Concerns About Catching Viruses from Touching the Nose - Otolaryngology

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Cold-related issues


Hello doctor, today I accidentally touched the skin around my right nostril with my thumb while using a tissue to wipe my nose, after having used unwashed hands (which had touched the office computer and a backpack that came into contact with the bus seat).
Immediately after, I used alcohol to clean the area twice, but I am still very worried that I may have inhaled a virus and could contract an infectious disease such as COVID-19, a cold, or the flu.
I just had a cold last week and I'm concerned about getting infected again.
Could you please tell me how likely it is to contract an infectious disease from touching the skin around my nostril? Thank you for your response, and I appreciate your hard work!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/29

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology


Hello, if your immune system is functioning normally, you are unlikely to get infected.
However, if you have symptoms, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for an examination.

Reply Date: 2024/04/29

More Info


When it comes to concerns about catching viruses from touching the nose, it's essential to understand the transmission pathways of various viruses, including those that cause respiratory illnesses like COVID-19, the common cold, and influenza.
Firstly, the primary mode of transmission for respiratory viruses is through respiratory droplets that are expelled when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land on surfaces, and if someone touches those surfaces and then touches their face, particularly their mouth, nose, or eyes, they can potentially introduce the virus into their body. However, the risk of infection through indirect contact, such as touching the skin around the nose, is generally lower than direct contact with mucous membranes.

In your case, you mentioned that you used unwashed hands that had previously touched surfaces like an office computer and a bus seat. After that, you touched the area around your nostrils while using a tissue. While it is theoretically possible for viruses to be transferred from your hands to your nose, several factors influence the likelihood of infection:
1. Virus Viability on Surfaces: Different viruses have varying lifespans on surfaces. For instance, SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, can survive on plastic and stainless steel for up to 72 hours, but its infectiousness diminishes over time. The risk of transmission decreases significantly if the virus has been on a surface for an extended period.

2. Hand Hygiene: You mentioned that you immediately used alcohol to disinfect your hands after the incident. This is a crucial step in reducing the risk of infection. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are effective at killing many types of germs, including viruses, as long as they contain at least 60% alcohol.

3. Immune Response: If you have a healthy immune system, your body is generally capable of fighting off many pathogens. If you were recently ill, your immune system might still be in a heightened state of alert, which could provide some additional protection.

4. Symptoms and Monitoring: Since you recently had a cold, it's important to monitor for any new symptoms that may arise. If you develop symptoms consistent with COVID-19, influenza, or another respiratory illness, it would be prudent to get tested and consult a healthcare professional.

5. Environmental Factors: The risk of infection can also depend on the viral load present in the environment. If there were no infected individuals nearby when you touched your nose, the likelihood of encountering a sufficient viral load to cause infection is significantly reduced.

In summary, while there is a theoretical risk of catching a virus from touching the area around your nose with unwashed hands, the actual risk is relatively low, especially given your immediate disinfection efforts. If you remain vigilant about hand hygiene and monitor for symptoms, you can further mitigate your risk of infection. If you have ongoing concerns or develop symptoms, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and potential testing.

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