Research Update: COVID-19 on Surfaces

There are hundreds of papers published every day on the COVID-19 virus. The range of topics borders on the incredible, so I decided to provide two updates based on a couple questions that I’ve gotten. The first is a simple one. How long does the virus live on surfaces? When does it become unable to infect us?

Using standardized procedures that exposed the surfaces to identical amounts of viable COVID-19 virus, researchers tested surfaces under a standard temperature of 68 degrees F and 35-40% humidity. They found the virus was detectable up to seven days on nitrile gloves, four days on chemical-resistant gloves, 21 days on plastic face shields and N95/N100 particulate respirators, and 14 days on stainless steel. All very nice, but how about what appears to be argued about most of the time: cotton masks? The viability of the virus on cotton was reduced within four hours of drying and by 24 hours, was not detectable at all. For a full explanation on the facts behind masks, check out the free Health Info on drchet.com: Cloth Masks: What the Research Says.

The researchers want to check out other materials used in personal protection devices, but the masks are most relevant to you and me. If we can’t wash them between uses, which will kill the virus, letting them dry completely overnight renders the virus unable to infect us. They will continue to protect others as long as we wear them. Respect.

What are you prepared to do today?