Shopping carts: countless people reach for the handle every day. Some have a cold, others don't pay attention to hygiene ...

Empties machine: The bacterium Acenitobacter has even been found here. It can cause pneumonia in people with a weak immune system.

Handbag: According to a British study, one in five handbags is a real germ trap! One of the reasons for this is that we often reach into it, throw used tissues inside and rarely clean the inside thoroughly.

Smartphone and tablet: The ultra-modern touchscreens are extremely practical. The big disadvantage, however, is that we are constantly touching the screen - and soon many a pathogen will be romping around on it.

Beard: Facial hair is currently enjoying great popularity. This new US study is unlikely to please many men: bacteria feel right at home in it.

Admittedly. It all sounds frightening at first. But the good thing is that we can easily protect ourselves. All we have to do is wash our hands thoroughly with soap after shopping and going to the toilet - unfortunately, not everyone still does this. It also helps to clean your handbag and smartphone regularly, for example with a disinfectant wipe.