This type of infection transmission mainly occurs on dust:

Airborne transmission is characterized by the movement of infectious agents through the air over long distances. This type of transmission occurs when pathogens are carried on dust particles or droplets that can remain suspended in the air for an extended period. This allows the microorganisms to be inhaled by individuals who are far from the source of infection, leading to the spread of diseases. Pathogens such as tuberculosis and certain fungi exemplify infections that can be spread this way, illustrating how airborne transmission plays a critical role in public health and infection control measures.

In contrast, contact transmission involves the transfer of pathogens through direct interaction with an infected individual or contaminated surfaces, which does not primarily involve the air. Droplet transmission typically occurs over shorter distances and requires the expulsion of pathogens through respiratory droplets, which do not remain suspended in the air as dust does. Common vehicle transmission refers to the spread of infectious agents through a shared source, such as contaminated food or water, rather than through airborne particles. Understanding these definitions highlights why airborne transmission is specifically linked to the spread of infections associated with dust particles.