Final answer:
Thermometers are devices that only touch skin or come into contact with persons indirectly, important for mitigating the transmission of pathogens. Proper hand washing is emphasized by health professionals as a key measure to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
The devices mentioned that only touch the skin or come into contact with persons indirectly are thermometers. Unlike gloves, masks, and hand sanitizers that either cover the skin or are applied directly, thermometers are used to measure body temperature without necessarily needing to touch the person. Many modern thermometers use infrared technology to take readings without physical contact. It's particularly important for microbiologists and those in related health fields to mitigate the transmission of microbes through indirect contact, as these professionals understand the essential role of proper hygiene in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
A hand washing routine is crucial in preventing the spread of pathogens, as recommended by health professionals. Thorough hand washing with soap and water can greatly reduce the transfer of microbes from contaminated surfaces like doorknobs and tools to individuals, thereby decreasing the risk of infection.