Surprising Places Where Illness Causing Germs Lurk

Norovirus and other germs aren't fussy where they hide.  Because I'm extremely obsessed with preventing the spread of norovirus, or any other illness that can make me vomit, I decided to add another post on surprise places these germs are hiding. 

Vacuum Cleaners.  Researchers at the University of Arizona found that 50% of the vacuum cleaners they tested contained fecal bacteria, e-coli, and mold.  Vacuums spread germs from one room to another.  To prevent contamination, spray a disinfectant on the brushes after every use.  If you're shopping for a new vacuum cleaner, consider a bagless one since they prevent the spread of germs better than the ones with disposable bags.

Grocery carts and baskets.  Most stores have sanitizer dispensers right by the carts.  Use them!  The University of Arizona study found that almost two thirds of the handles on shopping carts tested had fecal bacteria.  That's more than the average bathroom.

Restaurant Menu's and the salt and pepper shakers on the table.  Cold and flu viruses can last up to 18 hours on hard surfaces.  In a busy restaurant, hundreds of people touched that same menu during that time period.  Never let the menu touch the plate or silverware and wash your hands after placing your order or use a hand sanitizer.  The same goes for salt and pepper shakers.

Lemon wedges in drinks.    In a 2007 study from the Journal of Environmental Health, nearly 70 percent of the lemon wedges in restaurant glasses contained disease-causing microbes.  Enough said!