Cold and flu virus will live on a Kleenex
for about an hour, on their hands
for about two and on a hard surface
for up to 24 hours. Ugh. Cleaning surfaces with cleaning wipes will help. And cleaning your own hands is essential. Proper hand washing and/or using hand sanitizer should be routine. Then basics like getting enough rest, exercising regularly and eating well will help you. That's the skinny on trying to avoid cold and flu.