Droplet transmission

Droplet transmission is a mode of transmission of a pathogen causing infectious disease between an infected individual and a susceptible individual, that occurs when the infected individual coughs, sneezes, talks or exhales, releasing droplets of saliva or mucus into the air which are then inhaled by the susceptible individual.

Mechanism

Droplet transmission involves the spread of microorganisms enclosed in large droplets (>5 µm in diameter) that are expelled by an infected individual and then inhaled by a susceptible individual. These droplets can travel a distance of up to 1 meter. The droplets can also land on surfaces and then be touched by a susceptible individual who then touches their face, leading to infection.

Diseases

Diseases that are commonly spread through droplet transmission include Influenza, SARS, MERS, COVID-19, and Whooping cough.

Prevention

Prevention of droplet transmission can be achieved through a variety of measures including hand hygiene, respiratory hygiene, cough etiquette, and the use of personal protective equipment such as masks and respirators.

See also

• Airborne transmission
• Fomite transmission
• Vector-borne disease
• Zoonosis

References

Droplet transmission Resources
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