What are the transmission routes of influenza?
Feb 06, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
Influenza refers to the flu. Under normal circumstances, the transmission routes of influenza include droplet transmission, direct contact transmission, airborne transmission, mother-to-child transmission, and fecal-oral transmission. When influenza patients cough, sneeze, or talk, they expel droplets containing the influenza virus, generally within a range of 1-2 meters. When healthy individuals inhale these droplets, the virus may enter the respiratory tract and cause infection.
Influenza refers to the flu. Under normal circumstances, the transmission routes of influenza include droplet transmission, direct contact transmission, airborne transmission, mother-to-child transmission, and fecal-oral transmission. A detailed explanation is as follows:
1. Droplet Transmission
When individuals with influenza cough, sneeze, or speak, they expel droplets containing the influenza virus. These droplets generally travel 1-2 meters. Healthy individuals who inhale these droplets may become infected as the virus enters their respiratory tract.
2. Direct Contact Transmission
Direct contact with individuals who have influenza, such as shaking hands or hugging, can also transmit the virus. If the patient's hands or skin are contaminated with the influenza virus, it may be transmitted to healthy individuals through contact. The virus can then enter the body through broken skin or mucous membranes of the healthy individual.
3. Airborne Transmission
In relatively enclosed, poorly ventilated environments, droplets containing the influenza virus can form aerosols that remain suspended in the air for extended periods. Even individuals who are far away from the patient may inhale these virus-containing aerosols and become infected.
4. Mother-to-Child Transmission
If a pregnant mother contracts influenza, the virus may pass to the fetus through the placenta. Additionally, during childbirth or close postnatal contact between mother and infant, the virus may be transmitted to the newborn.
5. Fecal-Oral Transmission
This mode of transmission is relatively rare but can occur under specific conditions, such as poor hygiene, or when water or food sources become contaminated with the feces of individuals with influenza. Healthy individuals who come into contact with or consume contaminated materials may become infected when the virus enters their body through the mouth.
During high-risk seasons for influenza, appropriate preventive measures should be taken, such as wearing masks, washing hands frequently, and ensuring proper indoor ventilation, which can help reduce the risk of infection.
