No, lupus is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person like a cold or flu. Lupus is an autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues in the body, leading to inflammation and damage. While the exact causes of lupus are not fully understood, it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. It is important to note that while lupus cannot be spread, it is still a serious and complex disease that requires ongoing medical care and management.