent should choose antibiotics early, such as intramuscular penicillin injections or oral co-trimoxazole. Generally, the medication can be stopped 1-3 days after the fever subsides. For symptomatic treatment, antipyretic analgesics such as aspirin can be used to address symptoms like fever, headache, and general fatigue. Regularly, one should strengthen their cold resistance through exercise, it is suggested to wash the face with cold water throughout the year, and to exercise more to boost immune capabilities. Pay attention to environmental hygiene, improve occupational and public health standards. Prevent the inhalation of irritant gases and dust into the respiratory tract. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor based on specific circumstances.)

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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How long does it take for an infusion for acute bronchitis?

The duration of infusion therapy for bronchitis should be determined based on the pathogen causing the infection, the patient's constitution, and specific symptoms; generally, there is no fixed time frame. In normal cases, if immunity is normal, acute bronchitis can be treated with infusion therapy for about seven to ten days, and patients with mild symptoms can fully recover in three to five days. If the patient is frail, has low immunity, or if the medication is not effective against the pathogen, the course of the disease may be longer, requiring up to half a month or even more than twenty days. The specific duration should be decided based on clinical symptoms and the pathogen involved.

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Written by Wang Xiang Yu
Pulmonology
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Does acute bronchitis cause fever?

First, we need to know that acute bronchitis refers to the acute inflammation of the bronchial mucosa caused by biological, physical, chemical stimulation, or allergens. The main symptoms in most patients are cough and expectoration. The cough usually presents as a dry cough or a small amount of viscous sputum. Over time, the amount of sputum may increase, or the cough may worsen. A small proportion of patients may have bloody sputum. The cough and expectoration can last for two to three weeks, and in very rare cases, some patients may develop chronic bronchitis if the condition does not resolve. However, for most patients, the primary manifestations are still localized, that is, symptoms like cough and sputum. Systemic symptoms, such as fever, generally present mildly.

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Written by An Yong Peng
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Is acute bronchitis serious?

Patients with acute bronchitis usually do not experience severe conditions. Acute bronchitis typically presents symptoms of dry cough and is generally self-limiting, usually not leading to severe consequences. However, it is important to note that patients with acute bronchitis may sometimes experience significant chest tightness and wheezing, which can be particularly prominent in children and may even lead to respiratory failure. Additionally, acute bronchitis can sometimes be associated with other conditions, such as bacterial pneumonia. If combined with bacterial pneumonia, it could also lead to severe complications like respiratory failure. In such cases, the patient's condition is relatively severe, and close observation of the condition is necessary.