What is the primary route of tuberculosis transmission?

The primary route of tuberculosis transmission is airborne transmission. This occurs when an individual with active tuberculosis coughs, sneezes, or speaks, releasing fine droplets that contain the bacteria into the air. These droplets can remain suspended in the air and be inhaled by others, leading to the spread of the infection.

Understanding this route is critical because it highlights the need for airborne precautions in healthcare settings to prevent the spread of tuberculosis. Measures such as the use of masks, proper ventilation, and isolation of affected individuals play a vital role in controlling transmission within communities and healthcare environments.

In contrast, the fecal-oral route is typically associated with gastrointestinal infections, bloodborne transmission involves pathogen spread through blood, and vector-borne transmission occurs via organisms like insects. None of these routes are responsible for the transmission of tuberculosis, making airborne transmission the correct and primary route for this infection.