Which statement best defines contact transmission?

• A. Direct contact with a contaminated surface by the host.
• B. Transmission through airborne droplets.
• C. When a susceptible host comes in contact with a pathogen source either directly or indirectly.
• D. Ingestion of contaminated food.

Answer: (C)

Contact transmission refers to spread of infection by touch, either directly from one person to another or indirectly via a contaminated object (a fomite). The best choice describes a susceptible person coming into contact with a pathogen source directly or indirectly, which covers both direct contact (person-to-person) and indirect contact (touching contaminated surfaces or items) routes. For example, shaking hands with an infected person is direct contact, while touching a door handle after an infected person has touched it, then touching your face, is indirect contact. The other options point to transmission through airborne droplets or ingestion, which are different routes and not contact transmission.