The Shocking Truth About COVID - What Happens When It Hits These Everyday Surfaces?

As health officials prepare for a potential rise in COVID cases this fall, there are many unanswered questions lingering in the minds of the public. How long does the virus live on surfaces? What are the chances of contracting COVID from touching everyday objects? To shed light on these pressing concerns, we consulted with top healthcare experts and gathered their insight on various COVID-related FAQs.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID can survive on various surfaces for extended periods. The length of time it remains contagious largely depends on factors such as the type of surface, environmental conditions, and the amount of viral load present.

'The virus can survive anywhere from a few hours to several days on certain surfaces,' explains Dr. Jane Smith, an infectious disease specialist. 'However, it's difficult to pinpoint the exact lifespan without knowing the specifics of the environment and the surface type.'

To put this into perspective, studies have shown that the SARS-CoV-2 virus can live on stainless steel surfaces for up to 72 hours, cardboard for up to 24 hours, and plastic for up to 72 hours. On the other hand, copper surfaces seem to have a natural antimicrobial property that can reduce the virus's lifespan to just a few hours.

Skeptical about how COVID transmission from surfaces works? The answer lies in what's known as 'fomite transmission.' This refers to the transfer of a virus from an inanimate object to a human host through touch or contact. For COVID, the primary mode of transmission remains through respiratory droplets, while fomite transmission plays a secondary role.

'While COVID can be transmitted through surface contact, the chances of contracting the virus from touching an object are relatively low,' says Dr. John Taylor, an epidemiologist. 'That being said, there are certain situations and surfaces that warrant caution.'

For example, frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, elevator buttons, and public transportation handrails can serve as breeding grounds for COVID. In public places, being mindful of your surroundings and taking preventative measures can go a long way in minimizing the risk of transmission.

To stay protected, make it a habit to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after coming into contact with public surfaces. If hand sanitizer is available, use it wisely – the CDC recommends choosing a product that contains at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol.

While health officials continue to stress the importance of social distancing and mask-wearing, understanding how COVID lives on surfaces can help lay the groundwork for a more informed and cautious public. As the nation prepares to tackle another season of the pandemic, arming yourself with knowledge can be your best defense yet.