How are bacteria and viruses mainly transmitted from one person to another?

Bacteria and viruses are primarily transmitted from one person to another through droplet contact. This mode of transmission occurs when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes, releasing tiny droplets that can carry pathogens into the air. When another person inhales these droplets or they land on their mucous membranes, such as the mouth, nose, or eyes, they can become infected. This method is particularly relevant for respiratory infections, including influenza and COVID-19, where close proximity to an infected individual increases the likelihood of transmission.

While consumable food products, insect bites, and surface contact can also be paths of transmission for certain pathogens, they are not the primary routes for the majority of bacterial and viral infections. For example, foodborne illnesses occur through contaminated food, and while surfaces can harbor pathogens, the droplet route remains the most common and direct link for person-to-person spread, especially in crowded or enclosed spaces.