How Long Do Cold and Flu Germs Live on Surfaces?
According to the Center for Disease Control, cold and flu viruses usually spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The flu virus has a lifespan that can range anywhere from a few seconds to 48 hours outside the body. The length of time the virus lives depends on the type of virus and the kind of surface on which it exists. Flu viruses are able to survive for longer periods of time if they are deposited onto non-porous surfaces such as plastics, woods or metals. They tend to have a shorter lifespan when on paper and fabric surfaces. Since it has been determined that the virus can live up to 48-hours on a non-porous surface, it makes sense to disinfect those surfaces to eliminate the possibility of spreading the virus. Personal Cleanliness For years doctors have advised regular hand washing to prevent the spread of the flu, as well as other illnesses. Many people have switched to antibacterial soaps, but the cause of the flu is a virus, not bacteria, so an antibacterial soap wou
