So We Need As Much Disinfectant Now?

An entire year has passed since the first official responses to COVID-19 began. You may remember the term “flattening the curve.” You may remember photos of ICUs in Italy being overwhelmed. Most likely, you have a clear memory of the dire concerns at the onset of the pandemic.

One of those concerns was whether the virus spreads via surfaces and not just airborne transmission.

Many epidemiologists spent considerable time answering questions about washing the outside of food cans, wiping down public benches, and even disinfecting the mail.

Does the evidence support these actions especially now that we have 12 months of history with this COVID-19 pandemic?

What question is the right one to ask? Is it whether the virus can spread via surface transmission? Most likely, it can. However, the right question is to ask the extent of the role of surface contact has. What is the likelihood of catching COVID-19 through surface transmission? This is the crucial question.