Is lupus contagious or hereditary?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Lupus is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person through any type of contact. However, research suggests lupus may have a hereditary component, meaning genetics can play a role in your risk. Having a family member with lupus or another autoimmune condition may increase your likelihood of developing it, though environmental triggers are also key factors.

If you're experiencing symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, or unexplained rashes, don't wait to find answers. Taking a free, instant, online symptom check can help you better understand what may be causing your symptoms and guide your next steps. It's private, takes just a few minutes, and gives you clear, personalized insights—empowering you to have a more informed conversation with your doctor.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover if lupus-like symptoms need care today Learn what may cause your lupus symptoms Find out if it could be lupus Find OTC relief for lupus symptoms Find lupus specialists near you See medically valid home remedies for lupus Understand likely causes of lupus symptoms

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Explanation

Lupus is a condition that affects the immune system. It is important to know that lupus is not contagious, so you cannot catch it from someone else. However, there is a possibility that lupus can run in families, which means it might be hereditary. This suggests that if someone in your family has lupus, you might have a higher chance of having it too.

Understanding lupus can be challenging, and people may have different ideas about it. Some families might not know much about lupus, especially in certain parts of the world. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns about lupus running in your family, you can get personalized insights by taking Ubie's free AI-powered symptom checker to help you better understand your health. It is always a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional if you have questions or concerns—they can provide more information and help you understand what it means for you and your family.

(References)

Iba Ba J, Ouédraogo M, Oliveira YS, Nseng Nseng I, Abo Ekomie A, & Boguikouma JB. (2017). Patients' Families' Perceptions of Lupus in Sub-Saharan .... Medecine et sante tropicales, 29313509.

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