How long are you contageous with the common cold?

[DANI!]

I have found references stating that you are most contageous the first three days, but are you still contageous after 8 days if you still have cough spasms.
This has been one of the most severe virulent cases of bronchitis that I have ever had. I feel much better now after 6 days, but still have some strong cough spasms producing mucus.
I am scheduled to care for 3 grandkids, ages 2, 4. & 7, this week starting at day 8 of this disease. Am I still contageous? Their mother is going into the hospital for a scheduled C-section. I am concerned for the mother and for the little ones, should any of them be hit as hard as I and my spouse have been hit this week.

Any thoughts????

 

[Dr Know-It-All]

Sorry to hear how bad you been feeling Luke! This is a real nasty virus going around. I have it too. Day 6 for me! My husband and I have never been hit this hard with a bug before. I have never layed in bed this long. I ran a fever for 5 days, sore throat, body aches, developed a cough. Doc put me on antibiotics as a just in case thing. I thought I had strep but the test came back negative. I am not sure how long we are contagious. I would be a little nervous about babysitting when you have been sick and don't want to pass it on to the little ones. I don't blame you. It's been a few days since you posted. Are you better? Did you end up watching the kids?