In other words, they weren't close enough to catch the bug.
Times, Sunday Times
The other five hopefuls are terrified they'll catch the bug too.
The Sun
Refusing to wrap them up in cotton wool means they rarely buckle when they catch a bug.
The Sun
Fans of the first game will relish the new features and settings; the well-structured first few levels ensure that newcomers can quickly catch the bug too.
Times, Sunday Times
Visitors can't help but catch the bug.
Times, Sunday Times