How is measles primarily transmitted?

How is measles primarily transmitted?

• A. Direct skin contact
• B. Contaminated water
• C. Blood transfusion
• D. Airborne droplets

Answer: (D)

Measles spreads primarily through the air via respiratory droplets and tiny suspended aerosols. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks, they release particles that can be inhaled by others, allowing the virus to reach the respiratory tract. These particles can remain in the air for hours, especially in enclosed spaces, which is why airborne transmission is the main route. Other routes like direct skin contact, contaminated water, or blood transfusion are not how measles typically spreads. This airborne nature is why vaccination is so important and why infection control relies on measures that limit airborne spread.

Measles spreads primarily through the air via respiratory droplets and tiny suspended aerosols. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks, they release particles that can be inhaled by others, allowing the virus to reach the respiratory tract. These particles can remain in the air for hours, especially in enclosed spaces, which is why airborne transmission is the main route. Other routes like direct skin contact, contaminated water, or blood transfusion are not how measles typically spreads. This airborne nature is why vaccination is so important and why infection control relies on measures that limit airborne spread.