How is measles primarily transmitted?

Measles is primarily transmitted through direct contact with droplets from the nose and throat of an infected person. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, respiratory droplets are released into the air, and these droplets can be inhaled by individuals nearby. The highly contagious nature of the virus means that they can remain in the air or on surfaces for some time, facilitating its spread even among those who may not have been in direct contact with the infected individual. This mode of transmission underscores the importance of vaccination and herd immunity to prevent the outbreaks of measles, particularly in communities. The other options involve transmission methods that are not associated with measles, such as contaminated food and water, insect bites, or physical contact, which do not play a significant role in the spread of this specific viral infection.