Germs spread by touch really good so wiping the handles is a good idea. Washing your hands often is ket. That, along with waiting outside at the doctor's office, is where you're going to reduce your chances of catching any bugs.
Too bad about the starter. Hopefully it's a quick and cheap fix and isn't too difficult to change.
RE: Day 838: 5 Minute Freewrite: Wednesday - Prompt: virus