Hi, I am Dr. Atul Kumar Nimawat MS ENT.
Nature of your illnesses
Allergic rhinitis is not contagious.
Pharyngitis/tonsillitis may be viral or bacterial in origin. Transmission typically requires close, repeated contact with respiratory droplets or secretions.
Risk of transmission from a single brief contact
A one-time brief exposure (finger in mouth, then touching baby’s tongue) carries very low risk.
Most pathogens need a sufficient inoculum and generally spread via coughing, sneezing, sharing utensils, or prolonged close contact.
Recommended precautions
Hand hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly before handling your baby.
Mask use: Wear a surgical mask while symptomatic to reduce droplet spread.
Avoid direct oral contact: Refrain from activities like “kiss on the lips” or letting the child share eating utensils.
Next Steps
Observe for any signs of fever, irritability, poor feeding, excessive drooling, or throat discomfort over the next 7–10 days. Most infants, if exposed, will remain asymptomatic or develop only mild, self-limited symptoms.
Health Tips
Fever (>38 °C/100.4 °F)
Refusal to feed or lethargy
Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
Excessive crying suggesting throat pain