Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your certification!

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What is a nonliving material that can mechanically transmit a disease called?

Vector
Fomite
Carrier
Host

The correct answer is: Fomite

The correct answer describes a fomite as a nonliving material that can mechanically transmit a disease. Fomites are inanimate objects or surfaces, such as doorknobs, utensils, or equipment, that can harbor pathogens and facilitate the transfer of infectious agents between individuals. This transmission occurs when a person touches a contaminated surface and then comes into contact with their mouth, nose, or eyes, allowing the pathogens to enter the body. In contrast, a vector is a living organism, typically an insect, that actively transmits disease-causing pathogens to hosts. A carrier refers to an organism that harbors a pathogen but may not exhibit symptoms of disease and can still infect others. A host is an organism that supports the growth and reproduction of a pathogen, providing a suitable environment for the disease to thrive. Thus, while the other options all relate to the transmission or support of disease, a fomite specifically pertains to nonliving materials in this context.