Final answer:
A fomite is an inanimate object that can transmit infectious agents after contamination. Vectors, which differ from fomites, are living organisms that spread pathogens, with mosquitoes and ticks being common examples.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the student's question is c) Fomite. A fomite is any inanimate object that can be contaminated by an infected person and then has the potential to transmit the infectious agent to a susceptible host. This can include a wide variety of objects, such as door handles, toys, or even towels. Viruses and bacteria can live on the surface of these items for varying periods of time, making them vehicles for indirect contact transmission.
An example of a disease spread by fomites is the common cold, which can be passed from person to person when they touch a surface that has been contaminated with respiratory droplets containing the virus.
A vector is distinct from a fomite. Vectors are living organisms, like mosquitoes and ticks, that can transmit pathogens. Vectors can be either mechanical or biological. A mechanical vector, such as a fly landing on food, can mechanically transfer pathogens without being infected itself by the pathogen. A biological vector, such as a mosquito, becomes infected with the pathogen and can then transmit the infection to other hosts.