Which term describes the spread of pathogens from one surface to another?

Which term describes the spread of pathogens from one surface to another?

• A. Contamination
• B. Cross-contamination
• C. Infection
• D. Pollution

Answer: (B)

Cross-contamination describes the spread of pathogens from one surface to another. It happens when microorganisms transfer from a contaminated surface, utensil, or hands to foods or other surfaces, potentially causing illness. This is more specific than contamination, which is simply the presence of pathogens somewhere, and not necessarily transferred. It’s not infection, which is the pathogens infesting and multiplying in a person, nor pollution, which is a broader term for unwanted contaminants in the environment. In practice, prevent cross-contamination by separating raw and ready-to-eat foods, keeping your hands and surfaces clean, and cleaning and sanitizing tools between tasks.

Cross-contamination describes the spread of pathogens from one surface to another. It happens when microorganisms transfer from a contaminated surface, utensil, or hands to foods or other surfaces, potentially causing illness. This is more specific than contamination, which is simply the presence of pathogens somewhere, and not necessarily transferred. It’s not infection, which is the pathogens infesting and multiplying in a person, nor pollution, which is a broader term for unwanted contaminants in the environment. In practice, prevent cross-contamination by separating raw and ready-to-eat foods, keeping your hands and surfaces clean, and cleaning and sanitizing tools between tasks.