Which of the following provides protection against infectious agents?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is specifically designed to protect individuals from exposure to infectious agents in various environments, especially in healthcare settings. PPE includes items like gloves, masks, gowns, and face shields, which act as barriers to minimize the risk of transmission of infectious diseases. These protective measures are essential for ensuring the safety of healthcare workers and patients alike, particularly when dealing with blood, bodily fluids, or contaminated surfaces.

While band-aids can offer a degree of protection for minor wounds, they are not comprehensive in providing overall protection against a wide range of infectious agents. Regular clothing, while helpful for basic coverage, does not offer the specific barriers required to prevent the spread of pathogens. Disposable towels may be useful for cleaning and drying but do not provide direct protection to the person using them. Therefore, PPE is the most effective and specialized means of safeguarding against infectious agents in professional and clinical situations.