Which bloodborne virus can survive on surfaces outside the body for extended periods?

Hepatitis viruses are known for their resilience and ability to survive outside the human body on surfaces for extended periods of time. This characteristic poses a significant risk for transmission, particularly in environments where blood or bodily fluids may come into contact with surfaces.

Hepatitis B and C, in particular, can remain infectious on surfaces for days, or even weeks, depending on the environmental conditions. This longevity increases the potential for exposure and infection, necessitating strict infection control protocols in settings where blood exposure may occur, such as medical facilities or personal care environments.

In contrast, while HIV can also pose risks through blood exposure, it does not survive as long outside the body compared to Hepatitis. Similarly, influenza and coronavirus primarily transmit through respiratory droplets and do not exhibit the same bloodborne characteristics or durability on surfaces in terms of extended viability. Understanding the survival time of these viruses is crucial in implementing effective infection control measures.