Can the Coronavirus Spread Through Newspapers?

No, writing about SARS-CoV-2 does not spread the virus itself. However, an infected person can transmit the virus through various means, including touching something like a newspaper or reading it without a mask. This transmission path has a relatively low risk, as the virus does not live on paper for long periods.

How Long Does the Coronavirus Live on Paper?

Some coronaviruses can die on paper within minutes, making the spread via newspapers unlikely in practice. Studies have shown that the virus causing Covid-19 can remain viable on surfaces like metal (e.g., doorknobs) for several days. Washing hands and hard surfaces with regular soap and water is effective in killing the virus. The risk is estimated to be rare, perhaps occurring in 1 out of every 10,000 instances. For example, if a Covid-carrier sneezes onto a kitchen worktop, and you then touch it and put your fingers in your mouth, it is possible. However, this can be easily avoided with proper hygiene measures.

How Do Newspapers Spread?

I assume you are asking if the virus can spread through newspapers. Yes, it can. The virus causing Covid-19 can remain viable on paper for anywhere from 6 to 24 hours, depending on the surface. Therefore, it is always wise to keep anything used for a while before using it again. In addition to the virus, newspapers can also spread panic, rumors, and fake news, contributing to public anxiety and misinformation.

Theoretical Risks

Theoretically, in a public transportation scenario, if an infected person reads a newspaper, coughs over it, and leaves it behind, the next person could pick up the paper to read it or move it to their seat. This would pose a risk of cross-contamination through a fomite (an inanimate object that can transfer infectious agents).

However, I would hope that no one would be so negligent as to leave a possible contaminant, or that someone would contaminate themselves by picking it up. Commuting is generally an environment full of mindless repetition, so while it is not impossible, the actual risk is low if Covid-19 hygiene measures are followed.

Practical Measures to Reduce Risk

While the risk of contracting the coronavirus from newspapers is low, there are some practical measures you can take to minimize any potential exposure:

Leave the newspaper for a couple of hours: The virus on the paper degrades over time, so waiting a short period can help. Disinfect the newspaper: Lightly spray the pages with a 60% alcohol solution for an extra layer of safety. Products like Aldi’s Anti-Bac can be effective, but be cautious to avoid over-saturating the pages which might damage the ink. Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling any surface that may have been touched by a person who may be infected.

In summary, the risk of getting the coronavirus from newspapers is mostly theoretical and very low if proper hygiene measures are taken. Keeping your hands clean and following public health guidelines can significantly reduce any potential risk.

Mask up and stay safe!