The Salmonella outbreak is linked to cereal. The cereal would be known as...
a. Fomite
b. Vehicle
c. Vector
d. Chronic carrier
I think it’s B since inanimate objects that carry infection are vehicles of transmission but couldn’t it also be A too? Isn’t a vehicle the same thing as fomite??
You are correct that both options B and A could be potential answers. Let me explain the difference between a vehicle and a fomite to help you make a better decision.
Option B: Vehicle refers to a substance or object that is responsible for transmitting a disease-causing agent. It serves as a means of transfer from one source to another. This can include food, water, or other items that can carry and transmit the pathogen. In this case, if the Salmonella outbreak is linked to cereal, which is a food product, then it can be considered a vehicle.
Option A: Fomite refers to an inanimate object or surface that can become contaminated with infectious organisms and can therefore transmit the infection when touched or used by others. Cereal, being a food product, is not typically considered a fomite since it is consumed rather than directly touched or used by others.
Therefore, based on the information given, it's more appropriate to choose option B, vehicle, as the answer.