When someone starts antibiotics for this illness, they usually stop being contagious within 24 hours. Before that, they can easily spread the infection through respiratory droplets or direct contact. The incubation period—the time from exposure to the first signs of illness—typically ranges from 4 to 6 days, though it can be anywhere between 2 and 12 days in some cases.
For protecting family members, it’s important to isolate the sick person until they have been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours and their fever has subsided. Keep them in a separate room if possible, avoid sharing utensils or towels, and practice frequent handwashing. Surfaces they touch should be cleaned regularly. Family members who haven’t had the illness may also need to be monitored for symptoms or, in some cases, receive preventive medication if recommended by a doctor.