Myths spreading like an epidemic.

• Position: Flu Season - Debugging flu myths - Brief article

Flu tracking specialists say technology, like online shopping and scanning at tollbooths, is reducing our exchange of money and, therefore, our exposure to the flu virus. However, there are other ways to spread the flu--and doctors say the key to staying healthy may be debugging flu myths.

Myth 1: You only can catch the flu from someone who already is sick. Actually, adults can infect others up to one clay before symptoms show--and up to seven days after getting sick.

Myth 2: The flu is spread solely by coughing and sneezing. This is untrue, as you can catch it by touching something with the virus on it, then touching your eyes, mouth, or nose.

Myth 3: Antibiotics can help fight the flu. Designed to treat bacterial infections, antibiotics have no effect on viral infections, including most colds and flu, sore throats, sinus infections, and bronchitis. "Unfortunately, this misperception can do more harm than good," warns...