What is the primary transmission method for Meningitis?

Meningitis, particularly the viral and bacterial forms, primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. This droplet transmission makes close contact with an infected individual a significant risk, as the droplets can be inhaled by those nearby. Additionally, some pathogens that cause meningitis can also remain suspended in the air and lead to airborne transmission.

While contact transmission is also a concern, especially with certain strains where shared personal items might lead to spread, the predominant method, especially in outbreak situations, is through droplets and airborne particles. Vector-borne transmission refers to diseases spread through organisms like insects, which is not a common pathway for meningitis pathogens. Therefore, the correct answer encompasses both droplet and airborne routes, highlighting the critical nature of respiratory hygiene in preventing the spread of meningitis.