Contact isolation is a specific infection control practice used to prevent the spread of certain infectious diseases that can be transmitted through direct or indirect contact. Among the options provided:
MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)
MRSA is known for causing infections that are difficult to treat due to its resistance to common antibiotics. Contact isolation is indeed recommended to prevent its spread in healthcare settings.
Mumps
Mumps is a viral infection known for causing parotitis and is typically spread through respiratory droplets, not generally requiring contact isolation.
Diphtheria
Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the throat and upper respiratory tract and is spread through close physical contact or respiratory droplets. Contact isolation is necessary to prevent transmission, especially in healthcare environments or outbreaks.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic condition affecting the airways and is not contagious, hence does not require contact isolation.
Thus, based on the information and the need for controlling transmission, the correct answer is Diphtheria, which does require contact isolation to prevent its spread.