Dear Dr. Roach: There is much information about the spread of COVID germs from coughing, sneezing, speaking, etc. However, I have not seen anything about two other ways that could also spread the germs. Could you please address these in your column?
1. Spitting: My husband (and many others) spits on the ground frequently, especially during exercise.
2. Disposal of tissues: After my husband blows his nose, he will drop them on the floor and build a pile to take to the trash when he gets up. He also will drop them on the floor of the car below his seat until he gets back home.
I have asked him to refrain from both of these practices, but he continues. I also think these two unsanitary practices spread other germs as well. Please clarify. — Anon.
Answer: That’s not merely unpleasant, it is a possible way of transmitting viruses. It also fails any basic level of acceptable behavior.
Viruses can live for long periods of time in wet conditions, such as a wet tissue. Once completely dry, viruses become noninfectious within hours (or possibly a few days), but cleaning with soap and water or cleaning fluids is effective at disinfecting surfaces.
If my opinion is helpful, I will certainly say that hygiene and politeness require that he dispose of any used tissues in the trash can immediately, and that spitting is both rude and potentially dangerous during the pandemic.