What term describes an infection that can be easily spread from one person to another?

The term that describes an infection that can be easily spread from one person to another is "contagious." Contagious diseases are typically transmitted through direct contact with an infected person or through indirect means such as surfaces, air transmission, or bodily fluids. This characteristic is key to understanding how certain infections can create outbreaks or be more problematic in community settings, as they require close contact for transmission.

Pathogenic refers to any microorganism that can cause disease, but it does not specifically imply how easily that disease can spread. Endemic relates to the constant presence of a disease within a geographical area or population, indicating its normal prevalence rather than its ability to spread. Chronic describes a disease that persists over time, often lasting for long periods, but does not directly address the transmission potential of the disease. Therefore, "contagious" is the most accurate term for describing infections that can spread easily from person to person.