Is body odor contagious?
May 15, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Introduction
Body odor, commonly known as bromhidrosis, is generally not contagious. If you experience bromhidrosis, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Although the condition is not transmissible, it may cause psychological and social stress for the affected individual. Therefore, patients with severe symptoms should consult a healthcare professional for targeted treatment to improve their quality of life.
Body odor, commonly known as bromhidrosis, is generally not contagious. If experiencing bromhidrosis, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. The specific analysis is as follows:
Bromhidrosis primarily results from overactive apocrine glands in areas such as the armpits. The sweat secreted by these glands is broken down by bacteria on the skin, producing a distinctive odor. This condition does not involve infectious pathogens such as bacteria or viruses, and therefore cannot be transmitted to others through direct contact or airborne routes. In contrast, infectious diseases are caused by specific pathogens—including bacteria and viruses—that can spread from person to person through various transmission routes. Since bromhidrosis does not involve such pathogens, it is not contagious.
Although bromhidrosis is not contagious, it may cause psychological distress and social discomfort for affected individuals. Therefore, patients with severe symptoms are encouraged to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment to improve their quality of life.
