What is an example of indirect contact transmission?

Indirect contact transmission occurs when an infection is spread through contaminated surfaces or objects, rather than through direct physical contact. In the context of the question, option B is an illustration of indirect contact transmission because the resident develops diarrhea after sharing a bathroom with a roommate infected with C. difficile, a bacterium that can survive on surfaces. The infection can spread when the resident comes into contact with surfaces contaminated with spores from C. difficile, such as the bathroom fixtures or floor, rather than through direct interaction with the infected roommate.

This scenario highlights how pathogens can be transmitted indirectly through the environment, emphasizing the importance of hygiene practices, especially in shared spaces. Cleanliness and disinfection of common areas are crucial to preventing the spread of infection in such situations.