Study shows COVID-19 can last on surfaces long-term, temperature a factor

Scientists say the coronavirus can last up to 28 days on things you touch every day, but living in Florida has some benefits.

“There are germs all over the place,” Nancy Kelly said.

A study by Australia’s national science agency proves the virus that causes COVID-19 can last on surfaces such as a cell phone, a bank note or steel surface for 28 days.

“The surfaces people are touching with the COVID virus, it can absolutely last longer,” NCH Dr. Benjamin Abo said. “We need to be ready for it.”

Abo says there is some truth to it.

“The newer studies in terms of how long the virus lasts, I think it’s true the initial ones were from when it was really hot summer and really hot temperatures, which makes a difference,” Abo said.

But it also comes down to temperature. Scientists found, in 68 degrees, the virus can last up to four weeks. But at 86 degrees the virus’ survival rate drops to seven days and at 104 degrees only 24 hours, which makes people in Southwest Florida feel a little better.

“I’m not worried at all anymore,” Kelly said.

“We’re not going to change anything,” Jim Long said.

The Australian study also shows the type of surface makes a difference as well, not just the temperature. The virus showed it survived for a shorter period of time on surfaces such as cotton.

But Dr. Abo said precautions, regardless of geographic location, are necessary for all.

“We can’t let our guard down,” Abo said. “I think that given the temperature drop even in Florida, I’m worried about seeing numbers of COVID case increase up north as well as down here.”

MORE: CBSN – Study finds COVID-19 coronavirus can survive 28 days on some surfaces