Fomites are inanimate objects that are capable of hosting and spreading pathogens to a new host when exposed to a new host. They serve as vehicles for transmitting diseases. Fomites include basic hospital equipment, such as life support equipment, stethoscopes, IV drips, life support machines, etc. It generally includes virtually all patient care items and environmental surfaces that is being contaminated by pathogens.
Diseases that can be transmitted through fomites include cold sores, influenza, lice infestation, strep infections, and conjuctivitis.
