Which of the following best explains why areas that have been in contact with a sick child should be sanitized?

• A. To neutralize toxins produced by non-living contaminants
• B. To eliminate all microorganisms, including beneficial ones, from the environment
• C. To increase the microbial diversity in the area for improved immunity
• D. To reduce the number of pathogenic microorganisms and prevent the spread of infection

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of sanitization in the context of microbiology: it is primarily aimed at reducing the number of harmful microorganisms to prevent disease transmission.
2. Recognize that sick individuals can shed pathogenic microorganisms (such as bacteria or viruses) onto surfaces they come into contact with.
3. Identify that sanitizing these areas helps to lower the microbial load, specifically targeting pathogens that can cause infection.
4. Note that sanitization does not necessarily eliminate all microorganisms, nor does it aim to neutralize toxins produced by non-living contaminants, but focuses on reducing pathogens.
5. Conclude that the best explanation for sanitizing areas contacted by a sick child is to reduce the number of pathogenic microorganisms and thereby prevent the spread of infection.