Does coronavirus stay on mail
The COVID-19 virus, which causes coronavirus, is primarily spread from person-to-person through respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby, or be inhaled into the lungs.
As for the transmission of COVID-19 through mail, the risk is considered to be very low. The virus is not known to survive for long periods of time on surfaces, including mail and packages.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have both stated that the risk of transmission of COVID-19 through mail and packages is low. Here are some reasons why:
- The virus is sensitive to temperature and humidity: COVID-19 is a fragile virus that is sensitive to temperature and humidity. It is unlikely to survive for long periods of time outside of a human host.
- Mail and packages are typically handled and transported in a way that minimizes the risk of transmission: Mail and packages are typically handled and transported in a way that minimizes the risk of transmission, such as being sorted and processed in a controlled environment, and being transported in sealed containers.
- The virus is not known to survive on surfaces for long periods of time: Studies have shown that the COVID-19 virus is not known to survive on surfaces for long periods of time. For example, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the virus was not detectable on surfaces after 24 hours.
That being said, it is still possible for COVID-19 to be transmitted through mail and packages if an infected person has handled the mail or package and then touched their mouth, nose, or eyes. However, the risk of transmission through mail and packages is considered to be very low.
To further reduce the risk of transmission, it is recommended to:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after handling mail or packages.
- Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes after handling mail or packages.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may have come into contact with mail or packages.
- Avoid sharing personal items, such as utensils, towels, or personal care items, with others.
It's also important to note that the risk of transmission through mail and packages is not the only way COVID-19 can be spread. The virus can also be spread through close contact with an infected person, such as through respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes.