Fomites

Inanimate objects, such as bed linen, clothing, books, or a telephone receiver, that are not harmful in themselves but may be capable of harbouring harmful microorganisms or parasites and thus convey an infection from one person to another. Fomites mainly transmit respiratory infections, such as influenza. The singular form of the word is fomes.

 

Online Medical Dictionary: Your essential reference to over 5000 medical terms.