A New Case Study: Just How Long Can COVID-19 Survive on Surfaces?

According to a recent article published by CNBC, some researchers believe that COVID-19 can survive on surfaces for up to 17 days. This new data, which was published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), was discovered after public health officials, cloaked in protective gear, examined the Diamond Princess and Grand Princess cruise ships which accounted for a combined 800+ confirmed COVID-19 cases.

Before this new published data, it was originally reported that COVID-19 could only survive on certain surfaces like plastic and stainless steel for 3 days. In addition, it was believed that the virus could only survive on cardboard for 24 hours. The findings aboard the cruise ships cast serious doubt on researchers’ initial data. At this point in time, and without further research, it is uncertain as to whether transmission occurred from contaminated surfaces, but the CDC believes that further fomite transmission research is important to understand the full extent of this virus.

This new research may change the equation for small business owners in several important ways. Whether it is insurance considerations or workplace safety concerns, it will be important for small business owners to stay informed. Medical experts and researchers are only beginning to understand the true nature of COVID-19.