CDC: Coronavirus ‘Does Not Spread Easily’ On Contaminated Surfaces

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), per their website, now says the novel coronavirus “does not spread easily” from touching surfaces or objects but health officials warn against not continuing current COVID-19 precautions.

The federal health agency changed its guidelines from early March that said it “may be possible” to spread the virus from contaminated surfaces. The CDC also said the virus does not easily spread from animals to people, or from people to animals.

“COVID-19 is a new disease and we are still learning about how it spreads. It may be possible for COVID-19 to spread in other ways, but these are not thought to be the main ways the virus spreads,” according to the CDC.

The CDC said the virus that causes a COVID-19 infection, SARS-CoV-2, “is spreading very easily and sustainably between people.”

The CDC did, however, did say the coronavirus does spread person-to-person, noting the virus that causes a COVID-19 infection, SARS-CoV-2, “is spreading very easily and sustainably between people.”

On their website, the CDC says the virus primarily spreads between people:

• Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet)
• Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks
• These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs
• COVID-19 may be spread by people who are not showing symptoms

The website https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/how-covid-spreads.html also says: The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. You can take steps to slow the spread.

• Maintain good social distance (about 6 feet). This is very important in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.