Keys
Studies have not yet been conclusive in determining how long the novel coronavirus can survive on surfaces. Apparently, a coronavirus can last from 3 hours to 9 days, depending on the strain, compared to the flu which lasts around 24 hours.
When it comes to keys, given that they are made of metal, they can presumably host the coronavirus between 48 hours and 72 hours. We’re not quite there with technology for all of us to have smart homes and no longer use keys, therefore, we still have to carry them around for a while. To prevent them from becoming virus-spreaders, it’s best to wipe your keys with an alcohol solution that contains at least 70% alcohol. In these circumstances, alcohol can really be useful!
ATMs
Medical experts warn people to be cautious, particularly with what they do with their hands after pulling out a wad of cash or making a withdrawal from an ATM.
“ATMs, as far as we know — and we’re certainly not the experts on communicable diseases — are going to be as much at risk as anything else you might encounter out shopping or going about your daily business,” said David Tente, executive director for the U.S. and the Americas at the ATM Industry Association.
In most countries, ATMs have started to be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized (much more than usual) to prevent the spreading of the coronavirus. However, according to Daniel Berry, CEO at Duke University Federal Credit Union in Durham, N.C., there may only be so much authorities can do.
“To be perfectly honest, if the first person after the cleaning has the virus, there’s still a risk there,” he said. “Same as if somebody cleans down the [teller counter] and the next person has the virus. Yes, it helped, but how much? Unfortunately, we don’t know.” That’s why it’s also up to us to protect ourselves and those around us. One way would be to either wear gloves while using the machine, or thoroughly wash our hands as soon as possible after touching ATMs or even grocery store pin pads.
One way to avoid ATMs altogether is to opt for a contactless payment system. “As the coronavirus spreads, this is a good opportunity for consumers to take advantage of their bank’s digital tools,” recommends Bob Neuhaus, vice president of Global Financial Services at J.D. Power.
2 thoughts on “8 Ordinary Objects You Should Avoid Touching During Coronavirus Outbreak”
thanks for the good advice
Most of these, I already knew. I get very upset when I have to sign for a transaction with the special pen provided with the machine. The drug department at Price Chopper is the only place that offers hand sanitation lotion on the counter by that machine. Not so in the grocery department. I try to have my own bottle handy to use right away when submitting a check or using a credit card.
I am working at the polls this next presidential election and for the first time, we will be using the electronic signatures. How we are to work with the pen is that each worker keeps their own pen. The one to be used by the voters is to sanitized after each use. That could be another option for the stores, banks, etc.