Australian study finds coronavirus can remain infectious for 28 days

Coronavirus can last on surfaces longer than previously thought

Credit: Luca Marino/Transport for London

The coronavirus can remain infectious on an array of surfaces for 28 days, according to researchers in Australia.

The study carried out by the country’s national science agency suggests the virus can survive far longer than previously believed.

Based on previous laboratory tests, it was believed that SARS-Cov-2 could survive for two to three days on glass and banknotes. On Plastic and stainless steel, the virus was considered viable for up to six days.

Australian researchers found the virus was far more robust than previously thought, although its durability diminished in warmer temperatures, according to a study published in Virology Journal.

The virus is mainly transmitted when people talk, sneeze of cough — which is why masks and social distancing are considered essential by experts.

Experts have advised that people should wash their hands thoroughly and frequently to avoid contracting the disease by touching contaminated objects.

While the Australians described their research as robust, it was criticised by Professor Ron Eccles, former director Common Cold Centre at Cardiff University,

He told the BBC: "Viruses are spread on surfaces from mucus in coughs and sneezes and dirty fingers and this study did not use fresh human mucus as a vehicle to spread the virus."