Most germs are spread through the air in sneezes, coughs, or even breaths. Germs can also spread in sweat, saliva (spit), and blood. Some pass from person to person by touching something that is contaminated, like shaking hands with someone who has a cold and then touching your own nose.

What is the source of germs?

Examples of environmental sources of germs include: Dry surfaces in patient care areas (e.g., bed rails, medical equipment, countertops, and tables) Wet surfaces, moist environments, and biofilms (e.g., cooling towers, faucets and sinks, and equipment such as ventilators)

Why do germs exist?

Purpose of Bacteria and Viruses

They are designed to decompose dead and dying material. Germs turn deadwood to rotting wood and then top soil. Germs do the same thing with dead animals. Germs are our planet's recyclers and without them, life on earth couldn't exist.