WASHINGTON — A study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), tested the longevity of the virus on five different surfaces.
- Steel
- Plastic
- Copper
- Cardboard
- Air
The NIH used a nebulizer to spray the disease into a controlled chamber, to stimulate people spreading germs through sneezes, saliva and fecal matter.
AIR
The study determined that COVID-19 lasts for up to three hours in the air.
But here’s where we need to get really specific. The virus isn’t just floating all around you. The virus is trapped in droplets, like snot for example.
If you touch an area where any of those droplets landed within the last three hours and then touch your face, that's when you make yourself vulnerable to contracting the disease.
COPPER
Do you know why cooper door knobs are ideal during a pandemic? It’s because copper has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Because of that, the virus dies within four hours of landing on a copper surface.
CARDBOARD
Boxes made of cardboard and papers you pass around the offices aren’t so helpful. The study says COVID-19 lasts up to 24 hours on those surfaces.
STEEL
Steel and plastic are the most concerning surfaces. If someone with COVID-19 spreads the virus to a steel or plastic surface, the study says the virus remains active on that surface for two to three days!
We’re all about facts, not fear so here’s what you can do to protect yourself and your family.
Wash your hands!
Post 20 seconds of song lyrics to the mirror in your bathroom. Sing those every time you wash your hands.
If you’re not near a sink, hand sanitizer is your best bet. Just make sure it dries before you start touching things.