wnylib
wnylib's JournalNIH: Coronavirus on surfaces/packages
NIH research studies indicate how long this new coronavirus remains active on various surfaces:
Copper, 4 hours
Cardboard, 24 hours.
Stainless steel and plastic, 2 to 3 days.
Aerosoized virus (from coughing, sneezing, or exhaling) remains active in the air for 3 hours.
Therefore, it can be picked up from touching door handles. This includes indoor handles on frozen and refrigerated items in convenience and grocery stores. Also elevator buttons.
This virus can also be picked up from packages shipped in cardboard within 24 hours of being touched by an infected person.
You transmit it to yourself if you touch an infected surface and then rub your eyes, touch your mouth.
The NIH said it is unclear whether the coronavirus can be spread from person to person through the air (aerosolized form). They didn't say why, but I am guessing there is doubt about whether it can remain suspended in air after being coughed or exhaled out. Some weeks ago I read that this new coronavirus is weightier than other viruses, making it less likely to be spread by airborne transmission, unless you are very close to an infected person.
RE: Who is at risk?
Older adults and people with underlying conditions are called the most vulnerable. Part of the reason for senior vulnerability is due to the underlying conditions that often come with age.
But young children, teens, and young adults are also vulnerable if they have asthma, chronic allergies (chest congestion), diabetes, or a heart condition.
Asthma and allergies are common among children. Type 1diabetes is not as common as asthma, but does affect quite a few young people. Sone children are born with heart disorders that require surgery.
So when we take precautions with the elderly, let's not forget that there are other vulnerable people.
Western NY - Uh-oh
Hamburg, NY, just outside of Buffalo. A class and their teacher returned from trip to northern Italy. Teacher informed public health officials who recommended 2 week quarantine.
But the kids had already been in school for a week by then.
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