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November 22, 2009 SEARCH drSpock 
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Dr. Lynn Cates
Specializing in pediatric infectious diseases and childhood immunizations.
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Ask Dr. Cates

Is croup contagious?
QUESTION
Dear Dr. Cates,
My child has a bad case of croup. Is it contagious, and if so, how is it spread?

— DEE in RONKONKOMA, NY

ANSWER
October 9, 2000
Dear Dee,
Most cases of croup are caused by viruses, so it's a good bet that your child's croup is contagious. The most common cause is the parainfluenza virus, but other viruses including influenza can cause croup. It can be contagious from a few days before symptoms start until several days after the child gets well. They can be spread by direct contact or by exposure to respiratory secretions (for instance, coughing and sneezing).

— by Lynn Cates, M.D., F.A.A.P.

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