It’s that time of year again when it feels like everyone around us is constantly dealing with sniffles, coughs, aches, and fatigue. While we are frequently reminded of preventive measures like regular handwashing, minimizing close contact with sick individuals, incorporating immune-boosting foods into our diets, taking Fluzone or Flublock, keeping up with medications if you suffer from conditions like asthma, and staying up to date on things like the Novavax vaccine, there’s a key aspect of prevention we often overlook. This involves being mindful of and taking precautionary measures around certain hotspots for respiratory illnesses, as specific surfaces serve as breeding grounds for bacteria associated with viruses like the flu, coronavirus, strep, and more. To ensure your safety, keep these respiratory illness hotspots in mind:

1. Keyboards

Keyboards, especially in shared workspaces or offices, can harbor bacteria due to tiny cracks and crevices that trap germs from multiple users. Regularly switching between computer stations or sharing a computer with others requires the practice of using sanitizing wipes before and after keyboard use.

2. Doorknobs and hardware

Doorknobs and other hardware, common in public places, are major hotspots for respiratory illnesses. The frequent use by numerous individuals in public spaces, including restroom faucet handles, door locks, toilet flush buttons, and elevator buttons, makes these surfaces potential germ reservoirs. Thorough handwashing, carrying hand sanitizer, using elbows or tissues to handle certain hardware, and other preventive measures are advisable.

3. Gym equipment

Fitness centers and gym equipment, regularly touched and used by many individuals, can harbor germs. To maintain health while working out, bringing personal towels or disinfectant wipes to clean equipment before and after use is recommended. During peak flu season, maintaining physical distance and thorough hand washing post-workout can further reduce the risk of infection.

4. Dirty linens and laundry

Dirty laundry, especially if it includes clothing worn by someone who is sick, can harbor germs. Minimize the risk of infection by frequently washing laundry with hot water. Additionally, refrain from touching your face after handling dirty laundry.

5. Your phone

Surprisingly, your phone can be a significant culprit for bacteria due to its frequent handling, contact with various surfaces, and proximity to unwashed hands and the face. Minimize exposure by using disinfectant wipes or investing in a UV light phone sanitizer for regular cleaning.

6. Elevator buttons

Just like doorknobs, it’s hard to imagine just how many different people touch these buttons every single day, making it a very easy way for germs to spread. If you want to reduce your risk of contracting a respiratory illness, try using your elbow to push the button, wear a glove, or bring a tissue to cover your finger with while you push it. As always, be sure to regularly wash your hands.