airborne pathogens

Airborne pathogens are disease-causing microorganisms that spread through the air—bacteria, viruses, or fungal spores suspended in respiratory droplets or dust particles.

They transmit when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes, and others inhale the contaminated air: Airborne pathogens like measles and tuberculosis require special ventilation protocols.

The term gained widespread use during the COVID-19 pandemic.