How Long Does the Coronavirus Live on Different Surfaces?

Will I get sick from opening a package?

What about handling a library book?

Is it safe to drink from a water fountain?

What about lifting weights at the gym?

Do I need to worry about my toddlers habit of putting everything in his mouth?

What do we know about the viruss survival on different surfaces?

So what do we already know?

Meanwhile, astudyshowing coronaviruses can last for up to 9 days was performed in a controlled laboratory condition.

The virus will last longer in wet, cool environments, Wootton said.

Generally speaking, hot and dry conditions are bad for the virus and good for us.

Some other good news?

High-touch, high-contact surfaces are the ones to focus on, Chang said.

One item people definitely need to clean:Yourphone.

If you have access to one, there are UV disinfection boxes that can do the trick.

I wouldnt worry as much about soft surfaces, Wootton said.

Focus more on high-contact hard surfaces such as door handles and kitchen counters.

For places like the gym, its important to wipe down your equipment after use.

The rubbing alcohol acts as to kill the germs, while the benzyl ammonium chloride removes dirt and pathogens.

The important thing is to let the surface air dry after wiping it down with a disinfectant.

For more specifics, the CDC has issued someguidelinesfor cleaning and disinfecting a household.

Cleaning is the removal of germs and dirt from surfaces.

Although this doesnt kill germs, removal lowers the risks of spreading infection.

Disinfecting is using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces.

Just see to it, when you are using these products, to do so in a well-ventilated area.

Remember: viruses dont do well in hot and dry conditions.

If you want to zap those viruses, the dryer is the perfect place.

At a minimum, once daily, focusing on those high-contact surfaces, Chang said.

So indulge your inner neat person, start scrubbing, and dont forget to wash your hands.