Cleaned surfaces can still harbor pathogens, but are much less likely to ______.

• A. spread infections
• B. host growth
• C. attract pests
• D. corrode

Answer: (A)

Cleaning reduces the amount of microbes on a surface and lowers the chance that pathogens are transferred to people. When a surface is cleaned, the microbial load is diminished, so if someone touches it or it contacts a client, there are fewer pathogens available to cause infection. This is why the idea of the surface being much less likely to spread infections fits best: cleaning disrupts the chain of transmission by removing or killing many of the germs that could be passed along. Some pathogens may remain, but the overall risk of transmission is significantly reduced. The other options don’t address transmission risk in the same way—cleaning doesn’t primarily prevent growth, attract pests, or affect corrosion in this context.