Is Jaundice Contagious or Not?
Find out whether jaundice is contagious and what causes it. Learn the difference between infectious and non-infectious types, and when to seek medical attention.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 21st Jul, 2025
Jaundice is a common condition that causes yellowing of the skin and eyes due to high levels of bilirubin—a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. Many people wonder whether jaundice is contagious, especially when they see someone with yellow skin or eyes. The answer depends on the underlying cause of jaundice.
Understanding Jaundice
Jaundice itself is not a disease but a symptom of an underlying health issue. It occurs when the liver cannot process bilirubin efficiently, leading to its buildup in the body.
Common Causes of Jaundice
1. Liver Diseases: Hepatitis (A, B, C), cirrhosis, or liver damage from alcohol.
2. Blocked Bile Ducts: Gallstones or tumours can block bile flow, increasing bilirubin.
3. Blood Disorders: Conditions like hemolytic anaemia cause excessive red blood cell breakdown.
4. Newborn Jaundice: Common in babies due to an immature liver.
Is Jaundice Contagious?
Jaundice itself is not contagious. However, some underlying conditions causing jaundice can spread from person to person.
Contagious Causes of Jaundice
1. Hepatitis A & E: Spread through contaminated food or water.
2. Hepatitis B & C: Transmitted through blood, unprotected sex, or shared needles.
If jaundice is due to infections like hepatitis, the virus can spread, but the yellowing (jaundice) is just a symptom.
Non-Contagious Causes of Jaundice
Alcohol-related liver disease
Gallstones
Genetic conditions (like Gilbert’s syndrome)
Newborn jaundice
Symptoms of Jaundice
Apart from yellow skin and eyes, watch for:
Dark urine
Pale stools
Fatigue
Abdominal pain
Itchy skin
Fever (if caused by infection)
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How to Prevent Jaundice?
Prevention depends on the cause:
For Contagious Causes (Hepatitis A, B, C, E)
Get vaccinated (Hepatitis A & B vaccines are available).
Drink clean, filtered water.
Avoid sharing needles or personal items like razors.
Practice safe sex.
For Non-Contagious Causes
Limit alcohol to protect your liver.
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Maintain a healthy weight to prevent gallstones.
Get regular health check-ups if you have liver conditions.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical help if you notice:
Persistent yellow skin/eyes
Severe abdominal pain
High fever with jaundice
Unexplained weight loss
Early diagnosis helps in effective treatment.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause:
Hepatitis: Antiviral medications (for Hepatitis B & C).
Gallstones: Surgery may be needed.
Liver damage: Lifestyle changes, medications, or liver transplant in severe cases.
Newborn jaundice: Phototherapy (light treatment) is common.
Conclusion
Jaundice is not contagious, but some infections causing it can spread. Understanding the root cause is key to proper treatment and prevention. If you or a loved one shows signs of jaundice, consult a doctor for accurate diagnosis and care.
If you're experiencing symptoms or need a liver function test, you can book a consultation with Apollo 24|7’s expert doctors. Early detection can make a big difference in recovery!
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
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Dr D M Karthik
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4 Years • MBBS, Fellowship in Diabetes Mellitus, Advance certificate in Diabetes Mellitus, Derma Nutrition Certification
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Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Syed Ismail Ali
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Hyderabad
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Dr. Vasanthasree Nair
General Practitioner
15 Years • MBBS
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Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Kerala, Angamaly
(425+ Patients)
Dr Divya Lekha Gunta
General Practitioner
10 Years • MBBS, MD (Pathology)
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr D M Karthik
General Practitioner
4 Years • MBBS, Fellowship in Diabetes Mellitus, Advance certificate in Diabetes Mellitus, Derma Nutrition Certification
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Syed Ismail Ali
General Practitioner
7 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Vasanthasree Nair
General Practitioner
15 Years • MBBS
Angamaly
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Kerala, Angamaly
(425+ Patients)
Dr Divya Lekha Gunta
General Practitioner
10 Years • MBBS, MD (Pathology)
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
