How long does the COVID-19 “stay” on surfaces, books, etc?
This information can change, please double-check sources for information and continue to monitor sources or check back here for updates.
Transmission of COVID-19 occurs much more commonly through respiratory droplets than through objects and surfaces. There are many factors that determine how long a virus can live on a surface outside the body. Current evidence suggest that COVID-19 may remain viable for hours to days on surfaces, depending on the surface material and ambient conditions. Cleaning and disinfecting dirty surfaces is a best practice for prevention.