American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

Which organisms are transmitted via the airborne route?

1. Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus

2. Candida, herpes simplex, and zoster

3. Zoster, tuberculosis, measles, and chickenpox

4. Influenza virus and RSV

The correct answer is: Zoster, tuberculosis, measles, and chickenpox

The organisms that are transmitted via the airborne route include those in the selected answer. Measles, chickenpox (varicella), and tuberculosis are well-known pathogens that can be spread through airborne transmission. This method of transmission occurs when infectious agents are carried in small respiratory droplets or dust particles that can remain suspended in the air for prolonged periods and may be inhaled by individuals over distances greater than those typically associated with droplet transmission. Measles is highly contagious, with the potential to spread to individuals who are not immune, even in spaces where the virus was airborne hours after an infected person has left. Chickenpox also demonstrates similar properties regarding its contagiousness and means of transmission. Tuberculosis is primarily transmitted through the air via droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it a significant public health concern, especially in crowded settings. Other options contain organisms that are either not transmitted via the airborne route or demonstrate a different transmission mechanism. Streptococcus pneumoniae, while it can spread through respiratory droplets, is not classified as being predominantly airborne in its transmission. Candida and herpes simplex viruses typically spread through direct contact rather than airborne transmission, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is primarily spread through droplets and close contact rather