Scientists found that COVID-19, known in medical circles as SARS-CoV-2) was present in aerosols for up to three hours, up to four hours on copper, up to 24 hours on cardboard and between two to three days on plastic and stainless steel. While the virus remained in the air for up to three hours, it became less infectious overtime. It was more robust on plastic and stainless steel than on copper and cardboard, with the virus being detected up to 72 hours after it was applied to the surfaces. In other news, the Government has been urged to ensure pregnant women do not lose out on maternity leave due to the coronavirus. "They need to know that the Government will back them on that as well and that they will not lose out on maternity leave due to the coronavirus."

Source: Daily Mirror March 17, 2020 22:26 UTC