How is Mycobacterium tuberculosis primarily transmitted?

How is Mycobacterium tuberculosis primarily transmitted?

• A. Waterborne
• B. Air is transmitted via droplet nuclei from cough, sneeze, speaks, or sings
• C. Bloodborne
• D. Skin contact

Answer: (B)

Tuberculosis spreads through the air by tiny droplet nuclei that are released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or sings. These particles are small enough to stay suspended in air for extended periods and can be inhaled deep into the lungs, where infection begins. This airborne route is why close, enclosed settings with poor ventilation increase risk, and why protection like proper ventilation and respiratory masks matters in healthcare and crowded environments. Waterborne, bloodborne, and skin contact are not typical transmission pathways for TB, so the airborne droplet nuclei explanation best fits the question.

Tuberculosis spreads through the air by tiny droplet nuclei that are released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or sings. These particles are small enough to stay suspended in air for extended periods and can be inhaled deep into the lungs, where infection begins. This airborne route is why close, enclosed settings with poor ventilation increase risk, and why protection like proper ventilation and respiratory masks matters in healthcare and crowded environments. Waterborne, bloodborne, and skin contact are not typical transmission pathways for TB, so the airborne droplet nuclei explanation best fits the question.