I’m moving out soon and I’m thinking of moving into this beautiful pre-war building. I’m worried though about covid spreading and I’m wondering what precautions people living in apartments currently are taking.
Thing is I can find an apartment with a private entrance and in-unit wash/dryer, which would probably be better for covid, but this building is just nicer - better location, maintained better, it seems like the landlord is more present and responsive. Idk it’s a better deal, I’m just worried about covid.
Still debated, probably not a significant vector, but definitely possible: Lin, N., Zhang, B., Shi, R. et al. Decay pattern of SARS-CoV-2 RNA surface contamination in real residences. Sci Rep 14, 6190 (2024).
Key quote from conclusion:
The environmental contamination of object surfaces by SARS-CoV-2 RNA in residences of COVID-19 patients is low, but cross-contamination caused by water taps and washing basins may have hidden transmission risks. Generally, fomite transmission played a limited role in COVID-19 spread. Even the residence was contaminated by SARS-CoV-2, it was reduced by 90% three days after the patient left.
Edited to add: I mention it mostly because where I live is a high-traffic part of the building with people constantly using the elevators and opening doors. That’s why I’m still careful about it. If I lived in a lower density place I probably wouldn’t go as hard on the “no touchy” thing.
