Which of the following describes an inanimate object that may harbor infectious agents?

The term that describes an inanimate object capable of harboring infectious agents is "fomite." Fomites refer to any non-living surface or object that can become contaminated with pathogens and subsequently transfer those pathogens to a person who comes into contact with the item. Examples include door handles, clothing, utensils, and furniture, which can retain infectious agents like bacteria and viruses for varying periods of time.

In contrast, a vector is typically a living organism that transmits infectious agents between hosts, primarily through bites, such as mosquitoes or ticks. A disease carrier often refers to an infected host that can transmit pathogens to others, usually through direct contact rather than inanimate surfaces. An organism usually refers to any living entity, which may or may not be involved in the transmission of disease but does not specifically denote an inanimate object involved in the spread of infection.

Therefore, the correct definition for an inanimate object that harbors infectious agents aligns precisely with the description of a fomite.