Infection Transmission
Infection Transmission: How it Occurs and What You Can Do
Infection transmission can occur in many different forms and via several routes. The most common types of infection transmission are through direct contact, indirect contact, or through airborne particles. It is important to be aware of how infection is spread so that you can take steps to reduce your risk of becoming infected.
Direct Contact
This is the most common form of infection transmission and occurs through direct physical contact with an infected person. This includes activities like hugging, shaking hands, sharing utensils or drinking from the same cup, sexual contact, and touching contaminated surfaces.
Indirect Contact
Infection can also be transmitted indirectly, through contact with an infected person's bodily fluids such as saliva, mucus, blood, or other secretions. This can be via shared food, improper disposal of needles, or other forms of contact with the infected person's body.
Airborne Particles
Airborne particles are small and lightweight enough to stay aloft in the air, meaning they can travel a far distance in a short amount of time. Diseases such as the flu, chickenpox, mumps, and the common cold spread through this means; when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or even breathes out, they can spread tiny particles that can be inhaled by another person.
Reducing Risk of Infection Transmission
The best way to reduce the risk of infection transmission is to practice good hygiene and avoid close contact with anyone who may be ill. Some ways to practice good hygiene include:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as eating utensils.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly.
- Stay home if you’re sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.
These simple measures can help reduce the risk of infection transmission and can go a long way towards keeping you and your loved ones healthy.