What is the characteristic of airborne transmission?

The characteristic of airborne transmission is that it occurs when pathogens are suspended in the air. This mode of transmission involves infectious agents that can remain airborne for extended periods, allowing them to be inhaled by individuals who are not in direct contact with an infected person. Common diseases transmitted this way include tuberculosis and measles. The pathogens can travel over distances, which is a key feature that distinguishes airborne transmission from other methods.

In contrast, the other options describe different modes of transmission: contaminated food relates to foodborne illnesses, blood exposure pertains to bloodborne pathogens, and direct contact entails transmission through physical interaction with infected individuals. These distinctions highlight the unique nature of airborne transmission in the realm of infectious diseases.