Cystic fibrosis is a chronic genetic condition that causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in your lungs. This often leads to frequent respiratory infections and gastrointestinal (GI) problems.

Healthcare organizations like the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) advise two people with cystic fibrosis to avoid being together in the same room.

According to the NHS, people with cystic fibrosis have a higher risk of receiving a further infection or developing respiratory complications, such as worsened lung function.

If you have cystic fibrosis, this could make having a physical relationship with another person with the condition difficult.

If two people with cystic fibrosis have to be in the same room, the CFF recommends maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet (1.8 meters) apart.

Infectious germ particles could travel up to 6 feet if you cough or sneeze. This means you could spread the virus to someone within that range because the germs may land in their mouth, nose, or eyes.

Germs can also land on surfaces, so they may be spread to someone who touches a surface with the virus and then touches their mouth, nose, or eyes.

Healthcare professionals recommend not touching, which includes kissing, hugging, or shaking hands.

Connecting with others if you’re living with cystic fibrosis may feel challenging.

However, developing relationships with others who have the condition could help you connect with others who understand the challenges cystic fibrosis may pose.

The CFF has developed a range of online platforms and communities to help people with cystic fibrosis connect with others. These include:

You can also try connecting with others through social media platforms and looking for other discussion forums, resources, and communities online.

Consider speaking with a healthcare professional if you have cystic fibrosis and want to connect with others with the condition. They could recommend other ways for you to connect with people in your community.