We are in the middle of flu season and so far, nearly half of the states in the country are reporting widespread illnesses. Health experts say within the next few weeks, you can expect even more people to get sick.
"People cough into their hands and then they touch things," said Dr. Matthew Sims.
Dr. Sims is a Director of Infectious Disease and Research at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak.
"The flu virus actually has been shown to spread better through cold, dry air. It's part of why it circulates in winter," he explained.
Dr. Sims says the workplace is one of the biggest offenders when it comes to spreading the flu.
"Touching phones, touching keyboards, touching computer mouse, just the services on the desk," Dr. Sims explained. "People shouldn't shake hands during flu season they should do things like fist bump."
When you are sick, Dr. Sims says to use hand sanitizer after you cover your cough.
"Cough into your hand is good. But coughing into the crook of your elbow is better."
Physicians say the best way to fight the flu is to get vaccinated, but it can take two weeks to become effective. In the meantime, the doctors at American Family Care have compiled a list of the top 5 germiest places to avoid during flu season:
- Debit card machine. Get into the habit of punching in your debit card pin with a knuckle instead of a fingertip. This way if you rub your eye or mouth with your fingertip, you’re not transferring germs.
- Community pens. Whether at work or signing a credit card receipt at a store, never pick up a public pen because they’re covered with other people’s germs. Keep a pen handy for any situation that could pop up.
- Shaking hands. People are more germ-conscious these days so avoiding a handshake is not as rude as once thought, especially during flu season. If you must do it, wash or sanitize your hands immediately.
- Cell phones, tablets. We are constantly using our phones or computer tablets to show friends and coworkers pictures or videos. This means other people are putting their germs on something you are constantly touching. Get into the habit of wiping your phone down with a disinfecting wipe to cut down on spreading germs.
- Gas pump. Drivers must get gas no matter what, sick or not. Protect yourself at the pump, grab a paper towel by the pump before picking up the gas nozzle. You can also use the paper towel as a barrier when punching in your debit/credit card info.
