How long can the TB bacteria remain airborne?
Because of its small size, the bacteria is virtually weightless and can remain suspended in air almost indefinitely. Due to this characteristic, it is able to be carried by normal air currents throughout a room or facility. Q: Is there concern for transmission of TB once the bacteria comes in contact with a surface? A: Usually only if the particle can once again become airborne. The CDC states that non-critical items (those that either do not ordinarily touch the patient or those that touch intact skin) do not transmit tuberculosis infection. Q: What happens to the droplet nuclei when it comes in contact with a surface? A: Particles this small normally come in contact with walls and ceilings. Once deposited, they are imbedded or attached to the surface by a process called molecular adhesion. Scrubbing usually becomes the only way to remove them. After a period of time, the droplet nuclei evaporate and the TB bacteria eventually ceases to be virulent. Q: What are the chances of a suscep
