Disease Transmission Flashcards
What are pathogens?
Pathogens are microorgansims that cause disease in humans.
How do pathogens cause an infection?
To cause an infection in humans, pathogenic organisms need to get inside the human body.
What are the two types of transmission for infectious diseases?
The two types of transmission for infectious diseases are:
- Direct contact transmission
- Indirect contact transmission
What is direct contact transmission?
Direct contact transmission occurs when an infected person touches or exchanges body fluids with another person.
What are some diseases that can be spread by direct contact?
Some diseases that can be spread by direct contact are:
- chickenpox
- the common cold
- influenza
- hepatitis A
- hepatitis B
- herpes simplex (cold sores)
- measles
What is droplet transmission?
A type of direct contact transmission. Droplet transmission is when an infected person expels droplets of saliva by coughing, sneezing or talking.
What are some diseases that can be spread by droplet transmission?
Some diseases that can be spread by droplet transmission are:
- the common cold
- influenza
- meningitis
