During flu season, it’s natural to be cautious about the spread of germs. The influenza virus is highly contagious, passing easily from person to person through coughing, sneezing, and close contact. But what about surfaces– like doorknobs, countertops, or your cell phone? Can touching these items after someone with the flu handled them make you sick? The short answer is yes. Flu viruses can survive on surfaces for a period of time, but exactly how long depends on a few things. Understanding how flu germs behave outside of the body can help you take steps to protect yourself and your family.
For same-day flu treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana. Our team provides quality treatments for a range of illnesses, including the flu. We’re open 7 days a week– simply walk in or plan your visit in advance below!
How Long Flu Viruses Last on Different Surfaces
- Hard, nonporous surfaces (like stainless steel, plastic, and glass): Flu viruses can survive for up to 24-48 hours. This includes common items like doorknobs, elevator buttons, remote controls, and smartphones.
- Soft, porous surfaces (like fabric, tissues, or paper): The virus usually lasts for only a few minutes to hours, making it less likely to spread infection.
- Hands and skin: Flu viruses typically survive for only a few minutes, but because people frequently touch their faces, this is still one of the most common ways the flu spreads.
It’s important to note that while the virus may remain on a surface for a certain amount of time, its ability to cause infection decreases as hours pass.
How The Flu Spreads From Surfaces
Transmission usually happens when you touch a contaminated surface and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. For example, if someone with the flu sneezes into their hand, opens a door, and you touch that same doorknob soon after, you could pick up the virus. Because flu viruses can remain active for hours, frequent hand hygiene and regular cleaning of shared surfaces are key to reducing the spread.
Tips to reduce flu germs on surfaces include:
- Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Using alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available
- Cleaning high-touch surfaces daily, especially in shared spaces
- Avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands
- Staying home when sick to reduce the chance of spreading germs to others
When To Visit Urgent Care
Even with careful prevention, flu cases still happen every season. Visit urgent care if you or your child develop:
- Sudden high fever with body aches and fatigue
- A persistent cough or sore throat that worsens
- Severe dehydration or dizziness
- Trouble breathing or chest discomfort
- Flu symptoms that last longer than a week without improvement
Medical providers can perform a flu test and, if positive, may prescribe antiviral medication within the first 48 hours to shorten illness and ease severity.
Get a Walk-In Flu Shot & Flu Symptom Relief at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana
Flu viruses can survive on surfaces for up to two days, especially on hard, nonporous objects like phones and doorknobs. While surface spread is possible, most infections occur through close contact and respiratory droplets. Practicing good hygiene– frequent handwashing, disinfecting high-touch items, and staying home when sick– is the best way to protect yourself during flu season. If you’re experiencing flu symptoms, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana for fast testing, treatment, and peace of mind. Your health is our top priority! Early intervention of the flu can help alleviate symptoms, prevent complications, and promote a faster recovery. If you have any additional questions about flu symptoms or treatment, please contact our medical office directly at (303) 343-6000.
