7 Most Germ Infested Public Places
Public germs… they’er awful to think about, and completely unavoidable. Here’s the low-down on the germiest public places/items, and how to avoid them as best as you can.
Lemon Wedges
It’s unfortunate to consider, but according to a study conducted by the Journal of Environmental Health, 70% of lemon wedges on restaurant glasses have been exposed to disease-causing microbes – including E. coli and fecal bacteria. – Skip that lemon in your tea next time.
Soap Dispensers
Figure that one out. 25% of public restroom dispensers have been contaminated with fecal bacteria, and there’s a good chance that the dispenser itself has never been cleaned. The more soap scum that builds up – the worse the germ situation is. Be sure to keep your hands under the hot water faucet for 15-20 seconds – or better yet, use an alcohol based sanitizer.
Restaurant Menus
When is the last time you’ve seen a waiter or waitress wipe down a menu? – Unfortunately, it’s not a terribly common practice. Hundreds of people handle restaurant menus on a daily basis, and since germs can survive on a hard surface for up to 18 hours, there’s a good chance you’re picking up quite a few, once you’ve made contact. Be sure to avoid touching your menu to your or silverware – also remember to wash your hands immediately after ordering.
Condiment Bottles
You guessed it, these don’t get bleached regularly either. – The last guy’s germs are about to be all over your main course if you’re not careful! Give the bottle a rub-down on the outside with a little hand sanitizer. – Wrapping your napkin around the bottle won’t help you out at all, as bacteria is able to pass right through the porous material.
Bathroom Door Handles
Not nearly enough people wash their hands when leaving a bathroom. You know the drill. Open up that door with a paper towel, or catch it with your elbow/shoulder – there’s no way you’re going to want any of those germs all over your hands.
Grocery Carts
Two-thirds of shopping card handles are contaminated with fecal bacteria… yum, that’s worse than a public bathroom. Lots of stores offer sanitary wipe stations near the cart areas… wipe that thing down, and try to pass on the free samples.
Doctor’s Office
Doctor’s offices are teeming with bacteria. Take your own books, magazines, children’s toys, etc., always remember to bring hand sanitizer, and try to leave a couple of seats between yourself and the others around you. Coughing and sneezing germs have a projectile of about 3 feet.
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