How are Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C commonly transmitted?

Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are primarily transmitted through direct exposure to infectious bodily fluids. This includes sexual contact, where the virus can enter the body through mucous membranes, and shared needles, which can facilitate the transfer of blood that contains the virus. Both viruses are bloodborne pathogens, making shared drug use or other exposure routes involving blood significant risk factors for transmission.

The other options involve modes of transmission that are not applicable to Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. Contaminated food and water as well as mosquito bites do not transmit these viruses, as they require direct blood-to-blood contact or exposure to bodily fluids. Respiratory droplets are typically associated with viral infections such as the flu or COVID-19, rather than hepatitis viruses. Understanding the specific modes of transmission for these hepatitis viruses is essential for prevention and education efforts.