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Cedars-Sinai Blog

Am I Still Contagious?

sick, cold, illness, contagious

First things first: Do you have a cold or the flu?



When can I go back to work or school?


The contagious period for the flu can last as long as 5-7 days from when you first felt sick.


An ounce of prevention


Dr. Jonathan Grein, Cedars-Sinai’s director of hospital epidemiology, suggests taking extra precautions to protect your family at home. To help prevent the spread of illness, it is important to wash your hands, eating utensils, and linens frequently and thoroughly. You should also avoid touching doorknobs directly and wear a face mask if you’re coughing or sneezing.

Dr. Grein also recommends covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, cleaning your hands often with soap and warm water or an alcohol-based hand rub, and avoiding touching your face as much as possible.

Headshot for Jonathan D. Grein, MD

Jonathan D. Grein, MD

IM Infectious Diseases

Jonathan D. Grein, MD

IM Infectious Diseases
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