To keep from getting sick, avoid these surfaces

CINCINNATI - This time of year, it seems like we're surrounded by people coughing, sneezing and sometimes worse.  So how can you avoid the germs?

One way is to know where germs can lurk for long periods of time, and avoid those places.

Dr. Susan Rehm of the Cleveland Clinic says surfaces that are soft and porous make a good breeding ground for bacteria.  Also places that are room temperature or higher.

Dr. Rehm says things like cloth, sponges, and wet carpets are places where bacteria thrive.

They should be cleaned regularly. Washing a sponge or a cloth in bleached water, or running them through the dishwasher will help.

And watch out for money! Bacteria can live there for a long time.

And of course, there's the bathroom. Dr. Rehm says it's not just the toilet.  It's the sink, the tub and other areas that are wet, where germs proliferate, and we can pick them up.

Dr. Rehm suggests regularly cleaning the bathroom, and wearing rubber gloves when you do.