How is Streptococcus pneumoniae primarily transmitted?

Streptococcus pneumoniae is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets or secretions. This bacterium is a common cause of pneumonia and other respiratory infections, and it spreads easily when an infected person coughs or sneezes, releasing droplets into the air. These droplets can then be inhaled by individuals nearby, leading to infection.

While other modes of transmission exist for different pathogens, such as foodborne illnesses or infections caused by surfaces, they do not apply to Streptococcus pneumoniae. Understanding the primary transmission mode is crucial for implementing effective public health strategies to prevent and control infections caused by this bacterium, particularly vaccination and hygiene measures to reduce the spread through respiratory secretions.