What is a characteristic of droplet transmission?

Droplet transmission is characterized by the spread of infectious agents through respiratory droplets that are released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. These droplets typically range in size from 5 microns and larger. Because of their relatively large size, they do not remain suspended in the air for long periods and tend to settle quickly onto surfaces or into the oral or nasal mucosa of nearby individuals. This characteristic is crucial in understanding how certain pathogens are transmitted and highlights the importance of protective measures, such as wearing masks and maintaining appropriate distance from infected individuals, to prevent the spread of disease.

The emphasis on droplet size helps differentiate this mode of transmission from other forms, such as airborne transmission, which involves much smaller particles that can remain airborne for extended periods. Therefore, recognizing the size of the particles involved in droplet transmission is essential for implementing appropriate infection control measures in healthcare settings.