COVID-19 Risks from Package Handling and Airborne Transmission

Q: COVID-19 Risks from Package Handling and Airborne Transmission

Hello： If the sender is confirmed to have COVID-19 and coughs or touches secretions while handling the package, it is indeed possible for the virus to remain on the package. <br>However, current research indicates that the virus can survive outside the human body for a maximum of

COVID-19 Consultation

Hello, doctor.
I saw a news report stating that when unpacking packages, one should wear a mask because viruses can become airborne and enter the respiratory tract, posing a risk of infection.
I'm unsure about the validity of this claim regarding airborne transmission.
The day before yesterday, when I unpacked a clothing order, I disinfected the outer box with alcohol, but I didn't wear a mask while opening the cardboard box and inhaled a large breath of air from inside the box.
I would like to know if the sender tested positive for COVID-19, is it possible that the virus could be present inside the cardboard box? Do you think inhaling a large breath of air from inside the box poses a risk?

vivi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/08

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: If the sender is confirmed to have COVID-19 and coughs or touches secretions while handling the package, it is indeed possible for the virus to remain on the package.
However, current research indicates that the virus can survive outside the human body for a maximum of 2-3 days, so by the time the package reaches you, the virus may have already died.
Additionally, the risk of infection depends on the viral load; if the package does contain the virus, the quantity is likely to be low.
Therefore, the probability of contracting COVID-19 from unpacking a package is very low.
If you are truly concerned, you can perform a rapid test.
It is also advisable to continue wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, and avoiding touching your eyes, mouth, and nose with unwashed hands.

Reply Date: 2022/04/08

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks associated with COVID-19 transmission through package handling and airborne particles, it's important to consider several factors based on current scientific knowledge.

Firstly, the primary mode of transmission for the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, is through respiratory droplets. These droplets are expelled when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can also be transmitted via contact with surfaces contaminated with the virus, although this is considered a less common route of transmission. Research indicates that the virus can survive on various surfaces for a limited time, typically ranging from a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the material. For example, studies have shown that the virus can remain viable on cardboard for up to 24 hours.

In your scenario, if the package was sent by someone who was infected, and they coughed or sneezed on it or touched it with contaminated hands, there is a possibility that the virus could be present on the surface of the package. However, by the time the package reaches you, especially if it has been in transit for more than a day, the likelihood of viable virus remaining on the surface decreases significantly.
Regarding your concern about inhaling air from inside the package, the risk of airborne transmission in this context is very low. While it is theoretically possible for aerosolized particles to be present, the concentration of the virus in the air within a sealed package would likely be minimal. Moreover, the virus requires a certain viral load to establish an infection, and the chances of inhaling a sufficient quantity of viable virus from a package are extremely low.

To further mitigate any potential risk when handling packages, it is advisable to follow these precautions:
1. Wear a Mask: While the risk from packages is low, wearing a mask can provide an additional layer of protection, especially in situations where you might be in close proximity to others or in enclosed spaces.

2. Disinfect Surfaces: As you mentioned, using alcohol-based disinfectants on the exterior of packages can help reduce any potential viral load on surfaces.

3. Wash Your Hands: After handling packages, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

4. Avoid Touching Your Face: This is crucial as the virus can enter your body through the eyes, nose, or mouth.

5. Monitor Your Health: If you develop symptoms consistent with COVID-19 after handling packages, consider getting tested.

In summary, while there is a theoretical risk of transmission from packages, the actual risk is quite low, especially when proper precautions are taken. The focus should remain on practicing good hygiene, wearing masks in crowded or enclosed spaces, and following public health guidelines to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission in general. If you have ongoing concerns or experience symptoms, consulting with a healthcare professional is always a prudent step.

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