Coronavirus: how long the virus lives outside the body

A couple in protective masks celebrates Valentine’s Day on the streets of orchids in Singapore. Photo — REUTERS/Edgar Su

How long is the coronavirus can survive outside the body? The new coronavirus COVID-19 has properties similar to other viruses, such as SARS or MERS, which means that he will live up to 9 days outside the human body.

It is difficult to determine exactly how long the coronavirus can survive outside the body, that is, on objects. We know that all viruses are sensitive to environmental influences, such as temperature or disinfectant. “Journal of hospital infection,” reports the results of the test, which analyzed 22 studies for viruses, including SARS and MERS . Of them it is clear that viruses can exist outside the body for up to 9 days.

Viability of viruses is reduced because of the high temperatures (30-40 degrees Celsius) and the use of detergents. Sanitizers containing 62 to 71 percent ethanol, 0.5% hydrogen peroxide or 0.1% sodium hypochlorite, can kill viruses. However, they should not be applied to the skin as they can cause irritation.

Chinese coronavirus spreading droplets, which means that we can catch it by coughing or sneezing from an infected person. We will also get sick by touching our nose, eyes or mouth with dirty hands — coronavirus will penetrate into our body through the mucous membranes with an infected surface.

There is no chance that the virus will be able to penetrate through your skin.

Coronavirus — parcels from China

Yes, even the who responded to this question — the packages from China can be open without fear, because the virus will die before they reach the recipient.

Coronavirus — how to protect yourself

Concern about hygiene, the only thing that can protect us from coronavirus infection. Wash your hands often and keep clean your living and working areas.