Final answer:
While it is true that many pathogens are spread by direct physical contact or through shared contact with objects, the spread of infections depends on the specific pathogens involved. Some require skin-to-skin contact or contact between mucous membranes, while others can spread through airborne particles or droplets.
Step-by-step explanation:
True: Many pathogens are indeed spread through direct physical contact between an infected person and a new host. This includes transfer via skin-to-skin touch, as well as indirect contact through objects, like sharing towels or touching door handles. Moreover, certain pathogens that cause sexually transmitted infections (STIs) require direct contact between mucous membranes for transmission. In contrast, other infectious agents can spread via airborne particles, droplets, or aerosols without the need for physical contact.
For instance, athlete's foot and warts are common ailments transmitted through direct contact. Likewise, other STIs and pathogens can be passed on through more intimate forms of contact, including sexual behaviors or sharing needles. Educational environments, such as schools and locker rooms, as well as shared public spaces like pools can be hotspots for the spread of such infections if appropriate hygiene measures, like hand-washing, are not taken seriously.
However, some infections do not require direct contact to spread, such as those caused by organisms that become airborne. Flu and cold viruses are examples of this mode of transmission. Hence, while it's accurate that most pathogens are spread by contact, the statement 'MRS is almost always spread by direct physical contact' is not completely comprehensive as it depends on the specific infectious agent in question.