Final answer:
Shaking linens is the action that would most likely spread microorganisms by dispersing them into the air, whereas the other options help to reduce or contain their spread.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the options provided, shaking linens would most likely spread microorganisms. The mere act of shaking can disperse microbes present on the linens into the air, creating the potential for them to land on surfaces or even be inhaled by individuals in the vicinity. In contrast, placing dirty linen in a laundry bag, rolling dirty linens away from you, and practicing hand hygiene before handling clean linen are practices that help to contain or reduce the spread of microorganisms.
In alignment with what a microbiologist would affirm, the most effective measure for preventing the spread of contagious illnesses is rigorous hand hygiene. Microorganisms are incredibly tiny and can be found on various surfaces, including doorknobs, money, and human hands. It's through contact with these contaminated surfaces or direct human-to-human interaction, such as shaking hands, that these microbes can transfer and potentially cause illness. Keeping hands clean, especially in settings where there is frequent contact with shared surfaces or items, is crucial in interrupting the transmission of these pathogens.