Preventing the Common Cold

Researchers at the University of Virginia say the common cold virus can linger on surfaces like doorknobs and TV remote controls for two days or longer!

Once a sick person transfers the cold virus onto a household item:

• If another person touches that item within an hour, they have an 89 percent chance of getting the virus.


• If they touch the item within 24 hours, they have a 69% chance.


• Even 48 hours later, the virus is still there. And the next hand to touch it has a 53% chance of getting the virus and that means getting sick.

Dr. Philip Tierno from NYU medical center says realize viruses can be easily picked up and transferred throughout the house. Practice good household hygiene by using a germicide to clean solid surfaces. The study found the most contaminated areas in the home are doorknobs, refrigerator door handles, TV remote controls and bathroom faucets.

-NewsAnchorMom Jen

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