COVID-19 Surface Transmission and Best Practices for Hygiene
COVID-19 Transmissibility Through Surfaces and Touching: Best Practices for Hygiene and Prevention
Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns about surface transmission of SARS-CoV-2 led to widespread cleaning and disinfecting protocols. Over time, scientific understanding of the virus’s transmissibility has evolved. Here, we explore what current research says about the risk of surface transmission and outline best practices for preventing the spread of COVID-19 through proper hygiene.
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How Significant Is Surface Transmission?
While respiratory droplets and aerosols remain the primary modes of COVID-19 transmission, the virus can also spread via surfaces, albeit less commonly:
- Viability on Surfaces:
- Studies published in The New England Journal of Medicine indicate that SARS-CoV-2 can survive on surfaces like plastic and stainless steel for up to 72 hours under laboratory conditions. However, the virus’s ability to infect decreases significantly over time.
- On porous surfaces such as cardboard and cloth, the virus becomes non-viable much more quickly, often within hours.
- Real-World Implications:
- The CDC states that surface transmission is not the primary driver of the pandemic. Nonetheless, the risk exists if a person touches a contaminated surface and then touches their mouth, nose, or eyes.
- Hand Hygiene’s Role:
- Proper hand hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of fomite transmission. Regular handwashing and avoiding face-touching are critical preventive measures.
Best Practices for Preventing Surface Transmission
Although the risk of surface transmission is low, maintaining good hygiene habits is essential for overall health. Follow these best practices:
- Wash Your Hands Frequently:
- Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public spaces, handling objects, or touching shared surfaces like door handles and elevator buttons.
- If soap and water are unavailable, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces:
- Focus on frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, keyboards, and mobile phones.
- Use EPA-approved disinfectants effective against SARS-CoV-2. A complete list is available on the EPA website.
- Practice Proper Cough and Sneeze Etiquette:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the inside of your elbow to prevent respiratory droplets from contaminating surfaces.
- Avoid Touching Your Face:
- Hands can transfer viruses from surfaces to mucous membranes in your mouth, nose, or eyes, so avoid unnecessary face-touching.
The Role of Testing in Transmission Prevention
While surface hygiene is important, frequent testing remains critical for identifying and isolating COVID-19 cases:
- Use rapid COVID-19 tests to monitor symptoms or check your status after potential exposure.
- Testing helps prevent inadvertent spread, especially during gatherings or after travel.
Additional Preventive Measures
Incorporate these habits into your routine for comprehensive protection:
- Improve Ventilation:
- Proper airflow can reduce airborne transmission risks. Use HEPA filters or open windows to improve air circulation in shared spaces.
- Masking When Necessary:
- Wear masks in crowded or high-risk settings to prevent respiratory droplets from landing on surfaces or spreading in the air.
- Stay Home When Sick:
- Isolate and test immediately if you develop symptoms of COVID-19 to avoid contaminating surfaces or exposing others.
What the Research Says
A 2024 review by The Lancet Microbe confirms that while surface transmission is possible, it is significantly less likely than direct respiratory transmission. The primary focus should remain on vaccinations, masking in high-risk areas, and maintaining good respiratory hygiene.
Although COVID-19 is primarily spread through respiratory droplets and aerosols, surface transmission remains a potential risk. Regular handwashing, disinfecting high-touch surfaces, and using rapid COVID-19 tests are effective strategies for reducing this risk. Incorporating these best practices into your daily routine helps protect both you and your community from SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens.
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