Copper has been exploited for health purposes since ancient times - but a lack of knowledge and perceived cost issues could be holding back the fight against the superbugs.
An important part of life for many is public transport, which has been flagged as high risk of disease outbreak. There are some simple steps commuters can keep in mind - but there are also somethings government and transport bodies can do too.
Researchers and engineers at Purdue University have demonstrated that a laser treatment technique can be used to alter the surface of copper, increasing the antimicrobial properties so that it is able to "immediately kill of super-bugs such as MRSA."
Bacteria, microbes and viruses die when they come into contact with copper - this we know, and research has now shown the effectiveness of copper compared to other materials.
India has a long hard history of disease and infection; you may have heard (or even been a victim) of Delhi Belly. Researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras have discovered a cost effective way keep water bacteria free for longer.
Bacteria spreads easily in the gym - maybe another excuse so you don't have to go? Since there are so many high-touch areas... bars, dumbells and machine grips - and a generally humid environment, gyms can be perfect for breeding and spreading bacteria and viruses.