Ideas in this flowchart

• Indirect person-to-person transmission occurs through pathogens shed into the environment.
• The original host sheds pathogens that later infect another person.
• Pathogens may enter the air, water, food, or objects in the environment.
• Airborne infections are a major form of indirect transmission.
• Coughs and sneezes expel fine water droplets called aerosols.
• The aerosols may contain millions of bacteria or viruses.
• A susceptible person may inhale the aerosol droplets.
• Aerosol droplets may settle on surfaces.
• Pathogens can contaminate hands, utensils, clothing, water, or food.
• Another person may become infected by touching or consuming contaminated items.
• Coughs and sneezes spread diseases.