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From the UK National Health Service (NHS):
"The flu virus can live on a hard surface for up to 24 hours, and a soft surface for around 20 minutes."
See the link below in the related links section to this information from NHS.
Other studies have shown that flu viruses and other microbes can "live" on money, both Coins and Paper Money, for much longer under certain conditions. Paper money had viruses viable in one study for over two weeks. See the related question section below for: "Can flu viruses be spread on money?"
In an other study, according to James Steckelberg, M.D., a disease specialist from the Mayo clinic, and other colleagues, it was found that:
The length of time that cold or flu germs can survive outside the body on an environmental surface, such as a doorknob, varies greatly. But the suspected range is from a few seconds to 48 hours - depending on the specific virus and the type of surface.
Click on the Related Link to read the rest of the article from Mayo Clinic.
Flu viruses tend to live longer on surfaces than cold viruses do. Also, it's generally believed that cold and flu viruses remain active ("live") longer on nonporous surfaces - such as plastic, metal or wood - than they do on porous surfaces - such as fabrics, skin or paper.
Although cold and flu viruses primarily spread from direct person-to-person contact, you can also become infected from contact with contaminated surfaces. The best way to avoid becoming infected with a cold or flu is to wash your hands frequently with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. See more prevention techniques in the related questions.
From the US CDC and Flu.Gov web pages:
"The H1N1 virus is new. Research is being conducted to better understand its characteristics. Studies have shown that flu viruses can survive on hard surfaces and can infect a person for up to 2 to 8 hours after being left on items like cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and desks. Frequent hand washing will help you reduce the chance of getting contamination from these common surfaces."
What else can I help you with?
How long can hiv virus live in open air?
The length of time that cold or flu germs can survive outside the body on an environmental surface, such as a doorknob, varies greatly. But the suspected range is from a few seconds to 48 hours - depending on the specific virus and the type of surface. Flu viruses tend to live longer on surfaces than cold viruses do. Also, it's generally believed that cold and flu viruses live longer on nonporous surfaces - such as plastic, metal or wood - than they do on porous surfaces - such as fabrics, skin or paper.
How long does a cold virus live in your home?
It can last up to 2 weeks. The length of time that cold or flu germs can survive outside the body on an environmental surface, such as a doorknob, varies greatly. But the suspected range is from a few seconds to 48 hours - depending on the specific virus and the type of surface. Flu viruses tend to live longer on surfaces than cold viruses do. Also, it's generally believed that cold and flu viruses live longer on nonporous surfaces - such as plastic, metal or wood - than they do on porous surfaces - such as fabrics, skin or paper.
How long does a cold virus live in a medicine bottle?
A cold virus can typical live for a day in a medicine bottle. This virus cannot last longer than this without a host.
Can a virus live in the air?
yes, but not that long, they will die out eventually.
How long does HIV virus live on surfaces from someone with HIV touching their burn wound and then the surface fax machine can I then use the fax and get the virus in a cut on my finger and get HIv?
What you describe is nearly impossible to occur.
How long does the mononucleosis virus live on surfaces?
The virus that causes mononucleosis, primarily Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), can survive on surfaces for several hours to a few days, depending on environmental conditions. However, it is generally not considered highly contagious through surfaces, as it is primarily transmitted through saliva. Proper hygiene practices, such as regular cleaning and handwashing, can help reduce the risk of transmission.
How long can the common wart virus live on a surface?
The common wart virus, caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), can survive on surfaces for several days to months, depending on the environmental conditions such as humidity and temperature. In general, the virus is more resilient in warm and moist environments. However, the risk of transmission from surfaces is considered low compared to direct skin-to-skin contact. Regular cleaning and disinfecting can help reduce the presence of the virus on surfaces.
How long does RSV live on dry surfaces?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can survive on dry surfaces for several hours, typically ranging from 6 to 8 hours, depending on the material. Hard surfaces like plastic and metal may allow the virus to remain viable for longer periods compared to soft surfaces like cloth. Proper cleaning and disinfection are essential to reduce the risk of transmission.
Can you get a cold if you put your face in the pillow of someone with the flu?
Yes. The flu virus can live for surprisingly long periods of time on inanimate objections
How long does mononucleosis germ live on surfaces?
The virus that causes mononucleosis, primarily Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), does not survive long on surfaces. It is typically inactivated within a few hours to a day, depending on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. Therefore, transmission through surfaces is considered low risk compared to direct contact with infected saliva. Proper hygiene practices, like regular handwashing, can help reduce the risk of transmission.
How long can a virus live on an inanimate object?
The lifespan of a virus on inanimate objects varies significantly depending on the type of virus and environmental conditions. Some viruses, like the flu virus, can survive for a few hours to several days on surfaces, while others, such as SARS-CoV-2, can persist for up to several days on certain materials. Factors like temperature, humidity, and the type of surface also play a crucial role in determining how long a virus can remain viable. Regular cleaning and disinfection can help reduce the risk of transmission from surfaces.
If you have the cold virus and you drink from a bottle how long until that bottle's mouthpiece no longer has the virus on it?
Probably until the person who had the virus is cured. But you never know how long bacteria can last.
