Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
fomite
Noun
ˈfō-ˌmīt
Definition
An inanimate object or surface that can carry infectious organisms and transmit disease.
Examples
- Door handles can be common fomites that spread colds and flu.
- After the outbreak, they disinfected all potential fomites in the hospital.
- Smartphones are often overlooked fomites that can harbor bacteria.
Meaning
Fomites are non-living objects that can serve as a medium to transfer germs or pathogens from one person to another.
Synonyms
- Contaminated object
- Infectious surface
- Pathogen carrier
