What defines an airborne disease?

An airborne disease is defined by the method through which it spreads, specifically by droplets containing pathogens that are expelled into the air from an infected individual. This transmission can occur when someone coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes, releasing tiny droplets that can be inhaled by others nearby. This mode of transmission highlights the contagious nature of airborne diseases, making them a significant concern in public health. Understanding how airborne diseases spread is crucial for implementing appropriate precautions to limit their transmission, such as maintaining physical distance, wearing masks, and ensuring proper ventilation in enclosed spaces.

Other options refer to different types of transmission or treatment methods but do not accurately define what constitutes an airborne disease. For instance, transmitting through contaminated food relates to foodborne illnesses, while touch and contact pertain to diseases that spread via direct or indirect contact, such as many viral infections. Lastly, the mention of treatment solely by medication does not capture the essence of how airborne diseases are transmitted and does not encompass all potential treatment options, which may include vaccines or other preventive measures.