Infections are contagious diseases that can spread quickly from person to person, or from animals to humans. The simplest way for infections to spread is through contact with an infected person or object. The germs that cause infections can be passed from one person to another through direct contact, such as touching or shaking hands, or through indirect contact, such as sharing eating utensils or coming into contact with a contaminated surface.
Direct Contact
Direct contact is the most common and efficient way for infections to spread. Viruses and bacteria can be passed from one person to another through physical contact, such as shaking hands, hugging, or kissing. These germs can also be spread through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as saliva, mucus, blood, and other secretions. This type of transmission is especially common among people who live in close proximity, such as family members, friends, or coworkers.
Indirect Contact
Infections can also be spread through indirect contact, which is when an infected person or object comes into contact with a non-infected person or object. This type of transmission is often referred to as “fomite transmission.” Common fomites include doorknobs, toys, and other objects that are frequently touched by multiple people. The germs that cause infections can survive on these objects for a short period of time and be passed from one person to another.
Airborne Transmission
In some cases, infections can also be spread through the air, which is known as airborne transmission. This type of transmission is most likely to occur when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing droplets of saliva or mucus into the air. These droplets can travel through the air and be breathed in by other people, potentially infecting them. Airborne transmission is especially common with certain types of respiratory infections, such as the flu.