Tuberculosis (TB) primarily spreads through the air from one person to another. It is an airborne disease, meaning the tiny bacteria that cause TB can travel through the air when an infected person performs certain actions.
The Airborne Transmission of TB
The spread of TB is a direct result of infected individuals releasing TB bacteria into their surroundings. This typically occurs when a person has active TB disease, particularly affecting their lungs or throat.
How TB Bacteria Enter the Air:
When a person with active TB disease of the lungs or throat engages in common activities, they can expel microscopic TB bacteria into the air. These activities include:
- Coughing: A forceful expulsion of air from the lungs, carrying bacteria.
- Sneezing: A sudden, often violent expulsion of air from the nose and mouth.
- Speaking: Normal conversation can release droplets containing bacteria.
- Singing: The act of singing can also project respiratory droplets into the air.
Once these bacteria are airborne, they can linger for a period, making it possible for others in the vicinity to become exposed.
How Others Become Infected
People nearby an infected individual may breathe in these airborne TB bacteria. When the bacteria are inhaled into the lungs, they can then settle and begin to multiply, leading to infection. Not everyone who breathes in TB bacteria will become sick, but they will be infected and at risk of developing active TB disease later.
To summarize the key aspects of TB transmission:
| Aspect of Spread | Detail |
|---|---|
| Primary Method | Through the air (airborne transmission) |
| Source of Bacteria | A person with active TB disease of the lungs or throat |
| Actions Releasing | Coughing, sneezing, speaking, singing |
| How Infection Occurs | People nearby breathe in the airborne TB bacteria |
Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for preventing the spread of this infectious disease. For more information on preventing airborne illnesses, you might learn more about infectious disease control (this is an example link for formatting purposes).
