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Cold germs lurk on home surfaces and kids' toys

Infection Control Weekly Monitor, November 5, 2008

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It will come as no surprise to most ICPs, but a new study shows that cold sufferers often leave their germs on surfaces, where they can live for two days or longer.

Researchers found that people with colds can leave germs on high touch surfaces in their homes, such as refrigerator door handles, door knobs, and television remotes. Scientists at the University of Virginia tested surfaces in the homes of cold sufferers and reported the results at a joint conference of the American Society for Microbiology and the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Items found to harbor germs also included salt and pepper shakers, light switches, bathroom faucets, phones, and dishwasher handles. The message of this research is a greater focus on cleaning commonly touched surfaces in the home to prevent the spread of colds. People with colds also need to frequently wash their hands before touching surfaces to avoid contamination.

In a separate study, university physicians tested toys in the offices of five pediatricians during last year’s cold and flu seasons. Tests showed fragments of cold viruses on 20% of all toys tested—including those in the “sick child” waiting room, in the “well child” waiting room, and in a bag of toys that kids can choose from as a reward for having a shot.

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