Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) SLC Practice Exam

Which pathogens are commonly associated with vehicleborne transmission?

1. Only viruses

2. Food and waterborne diseases

3. Airborne pathogens

4. Vector-associated diseases

The correct answer is: Food and waterborne diseases

Vehicleborne transmission refers to the spread of infectious agents through contaminated objects, food, or water. The correct answer, which identifies food and waterborne diseases, highlights common pathways through which organisms can be transmitted. This includes pathogens like Salmonella or E. coli, which can contaminate food supplies, and organisms such as giardia, which can be transmitted through contaminated water sources. Food and waterborne illnesses typically arise when contaminated vehicles introduce pathogens to humans, resulting in outbreaks. This makes food and waterborne diseases significant public health concerns, as they can affect large populations when proper hygiene and safety measures are not practiced. Other options do not accurately represent the concept of vehicleborne transmission. Viruses, while they can be vehicleborne, do not encompass the full range of pathogens associated with this mode, particularly those linked to food and water. Airborne pathogens are primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets and aerosols rather than through objects or consumables. Similarly, vector-associated diseases rely on living carriers such as insects for transmission, which is distinct from the concept of vehicleborne transmission that relies on inanimate vehicles. Thus, food and waterborne diseases accurately capture the essence of pathogens transmitted through vehicleborne routes.