Food Manager Practice Exam

How can Staphylococcus aureus be easily transmitted?

1. By sharing utensils

2. Through sneezing and coughing

3. In contaminated water

4. By eating undercooked meat

The correct answer is: Through sneezing and coughing

Staphylococcus aureus is a type of bacteria commonly found on human skin and in the nasal passages. One of the primary ways it can be transmitted is through respiratory droplets, which occur when an individual sneezes or coughs. These droplets can land on surfaces or be inhaled by others, facilitating the spread of the bacteria. The bacterium is resilient and can thrive in various environments, including food, but its airborne transmission via respiratory droplets is particularly significant in the context of personal interactions and close quarters, such as restaurants or gatherings. This emphasizes the importance of hygiene practices, such as covering one's mouth when sneezing or coughing, to minimize the risk of spreading this microorganism. Understanding this transmission route helps reinforce the necessity for proper food safety practices, hygiene, and the role of asymptomatic carriers who might not realize they are spreading the bacteria.