If a sick person coughs on my shopping trolley, how long does the virus stay contagious on it for?

Question

Yes so basically how long does a virus like the flu etc live on a hard surface like a trolley for so that if I was to touch it I could still catch it??

Answer 1

Certain viruses, especially those that cause colds, are quite hardy and can live on a hard surface for many days.  

We all come into contact with millions and millions of bacteria and viruses every day.  The best barrier is intact skin, provided you WASH YOUR HANDS!  Yes, it really is that simple :-)  No need for special soaps or antimicrobal hand sanitizers or wearing gloves or being hyperobsessive about germs, just wash your hands, people!

Answer 2

depends what kind of viruses it is,how it can be transmitted (some you can get by breathing it in some have to be ingested) and if you touched your face/washed your hands afterwards/how healthy your immune system.

It's always good to bring some antibacterial wipes so you can clean off the handle before use.

Answer 3

People from the U.K. Rock! I love shopping trolleys :) hopefully there was not enough virus there to get sick from it and/or you can fight it off IF you got it from there. Wash them trolleys!  

Answer 4

not very long if u use purell! die germs die!

Answer 5

Viruses have lots of modes of transfer like hand transfer, through blood, and air borne. Make sure you don't touch your trolley.  

Answer 6

Cold and flu viruses are very strong they can last from seconds to years. Carry antiviral wipes with you wipe things down before you use them and in case someone coughs or ssneezes Remember to do your part by covering your coughs and sneezes as well, this should cut things down for you.

Answer 7

it could last on their for a couple of days to a week if not disinfected but if it is disinfected it could kill on the spot

Answer 8

Howard hughes?? sorry germs have dif. life spans depending on the virus/germ.