What action produces droplets that may transmit communicable diseases?

Coughing, sneezing, or talking produces respiratory droplets that can carry pathogens. When a person coughs or sneezes, these droplets are expelled from their mouth and nose, potentially containing viruses or bacteria. If another person inhales these droplets or they come into contact with surfaces that are then touched, there is a risk of transmission of communicable diseases, particularly those that spread through respiratory routes, such as influenza or COVID-19.

In contrast, wiping or scratching the skin primarily pertains to skin conditions and does not inherently produce droplets that can transmit infections. The use of personal protective equipment is aimed at preventing the spread of disease rather than producing droplets. Hand washing is a critical practice for reducing the spread of infections, but it does not produce droplets either. Thus, the specific action of coughing, sneezing, or talking is directly associated with the release of droplets that may transmit communicable diseases.