Study Reviews Coronavirus Survival on Surfaces

Introduction to the Coronavirus

Researchers have recently examined various studies focused on the duration coronaviruses remain infectious on surfaces. Since its emergence in December 2019, the novel coronavirus, 2019-nCoV, has been responsible for severe respiratory infections in humans. It is estimated that each case of the virus can infect approximately two-and-a-half other individuals.

Characteristics of 2019-nCoV

The 2019-nCoV, a member of the coronavirus family, shares several traits with MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome). The virus primarily spreads through human-to-human contact via respiratory droplets, contaminated hands, and surfaces. The onset of flu-like symptoms typically occurs within two to ten days after infection. Without effective control measures, the rapid spread of 2019-nCoV poses a significant global health risk.

Research Objectives

Given its classification as a betacoronavirus akin to MERS and SARS, researchers at the Department for Molecular and Medicinal Virology at Ruhr-Universität Bochum conducted a review of 22 studies regarding coronaviruses and their deactivation. A key objective was to determine how long coronaviruses can persist on surfaces and identify effective measures to reduce infection risk, particularly for healthcare providers who are at heightened risk.

Infection Risks in Healthcare Settings

Lead study author Gunter Kampf highlighted the importance of understanding infection risks in healthcare settings. He noted that commonly touched items in hospitals, such as door handles, call buttons, bedside tables, and bed frames, which are often made from metal or plastic, could harbor the virus.

Findings on Virus Survival

The research team assessed studies related to MERS and SARS and found that these viruses can remain infectious on surfaces for up to nine days, with an average survival time of four to five days. Factors such as low temperatures and high humidity were found to extend their viability.

Effectiveness of Cleaning Solutions

The study also analyzed various cleaning solutions and their concentrations, measuring their effectiveness against the viruses. Solutions containing 62-71% alcohol, 0.5% hydrogen peroxide, and 0.1% bleach were identified as the most effective disinfectants. Conversely, lower concentrations of benzalkonium chloride (0.05-0.2%) and chlorhexidine digluconate (0.02%) were less effective in eliminating the virus from surfaces.

Preventive Measures Against Virus Spread

To mitigate the spread of coronaviruses, the study emphasizes the importance of preventive measures such as frequent handwashing and maintaining respiratory hygiene. Furthermore, effective surface disinfection is highlighted as a critical strategy in reducing transmission risk.

Conclusion

This study underscores the importance of understanding how long coronaviruses can survive on surfaces and the effectiveness of various disinfectants in order to protect public health.

References

Kampf G, Todt D, Pfaender S, Steinmann E. Persistence of coronaviruses on inanimate surfaces and its inactivation with biocidal agents. Journal of Hospital Infection. 2020. doi:10.1016/j.jhin.2020.01.022
Imai N, Cori A, Dorigatti I et al. Report 3: Transmissibility of 2019-nCoV. Fpmag.net. https://fpmag.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Imperial-2019-nCoV-transmissibility.pdf. Published 2020. Accessed February 8, 2020.
Zhu N, Zhang D, Wang W et al. A Novel Coronavirus from Patients with Pneumonia in China, 2019. New England Journal of Medicine. 2020. doi:10.1056/nejmoa20010172019.
Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) Situation Summary | CDC. Cdc.gov. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html. Published 2020. Accessed February 8, 2020.
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