Which of the following describes a method of direct pathogen transmission?

Direct pathogen transmission occurs when pathogens are transferred from an infected individual to a susceptible individual through direct contact or a direct route. Sharing needles exemplifies this process as it involves the direct exchange of a contaminated object, which can carry bloodborne pathogens such as HIV or hepatitis. When an individual shares a needle with someone who is infected, the pathogens can be transmitted directly into their bloodstream.

In contrast, exposure to contaminated water involves indirect transmission through environmental sources, as pathogens are often ingested rather than transferred directly. Airborne droplets from a sneeze, while involving close proximity, typically classify under indirect transmission since pathogens travel through the air before reaching another person. Similarly, an insect bite can be considered a form of transmission, but it involves a vector and does not meet the criteria for direct transmission, which necessitates that the pathogen move directly from person to person without an intermediary.

Therefore, sharing needles is a prime example of direct pathogen transmission due to the immediate contact with infectious material.