Can COVID-19 Spread on Clothes?
The rapid spread of COVID-19 has left many people wondering what elements they need to be aware of when it comes to staying safe. Is it possible to get infected by coming into contact with clothing and other surfaces? Here we will discuss if it is possible for the virus to spread on clothes, and what measures we can take to minimize risk.
How Does it Spread?
COVID-19 is transmitted through contact with an infected person, usually through droplets from coughing or sneezing. These droplets spread the virus when they settle on surfaces and someone touched them and then touched their mouth or nose.
Can It Spread on Clothing?
Since the virus is transmitted in droplets, it can potentially be spread via clothing. However, this transmission is likely uncommon due to factors such as the size of the droplets, the weight of the fabric, and the time it takes for a droplet to dry.
What Measures Can I Take to Stay Safe?
Although the risk of infection via clothing is relatively low, there are some measures you can take to minimize any risk.
- Wash Your Hands Often – Regularly washing your hands with soap and water is the most important measure you can take to protect yourself and others. This will help to remove particles of the virus from your hands, which are more likely to cause infection than clothing.
- Clean and Disinfect Surfaces Often – Make sure to regularly clean and disinfect all surfaces, including clothes, with a disinfectant approved by the EPA.
- Avoid Sharing Clothing – Despite the low risk, it is still not recommended to share clothing as it is difficult to know what surfaces the clothes could have come into contact with, and who may have touched them.
In conclusion, COVID-19 can potentially be spread on clothing, however experts agree that the risk is low. It is important to take measures such as regularly washing your hands, disinfecting surfaces, and avoiding sharing clothes to minimize any risk of infection.