Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are typically spread via several routes:
- Airborne transmission: This is the most common way LRTIs are spread. When a person with a respiratory infection talks, coughs, or sneezes, they release respiratory droplets into the air. These droplets can contain infectious agents such as viruses or bacteria. If another person inhales these droplets, they may become infected.
- Close contact: If a person is in close contact with someone who has a respiratory infection, they may become infected. This could occur through touching the same surfaces, sharing personal items, or direct physical contact.
- Fomites: The infectious agents causing LRTIs can survive on surfaces for a certain period of time. If a person touches a contaminated surface and then touches their face, especially their mouth or nose, they could get the infection.
- Aspiration: Aspiration occurs when secretions in the mouth or stomach enter the lungs. This is not a common way of spreading infections, but it can occur, particularly in people with difficulty swallowing or a decreased level of consciousness.
Prevention measures include hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette (like covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze), cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, and wearing masks in crowded places or around sick people. Vaccination is also an important measure for preventing certain types of LRTIs, such as influenza or pneumonia.