The virus that causes COVID-19 can remain active on smooth surfaces like cell phones, metal surfaces and paper cash for any longer than the flu virus, as per scientists from Australia’s national science agency. They found that it can stay feasible for as long as 28 days, though in a controlled environment. Under similar conditions, the flu infection stays irresistible for only 17 days, as indicated by the investigation.

The group said the research demonstrates that the Covid is “extremely robust” contrasted with different viruses. “These findings demonstrate SARS-CoV-2 can remain infectious for significantly longer time periods than generally considered possible,” the study concludes. (Cloth and other porous surfaces can carry irresistible virus for simply half the time, or around 14 days.)

While it shows the significance of cleaning and purifying phones and different surfaces, the investigation accompanies some huge caveats. It was directed at a steady 68 degree F temperature in dark conditions to negate the impacts of UV light, a long way from real-world conditions. The trial likewise didn’t use new mucous — ordinarily present with viruses on surfaces — which contain white cells and antibodies. “In my opinion infectious viruses will only persist for hours in mucus on surfaces rather than days,” Cardiff University professor Ron Eccles told the BBC.

Recently, experts have additionally minimized the danger of Covid transmission from surfaces. As per the center for disease control (CDC), “spread from touching surfaces is not thought to be a common way that COVID-19 spreads.” Rather, the most common vectors are respiratory droplets produced by coughing or sneezing. New guidelines also suggest that it can also be transmitted by airborne transmission in “poorly ventilated and enclosed spaces that often involved activities that caused heavier breathing, like singing or exercise.”