What are the transmission routes of influenza?

Influenza refers to the flu. Generally, transmission routes of influenza include airborne transmission, mother-to-child transmission, fecal-oral transmission, iatrogenic transmission, and direct contact transmission. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Airborne Transmission

In relatively enclosed and poorly ventilated spaces, healthy individuals may become infected by inhaling aerosols containing the influenza virus exhaled by patients.

2. Mother-to-Child Transmission

If a pregnant mother becomes infected with influenza, the influenza virus may directly transmit to the fetus. Due to the close physiological connection between mother and child, and the underdeveloped immune systems of fetuses and infants, they are more susceptible to infection.

3. Fecal-Oral Transmission

This is relatively rare, but under conditions of poor hygiene, if the feces of an influenza patient contain the influenza virus and contaminate water or food sources, healthy individuals may become infected after consuming these contaminated items, as the virus enters the gastrointestinal tract through the mouth.

4. Iatrogenic Transmission

In medical institutions, if medical instruments are not thoroughly disinfected and become contaminated with the influenza virus, the virus may be transmitted to subsequent patients when these instruments are used. Healthcare workers are also at risk of infection during diagnosis and treatment.

5. Direct Contact Transmission

Physical contact with an influenza patient, such as shaking hands or hugging, can transfer the influenza virus from the patient to a healthy individual, allowing direct entry into bodily tissues.

In daily life, it is important to maintain personal hygiene, wash hands frequently, and avoid sharing eating utensils, towels, and other personal items with others to reduce the risk of influenza virus transmission.