Indirect transmission can occur through contact with what?

• A. Direct contact
• B. Air
• C. An intermediate object
• D. Water

Answer: (C)

Indirect transmission happens when a pathogen is passed from one person to another via an intermediary object, not by a direct touch. An intermediate object, or fomite, can become contaminated when someone with the pathogen handles it. Then another person who touches or uses that same object can acquire the germs. In a salon, this means things like shared brushes, combs, towels, capes, or countertops can carry microbes from one client to the next if they aren’t properly cleaned and disinfected. While air or water can also spread infections, this question focuses on the role of an object as the bridge between people. Proper sanitization and disinfection of tools and surfaces disrupt this transmission route and reduce risk.