Chain of Transmission
There are six key areas that comprise the chain of transmission for infection across a population. The fact sheet pdf linked at the bottom of this page provides a visual description their interaction.
Infectious Agent
- Bacteria
- Fungi
- Viruses
- Parasites
- Prions
Reservoirs
- People
- Water
- Food
Portals of Exit
- Blood
- Secretions
- Excretions
- Skin
Modes of Transmission
- Contact
- Droplet
- Airborne
Portals of Entry
- Mucous membranes
- Respiratory
- Gastrointestinal (GI)
- Broken skin
Susceptible Host
- Immunosuppression
- Diabetes
- Burns
- Surgery
- Age
Adapted from Routine Practices and Additional Precautions In All Health Care Settings, PIDAC, Ontario Agency for Health Protection and Promotion, July 2011, by the CD Program, Hastings Prince Edward Public Health, March 2013.
