I saw this on newhope360.com...

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, most cold and flu viruses are spread by infected people coughing or sneezing within three feet of someone, or by a healthy person picking up viruses that have been left on a surface, such as a door handle. Because a person remains contagious from the day before symptoms appear through about day seven, the best defense is a good offense. To prevent transmitting germs, wash hands thoroughly with warm soapy water for 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.