Germs, Handbags & Your Health
How do we get infections?
Numerous studies estimate that over 70% of all common illnesses (colds, flu, intestinal illnesses) are transmitted through surfaces that we touch.
"Many viruses, bacteria and fungi can remain active on surfaces for several days whether the surface is stainless steel, wood, plastic or even the paper in a magazine " according to Dr. Elaine Jong, MD, co-director of the University of Washington Travel Clinic in Seattle." When you touch an infected surface, the germs are transmitted to your hands. Then, when you touch your eyes, nose or mouth you have infected yourself."
Where Are Germs Found?
As you go through your day, think of all of the places that you touch -- door handles, sink faucets, hand rails, counter tops, car doors, light switches etc.. People leave their germs behind after sneezing, coughing, blowing their nose and touching their mouth and other more private parts.
The Solution
The best way to prevent problems, of course, is to never touch these "problem surfaces." says University of Arizona microbiologist Charles Gerba, PhD, a leading researcher better known in the science world as
"Dr. Germ."
Top Ten Surfaces to Avoid
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ABC NEWS STORY--Your Purse Could Be Making You Sick
SNOPES NEWS STORY--Bag-teria
LIFESCRIPT NEWS STORY--Women's Purses Play Host To Germs
URBAN LEGENDS NEWS STORY--A Dog's Mouth Is Cleaner Than Your Purse
Prensus: As Seen On TV!
