Final answer:
Influenza can be spread by touching a contaminated inanimate object, as the virus is able to survive on surfaces and be transferred to a person who then touches their face. Good hygiene is important to prevent the spread of the flu. correct answer is D) Influenza .
Step-by-step explanation:
The direct answer to which infection or disease may be spread by touching a contaminated inanimate article is D. Influenza.
Explanation: Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It spreads primarily through droplets made when people with the flu cough, sneeze, or talk. Surfaces can become contaminated with these viruses when droplets land on them. When a person touches these surfaces and then touches their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, they can become infected. This mode of transmission is why personal hygiene, such as regularly washing hands and disinfecting shared surfaces, is crucial during flu season to prevent the spread of influenza.
Diseases like rabies are typically transmitted through the bite of an infected animal rather than through contact with inanimate objects. Giardia and E. coli are commonly spread through contaminated food or water, not typically by touching surfaces. While these pathogens can survive on surfaces to some degree, the risk of transmission is notably lower than with respiratory diseases like influenza.