Is tonsillitis contagious?

According to WebMD, individuals with tonsillitis are contagious. Most cases of tonsillitis are caused by infection with viruses or bacteria that are spread by sneezing and coughing. Individuals carrying the bacteria that cause strep throat can be infectious for up to two weeks unless treated with antibiotics.

WebMD explains that tonsillitis is an infection or inflammation of the tonsils, which are located in the back of the throat behind the tongue. The primary symptom of tonsillitis is a sore throat. Most cases of tonsillitis are caused by a viral infection, and there is no specific treatment. Most cases clear up on their own.