<P> The term strictly refers to the transmission of microorganisms directly from one individual to another by one or more of the following means: </P> <Ul> <Li> droplet contact--coughing or sneezing on another individual </Li> <Li> direct physical contact--touching an infected individual, including sexual contact </Li> <Li> indirect physical contact--usually by touching a contaminated surface, including soil (fomite) </Li> <Li> airborne transmission--if the microorganism can remain in the air for long periods </Li> <Li> fecal - oral transmission--usually from unwashed hands, contaminated food or water sources due to lack of sanitation and hygiene, an important transmission route in pediatrics, veterinary medicine and developing countries . </Li> </Ul> <Li> droplet contact--coughing or sneezing on another individual </Li> <Li> direct physical contact--touching an infected individual, including sexual contact </Li>

Direct route of transmission of a communicable disease