How does coronavirus spread? Worry about people more than surfaces, CDC says
Public health officials are still figuring out all the ways the coronavirus can spread, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say it’s most likely to happen when people are in close contact with each other.
The CDC recently updated their guidance on how researchers think the virus spreads in communities, and new information indicates it is not easily transmitted by touching surfaces.
“We are still learning about how the virus spreads and the severity of illness it causes,” the CDC said. “COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly through close contact from person-to-person. Some people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus.”
The virus can spread among those in close contact of roughly 6 feet, the CDC said. When infected people talk, cough or sneeze, they produce respiratory droplets that travel through the air around them. “These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs,” according to the CDC.
Virus less likely to spread on surfaces
The virus can potentially spread in other ways, though.
“It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. This is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads, but we are still learning more about this virus.”
Even if touching surfaces is not the main way the virus spreads, the CDC said everyone should still wash their hands regularly and “routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.”
The best way to stay safe, the CDC says, is by social distancing and staying at least 6 feet away from other people.
This story was originally published May 21, 2020 at 10:57 AM with the headline "How does coronavirus spread? Worry about people more than surfaces, CDC says."
