Fomite

A fomite is an inanimate object contaminated with infectious agents that can contribute to their transmission between hosts.

Indirect transmission: The spread of an infectious agent between hosts through an intermediary rather than direct contact. Fomites are one route of transmission through an intermediary.
Infection prevention and control: Policies and practices that prevent infections from spreading in healthcare and community settings. Fomite precautions are one part of broader measures to limit transmission.
Direct transmission: The spread of an infectious agent from one host to another without an environmental intermediary. Unlike fomite transmission, direct spread does not pass through a contaminated object.
Viability assay: A test that determines whether cells or microorganisms remain capable of growth or activity. Viability testing distinguishes infectious potential from residual genetic material on a surface.
Contact transmission: The spread of an infectious agent through physical contact, either direct or mediated by a contaminated surface. Touching a contaminated fomite can transfer pathogens to skin or mucous membranes.
Hospital-acquired infection: An infection acquired during healthcare that was not present or incubating at admission. Contaminated equipment and surfaces can contribute to some healthcare-associated infections.
Airborne transmission: The spread of infectious agents through inhalation of particles suspended in air. Airborne spread can occur without touching a contaminated surface.
Polymerase chain reaction: A laboratory method that amplifies targeted DNA sequences for detection and analysis. PCR can detect pathogen material on objects without proving that it remains infectious.
Environmental persistence: The ability of an organism or substance to remain in the environment over time. A pathogen must remain viable on an object long enough to reach another host.
Healthcare-associated infection: An infection associated with receiving healthcare, including care outside hospitals. Fomite contamination is considered when preventing infections across care settings.

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