Mass Transit: Subways and Buses a Breeding Ground to Catch Cold and Flu?

Scarves that cover your face also do not act similarly to surgical masks proven to effectively keep germs at bay. Although it may seem like they act as barriers, the microbes can pass through the holes within the knit scarf or fabric.

"I don't know any data that suggest scarves are protective," Kozarsky acknowledges.

If, however, you really want to ward yourself from the cold and flu effectively, you can emulate what laboratory scientists wear as protection -- although you may get funny looks from other passengers.

"The first lines of defense -- the air and touch -- are the backbone of public health prevention," says Dr. Neil Kao, chair of the Allergic Diseases and Asthma Center in Greenville, S.C. "If you get a mask, wear gloves, you have a 99 percent chance of preventing yourself from getting the cold or flu."