Vanquishing Home Viruses

You keep your house tidy, but it’s tough to clean what you can’t see: invisible viruses that cause the flu or common cold. When germy fingers touch a household surface, the virus causing bugs can transfer there and linger. Objects frequently handled by family members—such as telephones, doorknobs, the TV remote or the keyboard for a shared computer—are often-overlooked viral “hot spots.”

To help prevent the spread of viruses in your home:

• Wash hands often—especially before eating, after using the bathroom, and before and after cooking. A thorough wash takes at least 15 seconds of rubbing hands together with soap and water. A paper towel is best for drying.
• Clean household surfaces often with disinfectant spray or antibacterial wipes.
• Keep hands away from your eyes, mouth and nose. These are key body entry points for a virus.