Eczema, commonly referred to as Atopic Dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition resulting in patches of dryness, severe itching, and inflammation. Despite the visible changes and discomfort it causes, eczema is not contagious. It cannot be spread from one person to another through casual or direct physical contact because the skin changes are a result of internal processes, not an infectious agent.
Why Eczema Is Not Contagious
Eczema is fundamentally an immune-mediated condition, not one caused by a virus, bacterium, or fungus. It arises from a complex interaction between a person’s genetic makeup and environmental factors. Many people with eczema have a genetic predisposition, often involving mutations in the filaggrin gene, which helps maintain the skin’s outer layer.
This genetic difference results in a compromised skin barrier, sometimes described as “leaky,” which allows moisture to escape and irritants to enter more easily. The immune system then overreacts to these environmental triggers, leading to the inflammation seen during a flare. The inflammation, dryness, and rash associated with eczema are internal manifestations of immune system dysfunction, not an infection that can be transmitted.
Safe Physical Interaction and Contact
Since eczema is not caused by a transmissible pathogen, there is no risk of catching it through physical contact. Activities like hugging, holding hands, or sharing personal items with someone experiencing an eczema flare-up are completely safe. The visible signs of eczema, while sometimes alarming, do not contain the elements necessary for person-to-person transmission.
The triggers that cause an eczema flare are typically internal or environmental, not infectious. Common triggers include harsh soaps and detergents, synthetic fabrics, allergens like pollen or pet dander, and changes in temperature or humidity. These factors only provoke a reaction in the individual with the pre-existing compromised skin barrier. The triggers are not passed through casual touch, making normal social interaction safe.
Addressing Secondary Skin Infections
The confusion surrounding contagiousness often stems from the fact that compromised eczematous skin is highly vulnerable to secondary infections. The constant cycle of dryness and scratching creates tiny breaks in the skin barrier, allowing microorganisms to penetrate and cause an infection. While the underlying eczema remains non-contagious, these secondary infections can sometimes be passed on through direct contact.
A common secondary issue is a bacterial infection, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus, which can develop into impetigo. Signs that an eczema patch has become infected include weeping or oozing clear or yellow fluid, crusting over the rash, and increased pain or warmth in the area. Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection that can be spread by touching the fluid from the sores.
Another severe complication is Eczema Herpeticum, a potentially serious viral infection caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). This infection is characterized by clusters of small, painful, fluid-filled blisters that can spread rapidly across the skin. Eczema Herpeticum is contagious and requires urgent medical attention, often accompanied by general symptoms like fever and feeling unwell.
The key distinction is that a person does not catch eczema, but rather the broken skin barrier makes them susceptible to catching a separate, transmissible infection. Managing the underlying eczema is the best defense against these complications, as keeping the skin barrier intact prevents the entry of bacteria and viruses. If an infection is suspected, covering the affected area and seeking treatment helps prevent transmission to others while treating the individual.