Is UTI contagious?

Question

Hi doctor,

A few days ago I was diagnosed with UTI infection. I was put on antibiotics, and the ER doctor sent my urine for a culture. My doctor told me that Klebsiella pneumoniae is present in my urine culture and referred me to a specialist. What does it mean?

I am 23 years old and sexually active. Will this bacteria cause harm? This year I have had about four UTIs, which is not normal for me. I am done taking the course of antibiotics. I was given a five-day course.

Could this be because the antibiotics are not treating it? Is this curable? Is it contagious? Should I stay away from sexual activity? I am trying to get pregnant. Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

UTI - urinary tract infection caused by Klebsiella takes longer to get treated. But, once cleared it should not come back.

Recurrent UTI could be due to kidney stones, diabetes, dehydration, involvement of upper urinary tract, frequent sexual encounters, etc.

I would suggest you carry out ultrasound examination of your abdomen to rule out upper UTI, fasting blood glucose levels to rule out diabetes and carry out culture sensitivity of the organism.

Antibiotics will surely clear your infection.

It is not contagious but can occur in the sexually active individual due to more chances of mucosal injury.

I would advise you take a good quantity of water: Ensure water intake of 2 to 3 liters per day. It will provide a good output of urine. The high output will clear urine infection by flushing action.

For further infection consult an internal medicine physician online.