The American Society of Microbiology recently issued a report on cleanliness in America. Microbiologists know that some simple, common sense habits of cleanliness—like washing our hands—can do a great deal to prevent the spread of disease. All it takes is rubbing your hands together for 10 to 15 seconds using soap and warm, running water. 

Unfortunately, the message hasn't gotten through to some people yet. The American Society of Microbiology knows this because they once stationed people in the restrooms of airports in five major cities in the U.S. and in Toronto. These monitors …