Is My Sinus Infection Contagious?

Posted on by Collin County ENT

It’s never fun when an illness threatens to stop you from going to a fun event in Plano with your friends or family. Your first thought when you start to feel sick might be that you’re worried you’re going to get other people at the event sick, or that they’re going to get you sick. With sinus infections, deciding whether your symptoms are contagious is extra tricky.

Separating Sinus Infections from Contagious Infections

Young woman sneezing into a tissue at home.

A sinus infection isn’t technically contagious. The term “sinus infection” or “sinusitis” describes an inflammation of the sinuses that causes congestion, sneezing and facial pressure.  However, the underlying cause of your sinus infection, like a cold or flu, could be contagious.

While they’re most contagious in the first few days, colds can spread for up to two weeks[1] and flu for up to three to four days from the start of your illness.[2] If your sinus infection arises a few weeks after a cold or flu, you aren’t likely to still be contagious.

Sinus infections resulting from noncontagious conditions like allergies, asthma, a deviated septum or nasal polyps aren’t ever contagious.

Preventing the Spread of Illness

If a sinus infection follows a cold or flu, limit your time around others until you’re sure you’re no longer contagious. If you’ve recently been around people or are planning to attend an event, let other attendees know so they can monitor their own health.

When To Seek ENT Help

If you have recurring or long-lasting sinus infections, it’s possible you have another condition contributing to them that requires ENT attention. Our specialists at Collin County ENT can examine your sinuses and offer a treatment plan to correct the underlying issue and reduce the frequency and severity of your sinus infections. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

[1] Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Common cold. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12342-common-cold

[2] Cleveland Clinic. (2022). Influenza (flu). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4335-influenza-flu