What is the function of coughing and sneezing in infection control?

Coughing and sneezing serve as crucial defense mechanisms in infection control by helping to expel pathogens from the body. When a person coughs or sneezes, air is forced out of the lungs at high speeds, which can propel droplets containing viruses, bacteria, or other infectious agents into the environment. While this can inadvertently spread pathogens, the primary intent of these actions is to eliminate irritants and infectious agents from the respiratory tract, thereby reducing the overall microbial load in the body.

This physical expulsion of pathogens can help prevent further infection or illness in the individual and minimizes transmission risk to others. Such mechanisms are part of the body's innate immune response, aimed at maintaining health and preventing the establishment or spread of infections. By understanding this function, it becomes clear how coughing and sneezing play a vital role in infection control practices.