fomites
/ˈfəʊmɪtiːz
/plural noun Medicine
Objects or materials which are likely to carry infection, such as clothes, utensils, and furniture.Transmission by virus-contaminated hands or fomites is less likely....
- Moreover, they may contaminate fomites that can transmit the disease to persons who do not have direct contact with the animals.
- Transmission is by person to person and fomites, such as bedding and clothing.
Origin
Early 19th century: from Latin, plural of fomes, literally 'touchwood, tinder'.