Each winter I get calls from my patients who have developed a bad cold on vacation. Now a study presented in San Fransisco reported on the presence of living cold viruses in hotel rooms. Volunteers with active colds stayed overnight in a clean hotel room. The next morning, researchers found that 35% of common objects were contaminated with cold-producing viruses. Most contaminated items were door handles, light switches, faucets, telephones, and TV remote control. The researchers pointed out that the cold viruses remained active and well at least one day after the study volunteers had checked out of the hotel. These results suggested that wiping down commonly used surfaces can reduce the chance of picking up a leftover cold. Use disposable wipes such as those from Lysol to clean door handles, faucets, and light switches to stay healthy while away from home.
