Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) SLC Practice Exam

What is a reservoir in the context of infectious diseases?

1. A method to treat infections

2. A human, animal, or any surface or object where pathogens can grow

3. A barrier preventing disease spread

4. An immunity that prevents infection

The correct answer is: A human, animal, or any surface or object where pathogens can grow

In the context of infectious diseases, a reservoir refers to any living organism, human, animal, or even an inanimate surface or object that can harbor a pathogen. This is crucial to understanding how infectious diseases spread because reservoirs can support the growth and survival of pathogens, making them a vital part of the life cycle of the disease-causing organisms. For instance, pathogens may multiply in the bodies of animals or humans (living reservoirs) or persist on surfaces such as doorknobs and medical equipment (inanimate reservoirs). Recognizing reservoirs is essential for controlling and preventing infections, as it helps identify sources of outbreaks and informs public health interventions. The other options describe different aspects of disease management and prevention but do not accurately capture the definition of a reservoir in this context.