My mother-in-law has been diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. Is this illness contagious to family members?
Dec 12, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is caused by prions and primarily spreads through contact with central nervous system tissues of infected individuals, such as brain or spinal cord tissue, or via contaminated medical instruments. The risk of infection during daily cohabitation—such as sharing utensils, casual conversation, or hugging—is extremely low if there is no contact with the patient's bodily fluids (e.g., blood, cerebrospinal fluid) or contaminated objects; therefore, excessive concern is unnecessary.
Under normal circumstances, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is generally not transmitted to family members through everyday contact. However, there is an extremely low risk of infection when coming into contact with the patient's bodily fluids, tissues, or contaminated items. If concerned, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional in advance. The detailed analysis is as follows:
CJD is caused by prions and primarily spreads through exposure to the patient’s brain tissue, spinal cord, or other central nervous system tissues, or via contaminated medical instruments. In daily household settings—such as sharing utensils, talking, or hugging—there is an extremely low risk of transmission if there is no contact with the patient’s bodily fluids (e.g., blood, cerebrospinal fluid) or contaminated objects; therefore, excessive concern is unnecessary.
If caregivers have broken skin and come into direct contact with the patient’s bodily fluids, wound exudates, or contaminated clothing and bed linens that are not promptly cleaned and disinfected, there is an extremely low possibility that prions could enter the body through the damaged skin. However, such situations are rare in home care and require specific exposure conditions.
When caring for a patient, avoid direct skin contact with their bodily fluids. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and running water immediately after any contact. The patient’s clothes and personal items should be washed and disinfected separately. If any physical discomfort occurs, inform the doctor promptly about the relevant exposure history.
