In the context of reservoirs of infection, what term describes a source that allows a pathogen to survive and multiply?

• A. Reservoir
• B. Vector
• C. Fomite
• D. Portal of entry

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of each term related to reservoirs of infection: A 'reservoir' is any person, animal, plant, soil, or substance in which an infectious agent normally lives and multiplies, serving as a source from which other individuals can be infected.
2. Recognize that a 'vector' is typically a living organism, such as an insect, that transmits a pathogen from one host to another but does not usually allow the pathogen to multiply within itself.
3. Know that a 'fomite' refers to inanimate objects or materials that can carry infection, such as clothes, utensils, and furniture, but do not support the multiplication of the pathogen.
4. Identify that a 'portal of entry' is the site through which a pathogen enters a host, such as the respiratory tract or skin, and is not a source where the pathogen survives or multiplies.
5. Conclude that the term describing a source that allows a pathogen to survive and multiply is 'reservoir' because it is the natural habitat of the pathogen.