How long can strep survive on surfaces?

Answer 1

It depends on what variables you are considering: host surfaces (skin, nose, wound) or non-host surfaces (bandages, clothing, bed linens, other common contact objects such as door knobs, light switches, commodes, tub, phones, etc.) In a host surface a person can be a carrier of MRSA (colonized) and not even be aware, therefore spreading contimination quite unwittingly. Unfortunately, a carrier can host MRSA indefinately. MRSA can live on non-host surfaces for days, weeks, months depending on the environmental circumstances. These circumstances can include what other interactions the MRSA may be in contact with such as other bacteria in which that it may compete against / with thus killing MRSA or cultivating / transfering the bacteria. Most studies suggest / show that MRSA can live up to 90 days / 3 months. Thusly, this becomes a never-ending battle. What HAS been subjected may be unnoticed until days or weeks later thus cycling back the bacteria into a sterile field. Suggestions: research all of the mechanisms to rid the body, the home, the hospital etc. of MRSA, start the regiment of cleaning / sterilizing, and never stop until one has two "clean" MRSA swabs. Even then you are not gauranteed that MRSA won't return.

Answer 2

Usually not much longer than 48 hours. However it can survive longer if the circumstances are right, like Moist, warm areas with little exposure to sun light Usually not much longer than 48 hours. However it can survive longer if the circumstances are right, like Moist, warm areas with little exposure to sun light

Answer 3

The strep virus can live on clothing anywhere from a very short time up to many days. If the clothing is damp the virus will last longer than on very dry clothing. Normal laundering typically kills this bacteria; the heat of the dryer is especially effective.