The CDC says coronavirus ‘does not spread easily’ on surfaces or objects. Here’s what we know
Recent guidance issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sheds new light on how coronavirus spreads through surfaces.
Though there is the possibility that coronavirus could be transmitted by touching a surface — and then your nose, mouth or eyes — the likelihood of that is lower than person-to-person contact, which is believed to be the primary way coronavirus is transmitted.
“COVID-19 is a new disease and we are still learning about how it spreads,” says the CDC’s recently updated guidelines.
Dr. Manisha Juthani, an infectious disease doctor and associate professor of medicine at Yale University, told USA TODAY that plenty of concern has been focused on packages and groceries during the coronavirus pandemic.
“The CDC guidelines I believe are trying to reduce fear and paranoia about methods of transmission,” she said.
More important, she says, is that “people MUST continue to maintain physical distance, wash hands, and try to avoid touching your face.” She also advises wearing masks, especially in crowded places. [Continue reading…]