Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Droplet transmission involves the spread of pathogens via respiratory droplets, which are expelled when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can infect others when they come into contact with mucous membranes.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Droplets typically travel less than 1 meter from the source and settle quickly due to gravity.
Common diseases transmitted this way include influenza, common cold, and COVID-19.
Preventive measures include wearing masks and maintaining physical distance.
Droplets are larger than 5 micrometers in diameter.
Transmission occurs primarily through close contact with an infected individual.
Review Questions
Related terms
Airborne Transmission: The spread of pathogens via aerosols that remain infectious over long distances and time periods.
Fomite Transmission: The transfer of pathogens through contact with contaminated inanimate objects.
Vector-borne Transmission: The spread of disease through vectors such as mosquitoes or ticks that carry the pathogen from one host to another.