From the Guidelines
Tuberculosis is an example of an airborne infection. This means that the bacteria causing tuberculosis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, can spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings, releasing tiny droplet nuclei containing the bacteria. These particles can remain suspended in the air for several hours and can be inhaled by others, potentially causing infection. Unlike droplet infections which typically travel only short distances and fall quickly to the ground, or contact infections which require direct physical contact with an infected person or contaminated surface, tuberculosis bacteria can travel on air currents and infect people who have not had direct contact with the infected individual.
The most recent and highest quality study, 1, supports this classification, as it emphasizes that anyone who breathes air containing viable tubercle bacilli is at risk for acquiring M. tuberculosis infection. This study highlights the importance of special infection-control practices and procedures to prevent the spread of disease and maintain the best possible care for patients.
Key characteristics of airborne infections, such as tuberculosis, include:
- The ability of the bacteria to remain suspended in the air for extended periods
- The potential for the bacteria to travel on air currents and infect people who have not had direct contact with the infected individual
- The increased risk of transmission in crowded, poorly ventilated settings
- The need for respiratory isolation precautions to prevent the spread of the disease in healthcare settings, as recommended by 1.
Overall, the evidence from 1, 1, 1, 1, and 1 consistently supports the classification of tuberculosis as an airborne infection, emphasizing the importance of preventing the generation and spread of infectious airborne particles to control the transmission of the disease.
From the Research
Types of Infections
- Tuberculosis can be classified as one of the following types of infections:
- Airborne infection: Tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which can be spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks 2, 3.
- Droplet infection: Although tuberculosis can be spread through droplets, it is not the primary mode of transmission 2, 3.
- Contact infection: Tuberculosis is not typically spread through contact with an infected person's skin or other body fluids 2, 3.
- Special contact infections: This category is not directly relevant to tuberculosis transmission 2, 3.
Key Characteristics of Tuberculosis
- Tuberculosis is a leading cause of death globally, with airborne transmission being the primary mode of spread 2, 3.
- The risk of progression to disease is higher in people with certain risk factors, such as undernourishment, immunosuppression, or those who smoke, drink alcohol, or have diabetes 2.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing tuberculosis, with comprehensive, person-centered care being essential for successful treatment 2.