Which of the following is NOT a method of transmission for medically important protozoa?

• A. Ingestion of contaminated water
• B. Direct contact with infected individuals
• C. Vector-borne transmission by insects
• D. Airborne droplets

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the common transmission routes for medically important protozoa. These typically include ingestion of contaminated water, direct contact with infected individuals, and vector-borne transmission by insects.
2. Step 2: Review each option to determine if it is a known transmission method for protozoa. For example, ingestion of contaminated water is common for protozoa like Giardia and Entamoeba.
3. Step 3: Recognize that vector-borne transmission by insects is a well-established route for protozoa such as Plasmodium (malaria) and Trypanosoma (sleeping sickness).
4. Step 4: Consider direct contact with infected individuals, which can occur in some protozoan infections through sexual contact or other close interactions.
5. Step 5: Identify that airborne droplets are not a recognized transmission route for protozoa, as protozoa generally require ingestion, direct contact, or vectors for transmission, unlike some bacteria or viruses.