Respiratory droplet

Respiratory droplets are tiny liquid particles that travel through the air when a person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes, carrying saliva, mucus, or other secretions from their respiratory tract. These droplets are typically larger and heavier than aerosol particles, so they generally fall to the ground within a few feet of their source rather than lingering in the air for extended periods. Understanding respiratory droplets is important for public health because many contagious diseases, including flu and COVID-19, spread this way, which is why health experts recommend practices like covering your mouth when you cough and maintaining physical distance during illness.