Only a cold virus in your body can cause a cold. Antibiotics do not kill viruses. In fact, taking antibiotics for a cold can cause you to become resistant to antibiotics, reducing their effectiveness when you really need them. A cold virus can t survive outside the body. Most cold viruses can live for several hours on any surface.
Cold viruses are especially prevalent on doorknobs and keyboards.
The best way to avoid a cold is to stay away from someone who has one. True, but the VERY BEST way to prevent a cold is to wash your hands frequently with hot water, using lots of soap. Cold viruses usually get into your nasal passages through direct or indirect contact with your hands. The Eyes Have It. Sure They Keep It.