Two recent studies report that the Omicron variant of the coronavirus survived at least twice as long on surfaces like plastic, paper and skin compared to the original Wuhan strain.Infections were more likely to occur by inhaling the virus as increased stability helped the Omicron variant survive longer in the air, making it more contagious.

In the first study, researchers in Japan collected and grew all the major coronavirus variants of concernin cells in a lab, concentrating and purifying them and finally spreading them on squares of plastic and skin from human cadavers in warm air at about 77 degrees. It was observed that the Omicron survived on the plastic surface for 193 hours, which was approximately 8 days after it was spread, which was much higher than other variants. While on the skin, the Omicron couldbe detected even after 21 hours.

In the second study, researchers in Hong Kong spread samples of the original strain and the Omicron variant on squares of stainless steel, plastic, glass and paper. The Omicron variant was detected even after 7 dayson those surfaces and longer on tissue and printer papers. This study was done for the BA.1 strain of Omicron and not the newer BA.2.

Hence, experts are of the view that hand hygiene and disinfection of contaminated surfaces are very important. Omicron seems to be stronger than earlier variants and hence proper ventilation, including air filtration, was necessary along with frequent hand washing with soap and water which prevents the virus from entering the body from contaminated surfaces. (CNN, March 18, 2022)