28 Days Covid-19 virus 'survives on some surfaces for 28 days' The virus responsible for Covid-19 can remain infectious on surfaces such as banknotes, phone screens and stainless steel for 28 days, researchers say. The findings from Australia's national science agency suggest SARS-Cov-2 can survive for far longer than thought. However, the experiment was conducted in the dark. UV light has already been shown to kill the virus. Some experts have also thrown doubt on the actual threat posed by surface transmission in real life. The virus is most commonly transmitted when people cough, sneeze or talk. Previous laboratory studies have found that SARS-Cov-2 can survive for two to three days on bank notes and glass, and up to six days on plastic and stainless steel, although results vary. The latest research from Australian agency CSIRO found the virus was "extremely robust," surviving for 28 days on smooth surfaces such as glass found on mobile phone screens and both plastic and paper banknotes, when kept at 20C (68F), which is about room temperature. In comparison, the flu virus can survive in the same circumstances for 17 days. "Establishing how long the virus really remains viable on surfaces enables us to more accurately predict and mitigate its spread, and do a better job of protecting our people," said CSIRO chief executive Dr Larry Marshall.

penn Pa. reports 1,742 new cases of COVID-19, largest one-day spike since April HARRISBURG, Pa. -- The Department of Health confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., October 10, that there were 1,742 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 171,050. The 1,742 positive cases were the largest number of one-day reported cases since the state confirmed 1,751 cases back on April, 10. The number of tests administered within the last 7 days between October 3 and October 9 is 230,104 with 8,204 positive cases. There were 47,337 test results reported to the department through 10:00 p.m., October 8. There are 8,344 total deaths attributed to COVID-19, an increase of 36 new deaths reported.