Are patients with bronchiectasis contagious?

Quick Fact

Bronchiectasis is more common in women than in men.
Source: American Lung Association

No. Bronchiectasis is not communicable (contagious) because it is a disease characterized by the abnormal physical structure of the lungs.

Some infectious diseases associated with bronchiectasis are communicable. In the case of NTM, which is not generally considered communicable, extra precautions are recommended for people with CF or a suppressed immune system.

Patients with bronchiectasis are considered at higher risk for infection and face notably more complications and difficulty clearing infections.