How can tuberculosis be transmitted?

Tuberculosis (TB) is primarily an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The correct method of transmission for TB is through airborne respiratory droplets. When a person with active TB coughs, sneezes, or talks, they can release tiny droplets into the air that contain the bacteria. Other individuals can then inhale these droplets, potentially leading to infection.

The significance of airborne transmission lies in its effectiveness; it allows the TB bacteria to spread easily in enclosed spaces where people are in close proximity to one another. Unlike other methods of transmission, such as skin contact, contaminated surfaces, or sharing utensils, which may be relevant for other pathogens, the specific nature of TB's spread through the air is what makes it particularly important to address in public health measures and prevention strategies. Understanding this mode of transmission is crucial for controlling and preventing outbreaks of TB, as it emphasizes the need for appropriate ventilation, use of masks, and other protective measures in environments where individuals may be at risk of exposure.