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Ask the Experts about Opportunistic Infections

 

How long do bloodborne diseases or communicable diseases reside on surfaces?
Nov 27, 2000

How long do communicable diseases(blood borne pathogens such as AIDS or Hepatitis) reside on surfaces, like in a medical setting were mucous or blood is exposed on surfaces or instruments??

Response from Dr. Feinberg

It depends on the pathogen (germ). Viruses, which depend on human cells to reproduce and survive, last the shortest time, typically measured in hours. Some bacteria that can form spores may survive for many years.



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