An inanimate object capable of transmitting an infectious agent is called

An inanimate object capable of transmitting an infectious agent is called

• A. Fomite
• B. Vector
• C. Reservoir
• D. Portal of exit

Answer: (A)

The main idea is how pathogens spread through indirect contact with objects. A fomite is an inanimate object that can carry an infectious agent and transfer it to a person who touches it and then touches their face, eyes, or mouth. The surface itself doesn’t multiply the agent; it just serves as a vehicle for transmission. Think of doorknobs, towels, or shared equipment that become contaminated and can pass infection to subsequent users. In contrast, a vector is a living organism that transmits disease (like a mosquito), a reservoir is the habitat where the pathogen lives and multiplies (such as an infected person, animal, or environment), and a portal of exit is the route by which the pathogen leaves its reservoir (for example, coughing, sneezing, or open wounds). So, an inanimate object that transmits an infectious agent is a fomite.

The main idea is how pathogens spread through indirect contact with objects. A fomite is an inanimate object that can carry an infectious agent and transfer it to a person who touches it and then touches their face, eyes, or mouth. The surface itself doesn’t multiply the agent; it just serves as a vehicle for transmission. Think of doorknobs, towels, or shared equipment that become contaminated and can pass infection to subsequent users. In contrast, a vector is a living organism that transmits disease (like a mosquito), a reservoir is the habitat where the pathogen lives and multiplies (such as an infected person, animal, or environment), and a portal of exit is the route by which the pathogen leaves its reservoir (for example, coughing, sneezing, or open wounds). So, an inanimate object that transmits an infectious agent is a fomite.