Direct contact transmission

Definition

Direct contact transmission involves the immediate transfer of infectious agents through physical contact with an infected individual or their bodily fluids. This mode bypasses intermediate objects or vectors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Direct contact transmission can occur through skin-to-skin contact, kissing, or sexual intercourse.
2. Common diseases transmitted this way include herpes simplex virus, HIV, and certain types of influenza.
3. Healthcare workers are at high risk for direct contact transmission if proper protective measures are not taken.
4. Hand hygiene is a crucial preventive measure to reduce the risk of direct contact transmission.
5. Direct contact does not involve airborne particles; it requires physical touch.

Review Questions

• What are some common diseases transmitted through direct contact?
• How can healthcare workers minimize their risk of direct contact transmission?
• Why is hand hygiene important in preventing direct contact transmission?

Related terms

Indirect Contact Transmission: Transmission occurs via contaminated objects or surfaces rather than direct human-to-human touch.

Droplet Transmission: Involves the spread of pathogens via respiratory droplets expelled during coughing or sneezing.

Vector-Borne Transmission: Disease spread through carriers like mosquitoes, ticks, or fleas.