fomite
/ˈfoʊmaɪt/
noun
- An object or material that can carry and spread infectious germs, such as a doorknob, towel, or phone.
- Researchers found that the virus could survive on a fomite for several hours.
- The doctor explained that a doorknob can act as a fomite and spread the flu virus.
- To reduce the risk of infection, they regularly disinfect common fomites like keyboards and light switches.