Study: Germiest place around is gas pump - DC Breaking Local News Weather Sports FOX 5 WTTG

The flu has reached an epidemic level in the U.S., and health professionals are pointing out some of the germiest places you encounter every day, and how you can reduce your risk of catching the bug.

If you don't know someone who has had the flu this season, chances are you will.  Though a flu shot will reduce your chances of getting sick, germs are waiting everywhere to strike at your immune system.  

Now, researchers are studying just where those germs are lurking, and you might be surprised where they found them.  It makes sense that places like light switches, door handles, computer keyboards, TV remotes and refrigerator handles harbor bacteria, but it's also found in places you might not think about.

Next time you visit the ATM or a public mailbox, you might have a special delivery waiting that you don't want.  And, a new study says the germiest place by far is the gas pump.

Doctors say no matter where you might pick up a bug, there's one sure fire way to make it hard for the germs to get you down: wash your hands.