Infections: Modes of Transmission

1) Droplet Transmission -This is droplets containing microorganisms that are

propelled a short distance through the air and deposited on a susceptible
individual’s eyes, nasal mucosa, or mouth. Examples include: Coughing, sneezing,
popping of specimen container tops.
2) Airborne transmission - Occurs by the dissemination of either micro-droplets or

droplets that have evaporated and still contain microorganisms. Unlike the droplets

in number 1, these droplets remains suspended in the air for long periods of time.

Thus, infectious agents carried in this manner can be dispersed by air currents and

be inhaled by a susceptible individual in close proximity. Examples are TB, fungus,

or some viruses.

3) Contact transmission may be direct or indirect.

A) Direct is transmitted from one individual to another. This is direct

body membrane to body membrane. Examples STD, Staph infections,

and hand-shaking.

B) Indirect is contact with inanimate objects. Examples include: blood

collection tubes, telephones, pens or pencils, and needle sticks.

4) Vehicle transmission - Microorganisms transmitted by contaminated items such as

food, water, or medications. Salmonellosis, Shigellosis, HAV, and Hemorrhagic E.

coli.

5) Vector borne transmission - occurs when an arthropod, referred to as a vector,

transfer an organism. Examples include: malaria, encephalitis, Lyme Disease, and

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.