Several factors influence how contagious a disease is:
- Pathogen Characteristics: The nature of the infectious agent, including its ability to survive outside the host, its infectious dose, and its mode of transmission. - Host Factors: The immunity of the host, including pre-existing immunity or vaccinations. - Environmental Factors: Conditions such as crowding, sanitation, and climate can affect the transmission rate. - Behavioral Factors: Human behaviors, such as hand hygiene, mask-wearing, and social distancing, play a crucial role in controlling the spread.
