Is Eczema Contagious? Essential Facts About Its Spread and Prevention

Eczema is a non-contagious skin condition, meaning it cannot be passed from person to person. Nevertheless, some complications arising from eczema, such as infections, may be contagious.

This chronic inflammatory skin disorder often results in dry, itchy, and discolored patches. According to the National Eczema Association, nearly 32 million Americans are affected.

Many mistakenly believe eczema can be transmitted through contact. However, even with active rashes, eczema does not spread via hugging, sneezing, or sexual contact.

That said, secondary infections developing from eczema can be contagious.

Research indicates eczema has a genetic basis, meaning it can be inherited from parents. Importantly, inheritance is distinct from contagious transmission.

Continue reading to understand contagious eczema-related infections and how to manage them.

How Does Eczema Become Infected?

Eczema compromises the skin's protective barrier, which normally guards against irritants and retains moisture.

This weakening leads to dry, itchy skin prone to cracking, either spontaneously or from scratching. Such breaches increase vulnerability to infections by creating entry points.

The most frequent secondary infection is caused by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), a bacteria naturally found on the skin that can invade through cracks.

Other infections linked to eczema include:

• Viral infections like herpes simplex virus
• Bacterial infections such as impetigo, cellulitis, and other Staphylococcus strains
• Fungal infections including Candida

Secondary infections can spread through close contact like handshakes, hugs, or kissing. Rarely, herpes simplex virus may cause eczema herpeticum, a contagious complication.

Signs of infected eczema include:

• Spreading redness or discoloration around the rash
• Blisters that ooze, crack, or form crusts
• Pain and intense itching
• Clear or yellow discharge

Cover any weeping blisters and consult a healthcare provider promptly for appropriate treatment.

Discover more about identifying, treating, and preventing infected eczema.

Can Eczema Be Inherited?

While the exact cause remains unclear, studies suggest up to 75% of eczema cases have a hereditary component.

Inheritance involves passing genetic information from parents to offspring and is not the same as contagious transmission.

Multiple genetic mutations impacting the skin barrier or immune response have been linked to eczema, with the filaggrin (FLG) gene being notably significant.

Explore further insights into the genetics of eczema.

How to Prevent Eczema Infections

Though not all eczema infections are avoidable, several strategies can significantly lower the risk.

Maintaining skin integrity by preventing cracks and open wounds is crucial. This includes consistent moisturizing and resisting scratching, which can be challenging.

Helpful prevention tips include:

• Engaging your hands with activities like gardening, crafts, or playing instruments
• Applying moisturizer regularly, especially within three minutes after bathing
• Taking soothing oatmeal baths
• Staying well-hydrated
• Using compresses or wet wraps on affected areas
• Following your prescribed eczema treatment regimen
• Avoiding triggers such as fragranced detergents or irritating fabrics

Keep any blisters covered to reduce infection risk.

Learn more about preventing eczema flare-ups and maintaining healthy skin.

Summary

Eczema is a chronic skin condition characterized by itchy, dry patches and is not contagious. However, broken skin from eczema increases susceptibility to contagious infections.

Protecting open wounds and cracked skin areas is essential to minimize infection risks.

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