What term describes a substance or object that can carry infectious material?

The term that describes a substance or object that can carry infectious material is a fomite. A fomite is an inanimate object or surface that can become contaminated with infectious agents, such as bacteria or viruses, and serve as a vehicle for transmission to humans. Common examples include doorknobs, utensils, or medical equipment that may harbor pathogens.

Understanding this concept is crucial in preventing the spread of infections, as it emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and disinfection in public and healthcare settings. Other terms, such as vector, bacteria, or pathogen, refer to specific types of carriers or microorganisms involved in disease transmission but do not accurately define an inanimate object or substance like a fomite does. A vector, for instance, refers specifically to living organisms (often arthropods) that transmit pathogens between hosts, while bacteria and pathogens are types of organisms that can cause infections but do not necessarily describe the means of transmission through objects.