Respiratory droplets
Definition
Respiratory droplets are tiny liquid particles that are expelled from the respiratory system when a person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. These droplets can contain infectious pathogens such as bacteria or viruses.
Related terms
Airborne transmission: This term refers to the spread of infectious diseases through small particles that remain suspended in the air for long periods.
Droplet precautions: These are infection control measures taken to prevent the transmission of diseases through respiratory droplets.
Sneeze etiquette: This refers to practices like covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze to prevent respiratory droplets from spreading.
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