Top 5 Ways To Get The Flu

Either you have it or know someone whose got it.  

"My whole family is sick. I'm sick. He's sick. My older son is sick" said Kathy Townsman of South Philadelphia.

Doctors at the University of Arizona ranked the top five ways people are catching the flu, and you may be surprised at where the germs are hiding.

5. Shopping Carts.

"I didn't know that. I know they always give you the wipes but I never really thought much of it" said Nicole Clark of Maryland.

4. Restaurant tables.

Although tables may look clean many times servers wipe tables with dirty rags. It's best to bring a baby wipe with you to clean the table yourself.

"I will not go anywhere without some anti bacterial gel for my hands" said medical student Patrick Burns.
 
3. Refillable Liquid Soap Dispensers. 

Although they are meant to be clean--doctors say since they're in bathrooms fecal matter grow in the millions. If you use them--use hand sanitizer afterwards.

2. Airplane Bathrooms.

It is a surprise that most bathrooms have germs. But airplane bathrooms are deemed the nastiest of all public restrooms. It's estimated that 50 passengers use one toilet per flight.

1. Grocery Store Self Service Check Out Screens.

These screens designed to save time are heavily used and seldom cleaned.

 "I don't think about that. Considering how many other touch screens I use in other areas. That's pretty nasty," said Burns.

The Pa. Department of Health has deemed the flu as "widespread" throughout the state. The highest ranking it could give.

Doctors are seeing three types of illnesses-- a stronger flu virus strain that hit earlier this season, a new type of provirus that effects the stomach and the worst whooping cough outbreak in years.

Doctors say use common sense. If you are sick stay home and go to the doctor.