Question

how long does the flu virus survive outside of the human host?

Answer 1

Flu viruses cannot last for weeks or even days, outside the human host. That’s because they are unable to bear the harsh conditions of the dry, outside world. Generally Viruses can remain active longer on stainless steel, plastic and hard surfaces than on fabric and other soft surfaces. There are some other factors which also determine how long flu virus survive outside human host i.e the amount of virus deposited on a surface, the temperature and humidity of the environment.

Viruses that has the ability to infect human can be active on most non-porous metal and plastic surfaces , such as aluminium and computer keyboards for nine hours. But they can live only for four hours on fabrics, soft toys and wooden surfaces.

There is a possibility of getting infected when after handling an object an infected person sneezed or coughed on a few moments ago. Viruses can also be spread through handshake or breathing in from a cough or sneeze of an infected person. The best way we can avoid flu virus is to wash our hands frequently with soap and water or with an alcohol-based sanitizer. It's been advised not to touch our nose, mouth and eyes or all over face.