The silent threat you never saw coming—croup is contagious and more common

Sun, 03 May 2026 04:28:08 +0000

The Silent Threat You Never Saw Coming: Croup Is Contagious and More Common Than You Think Croup is one of the most common childhood respiratory illnesses, but many parents remain unprepared for its sudden onset and contagious nature. Often dismissed as a simple barking cough, croup can be more than just a nuisance—it’s a contagious infection that spreads easily and may catch families off guard. Understanding croup’s contagiousness and recognizing early symptoms is key to protecting your child and preventing outbreaks. ### What Exactly Is Croup? Croup, medically known as laryngotracheobronchitis, is a viral infection that inflames the upper airway, causing a distinctive barking cough, stridor (a high-pitched breathing sound), and hoarseness. It primarily affects children ages 3 to 5, though older kids and adults can rarely catch it. Croup stems mainly from viruses such as parainfluenza, which is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected child coughs or sneezes.