Virus Life Expectancy varies inside as well as outside the body.

Virus Life Expectancy Inside the Body

Viruses and other microbial pathogens’ expectancy inside the body varies. They can live for days, weeks and maybe months inside the body. It depends on how quickly our immune system can get rid of them.

Virus Life Expectancy Outside the Body

The life expectancy of the viruses outside the body is equally varied.

Influenza Viruses

The influenza virus can survive on hard surfaces for 24 hours. It’s during that time that the influenza viruses are transferable to hands. They only survive for about 15 minutes on tissue and soft porous fabrics.

The Common Cold – Rhinovirus

The common cold that is caused by Rhinoviruses can survive on indoor non-porous surfaces. These surfaces could be stainless steel and ceramic tile. They remain virulent from hours up to more than a week. Typically, a much shorter time on porous surfaces like fabrics and tissues.

Coronavirus COVID 19

The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is still a microbial mystery to us all. Recent studies suggest that it is infectious on metal surfaces for up to 4 hours, up to 24 hours on cardboard, and up to 2 to 3 days on plastic and stainless steel. Survival of these microbes on surfaces is only one aspect of concern.

These microbes pose an alternative threat of exposure because they can remain airborne for periods of time. As a result of that the appropriate etiquette for sneezing and coughing is imperative.

Social Distancing

Social distancing is very important as coronavirus is believed to be transported by droplets. This means that it may linger less in the air. Therefore, the most important recommendation is to stay six feet or more away from others. That way any potentially dangerous droplets that are discharged from an uncovered sneeze, cough or exhalations will land up on the ground or on surfaces that can be easily cleaned. That way they are harmless.

In conclusion, it’s very important to pay attention to social distancing for this very reason.