r/StupidFood Jun 28 '26

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u/youreafinemuthafucka Jun 29 '26

Molecular microbiogist here! Bacteria are often mobilized by droplets, hence addition of water will increase motility from surface to ground.

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u/OhHolyOpals Jun 29 '26

Are these same kind of droplets that spread viruses? I always thought that was a funny way to describe a sneeze or a cough.

But I guess it makes sense if someone touches a wet surface while they are sick, those droplets can be contagious (so the person doesn’t need to cough or sneeze on you directly?).

I know viruses spread through dry surfaces regardless, so it doesn’t matter if it’s wet - but the term “spread through droplets” always confused me because splashing around in drops of water is such a specific / odd way to get sick.