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  • How long can pink eye "live" on surfaces?


    Question:

    How long can pink eye "live" on surfaces?


    Answer:

    This depends on what caused the pink eye and the conditions of the surface on which it lives. However, most bacteria are not able to survive after 2 to 8 hours, though some last for 2 days or more. Viruses tend to be more hardy, with most surviving 24 to 48 hours. Some viruses can last up to 8 weeks. Cleaning properly with bleach or other antimicrobial cleaner would destroy most bacteria and viruses immediately.

    This question was originally answered on Mar. 16, 2015.


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