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Sarah Mitchell — Reviewed writer, former magazine editor

Approved Guide

How to Handle Tell when You Are Contagious Step by Step

When tell when you are contagious leaves you confused, worried, or unsure what it means, a clear step-by-step approach can help you sort the signal from the stress. This guide explains how to understand the situation, reflect on what matters, choose a practical next step, and know when to ask for trusted support.

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Part 1

Identifying the Symptoms of a Contagious Illnesses

Take your temperature.

Use an accurate thermometer to measure your body temperature. A fever is usually above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).

Fever can be a sign of illness.
A fever can be a symptom of many illnesses, including the flu and common colds.
If you have a fever, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
Use an accurate thermometer to measure your body temperature.
A fever is usually above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).

Examine your mucus and nasal secretions.

Look at your mucus and nasal secretions to see if they are thick, yellow or green. These can be signs of an infection.

Thick, yellow or green mucus can indicate a bacterial infection.
Clear mucus may indicate a viral infection.
If you notice any unusual changes in your mucus, consult with your doctor.
Look at your mucus and nasal secretions to see if they are thick, yellow or green.
These can be signs of an infection.

Look for a skin rash.

Check yourself for a skin rash. Some illnesses can cause rashes on the body.

A skin rash can be a sign of an allergic reaction or infection.
Some illnesses, such as chickenpox, can cause a widespread rash.
If you have a rash, consult with your doctor to determine the cause.
Check yourself for a skin rash.
Some illnesses can cause rashes on the body.

Watch for diarrhea, accompanied by a slight fever.

Check if you are experiencing diarrhea. Diarrhea can be a sign of an infection.

Diarrhea can be a symptom of many illnesses, including food poisoning and viral infections.
If you have diarrhea, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
Consult with your doctor if diarrhea persists or worsens.
Check if you are experiencing diarrhea.
Diarrhea can be a sign of an infection.

Look for pain behind the forehead, cheeks and across the nose.

Check if you are experiencing pain behind your forehead, cheeks, and across your nose. This can be a sign of sinus pressure.

Pain in these areas can indicate sinus pressure or an infection.
If you experience pain in these areas, consult with your doctor to determine the cause.
Over-the-counter pain relievers may help alleviate symptoms.
Check if you are experiencing pain behind your forehead, cheeks, and across your nose.
This can be a sign of sinus pressure.

Notice if your sore throat is accompanied by a runny nose.

Check if you have a sore throat. A sore throat can be a sign of an infection.

A sore throat can be a symptom of many illnesses, including the flu and common colds.
If you have a sore throat, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
Consult with your doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
Check if you have a sore throat.
A sore throat can be a sign of an infection.

Pay attention to feelings of sleepiness and a loss of appetite.

Check if you are feeling tired or experiencing a loss of appetite. These can be signs of an infection.

Fatigue can be a symptom of many illnesses, including the flu and common colds.
A loss of appetite can indicate that your body is fighting off an infection.
If you experience these symptoms, consult with your doctor to determine the cause.
Check if you are feeling tired or experiencing a loss of appetite.
These can be signs of an infection.

Part 2

Method

Practice Good Hygiene

Maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness to reduce the risk of transmission.

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces regularly.

Take Medication as Prescribed

Follow your doctor's instructions for medication to help manage symptoms.

Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat bacterial infections.
Pain relievers can help alleviate headaches and body aches.
Over-the-counter medications should only be used as directed.
Always follow your doctor's instructions for dosage and duration of treatment.
Never stop taking medication without consulting your doctor first.

Seek Medical Attention if Necessary

Visit a doctor or healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen.

Contact your primary care physician for an appointment.
Visit the emergency room if you experience severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing.
Don't hesitate to seek medical attention if you're unsure about your condition.
Get tested for COVID-19 or other infectious diseases if necessary.
Stay informed about local health guidelines and recommendations.

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References

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