MASON CITY, IA-It isn't too uncommon to pay with plastic, but that credit card can lead to troubles later on.
We're not talking about your credit score. We're talking about how handling cards and cash can lead to the flu.
There are ways to protect yourself.
Health care workers say the most common way to get the flu virus is by being too close to someone who is coughing or sneezing. But, you can catch it from touching a surface or card with the virus on it.
Folks at the Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health office tell us influenza is definitely contagious.
They say often times people can transmit it even before they get symptoms.
Cards and money can carry germs and the flu virus but it's hard to know how long it lasts on any given surface. That's why it's so important for those who are working with people to be prepared.
Disease Prevention Service Manager at Public Health Karen Crimmings said, "it's real important when your dealing with a lot of things coming in from different people, that you do avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth because you are going to be more susceptible to picking up more viruses and germs from people, different people."
Crimmings suggests a couple of things to make sure you don't get sick this season. She says always wash your hands, use sanitizer and get your flu shot. She also suggests training yourself to not touch your mouth or eyes.
A lot to keep in mind, but also necessary ways of protecting yourself.
Crimmings says they haven't seen too many cases of the flu this year. She expects that to pick up after the Holidays.
