People with COVID-19 are generally contagious starting about 1 to 2 days before symptoms begin and remain contagious for about 8 to 10 days after symptom onset
. A 2023 study found that most people are most contagious around day four of symptoms, after which contagiousness gradually decreases
. The contagious period can vary depending on factors such as symptom severity and immune system status. Those with mild to moderate symptoms are typically contagious for about 5 to 7 days, while people with severe symptoms or weakened immune systems may remain contagious for up to 20 days
. Asymptomatic individuals can still spread the virus but tend to be less contagious
. In summary:
- Contagious starting 1-2 days before symptoms
- Peak contagiousness around day 4 of symptoms
- Average contagious period about 8 days, up to 10 days
- Mild/moderate cases: ~5-7 days contagious
- Severe/immune-compromised cases: up to 20 days contagious
- Asymptomatic spread possible but less contagious
This timeline applies to COVID-19 in 2023 and reflects findings including those related to the Omicron variant and vaccinated individuals
