When researchers at the University of Virgina examined the personal items of adults displaying signs of a cold and found every one of the salt and pepper shaker in their subjects' homes were tested positive for cold viruses, one can only assume the worse for the shakers and menus in restaurants, which have been handled by hundreds of patrons and are rarely cleaned.
Reduce the risk: Avoid contact between the menu and shaker with your plate or silverware, and wash your hands before and after you eat.
