Which infectious disease is characterized by highly contagious respiratory infection?

Measles is known for being a highly contagious respiratory infection. It spreads primarily through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. An infected person can transmit the virus to others even before symptoms appear, making it particularly infectious. In fact, measles is one of the most contagious diseases, with a high reproduction number, meaning that each person with measles can infect many other people. Vaccination has been key in preventing outbreaks, but the disease remains a significant health concern in areas with low vaccination coverage.

Other options represent important health issues but do not fit the criteria of a highly contagious respiratory infection. Tuberculosis is primarily transmitted through airborne droplets but is less contagious compared to measles and has a longer incubation period. HIV is not spread in the same way and primarily transmits through blood or sexual contact, rather than respiratory routes. Diabetes, while a significant health condition, is not infectious at all but rather a chronic metabolic disorder.