Coronavirus: Can COVID-19 spread through surfaces? Here's everything we know

The recent surge in coronavirus cases has ignited a state of alarm and chaos. With the ever-expanding list of COVID-19 symptoms and the threat posed by the double mutant virus, government authorities have either imposed restrictions or a night curfew to curb the spread. During such times, not only does social distancing become a necessary measure, but keeping our surroundings clean and disinfected is also crucial. However, besides coming in contact with an infected person, how likely is it for the virus to spread through surfaces?

Unlike any other disease, COVID-19 is more dangerous and has many risk factors associated with it. That said, as long as the virus continues to exist amongst us, it is only proper to steer clear of sick individuals and most frequently touched surfaces, which could carry the infections. However, contrary to earlier studies which claimed that the virus could spread through infected surfaces, recent findings suggest otherwise.

According to an earlier Australian research, not only could a person contract the novel coronavirus from an infected carrier, but also catch the deadly infection from a contaminated surface. As per the study, the virus displays a 'robust' response when it accumulates on frequently touched surfaces including currency.

Additionally, in February last year, the World Health Organization guidelines also read that the virus that causes COVID-19 can spread through contaminated surfaces and recommended people to decontaminate their surroundings.

However, over the course of time, many new researches and studies have argued the claims and clarified whether or not COVID-19 can spread through surfaces.

Reportedly, in a recent update of their COVID guidelines, the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), stated that the risk of contracting the virus from a contaminated surface is less than 1 in 10,000.

According to CDC Director Rochelle Walensky, "People can be affected with the virus that causes COVID-19 through contact with contaminated surfaces and objects." "However, evidence has demonstrated that the risk by this route of infection of transmission is actually low, " she added.

As per CDC guidelines, while cleaning with soap and water along with hand-washing and wearing well-fitted masks is enough to lower down transmission risks, it is important to clean and disinfect the spaces occupied by an infected individual.

While the CDC claims that the spread of COVID-19 through surfaces is low, given the surge in the COVID-19 cases, you can never be too careful. Akin to how it is absolutely necessary to practice social distancing and follow all COVID measures, you can continue cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that could be the most infectious. Here are some surfaces where the viruses could collect and increase the risk of COVID transmissions.

SARs-COV-2 is an invisible virus, which can only be detected through COVID tests. However, the virus can latch on to the surfaces and contribute to the rising cases of COVID-19. That said, it is important to make sure that you do not come in contact with frequently touched surfaces while travelling. While using public transportation, avoid touching the poles, seats, or glasses as it could contain the virus from an infected person.

The screens of our phones can also be a breeding spot for COVID virus. While we carry it everywhere and use it every minute of the hour, it can get contaminated at any point of time. That said, we must remember to sanitize it and avoid touching our mouth, nose and eyes, immediately after using it. Similar precautions should be taken when we use our tablets, laptops and other gadgets with screens.

While COVID-19 has changed our lives in every unimaginable way possible, the need for money to survive is still the same. That said, hundreds and thousands of people are using the ATM machines on a regular basis, which makes it a hotspot for COVID-19 infections. Therefore, before using an ATM machine, disinfect the surfaces and sanitize your hands.

Additionally, COVID-19 can also spread due to the exchange of money taking place everyday from person to person. It can be a breeding house for the germs and a primary carrier of the virus. Therefore, avoid using paper notes for transactions and indulge in online payments whenever you can.