How long can the virus survive on surfaces?
Can we get infected from handling cash?

This is part 23 of our coronavirus FAQ. Click here to read other installments: #Coronavirus the facts. Find the latest information and answers from experts on everything COVID-19.

How long can the virus survive on surfaces?

A study led by researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the United States found that while the presence of the virus on surfaces decreases considerably over time, the amount of time it lingers varies by type of surface. For example, it remains on copper for four hours and cardboard for 24 hours.

It lingers longer on other surfaces. The study found the virus remains on plastic for 72 hours, and on stainless steel for 48 hours.

This information is accurate as of June 22, 2020.

Can the virus be transmitted through the exchange of cash?

According to Professor Mikamo Hiroshige of Aichi Medical University, a specialist in infection control, this depends on the volume of virus present on the cash.

But he says if cash has been handled by an infected person, we should assume it will carry the virus for some time. In order to prevent infection, Mikamo says we should wash our hands with soap or disinfect them with sanitizer before touching our mouth or nose. He says these measures should also be taken after we touch anything we have purchased.

This information is accurate as of June 23, 2020.