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How Is Bronchitis Transmitted ?
Bronchitis is a disease of the bronchi that occurs due to an irritant causing swelling in the mucous membranes of the tubes. Consequently, the airway passage narrows down leading to breathing complexities. Bronchitis can be categorized into acute and chronic, depending upon the cause, symptoms and severity of the infection. |
Approximately 90 percent of the cases of acute bronchitis originate from a viral infection, and only about 10 percent are caused by bacteria. Chronic bronchitis occurs in response to constant injury to the air passage by irritants. Smoking cigarettes is the most common reason for this form of bronchitis.
Transmission of bronchitis is mainly a cause of worry in cases of acute bronchitis, where the causal agent is a pathogen. The most widespread mode of transmission of the disease is through air. Bronchitis can be transmitted if an infected individual coughs or sneezes when an uninfected person is in close proximity. In fact, at times even talking to a patient of bronchitis can transmit the infection.
Second mode of transmission could be direct contact with an infected person. A patient normally uses his or her hands to cover the face during a coughing or while sneezing. If the same individual is not hygienic in terms of washing hands regularly, even a friendly or harmless gesture of shaking hands could pose a major risk of contracting the infection.
Thirdly, food and water are the most conducive means of transfer for pathogens such as virus or bacteria. Therefore, sharing food or drinks with a sick person can result in the transmission of infection.
Finally, exposure to cigarette smoke, air pollutants, toxic and industrial fumes can aid in the development of the condition as well.
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How Is Bronchitis Transmitted ?
