Top 5 Germ Hotspots as Cold and Flu Season Looms: Protecting Against a Potential 'Tripledemic'

As the upcoming cold and flu season approaches, television network theGrio investigates overlooked germ sources, emphasizing the need for germ prevention alongside vaccinations amidst rising cases of RSV and COVID-19.

While flu shots have been customary, health authorities now recommend considering two additional annual shots due to the resurgence of COVID-19 and the spread of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

How Long Cold and Flu Virus Remain Alive on Surfaces

Even for those not typically germ-conscious, the arrival of cold and flu season can lead even the most resilient individuals to feel uncomfortable touching items like bus and subway poles, doorknobs, and even engaging in handshakes with strangers.

While adults experience around two to three colds annually, children tend to get even more. Although colds can occur at any time, the prevalence of sniffles and sneezes during colder months suggests adopting a hands-off approach is a prudent choice.

Is it genuinely possible to contract germs from surfaces touched by someone who's already sick? Alison Carey, MD, an associate professor of microbiology and immunology at Drexel University, explained that the likelihood of falling ill after touching an infected handrail or countertop is quite high.

The germs responsible for cold and flu can survive on solid surfaces for a span of 24 to 48 hours. Maintaining cleanliness in personal surroundings and being cautious in public settings are essential for preventing severe sickness. Whether during cold and flu season or not, understanding our frequent encounters with potentially harmful germs is a vital survival skill.

10 Germ Hotspots at Home and in Public Areas

Numerous everyday items, both at home and in public, present chances to encounter disease-causing germs. Here are the top 10 germ hotspots compiled to raise awareness:

• Sink- Kitchen sinks harbor more bacteria and germs than toilets, including the sink's drain and any attached flange, which requires regular cleaning and disinfection.
• Dish sponge and rags- Experts advise disposing discolored and worn sponges after a week. More so, it is recommended to wash dish rags and towels every three to five days to avoid redistributing pathogens onto surfaces.
• Remotes and Appliance buttons- Appliances' buttons and remote controls, including game controllers and TV remotes, can accumulate harmful germs and require frequent cleaning due to various forms of contact.
• Door knob and light switch- Frequently neglected despite daily use, doorknobs and light switches are high germ areas that require regular cleaning with disinfecting wipes or sprays.
• Purse and wallets - Regularly clean and disinfect various items, adapting methods based on material - washing machine for canvas, specialized cleaner for leather and suede, and gentle handwashing for faux leather.
• Phones and other gadgets - Cell phones, found to be 10 times dirtier than toilet seats, can be effectively cleaned by using a disinfecting wipe daily, followed by a microfiber cloth.
• Handrails - Public handrails, including those on public transit and escalators, are laden with germs; it's advisable to refrain from direct contact and wash hands promptly after touching them.
• Shopping carts and baskets - Despite the presence of hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes in front of shopping carts or baskets, varying hygiene practices among individuals necessitate caution to avoid touching the face while using them, followed by hand washing or sanitization after shopping.
• Store Counters - Retail establishments typically clean countertops and surfaces before or after operating hours, offering limited protection during busy periods.
• Gas pumps - Gas pumps, exposed to numerous hands and outdoor elements, are potential germ hotspots; using hand sanitizer after refueling is strongly recommended.

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