One chart shows how long the coronavirus lives on surfaces like cardboard, plastic, wood, and steel

Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

• The coronavirus typically spreads via droplets from an infected person's coughs or sneezes.
• Live coronavirus particles can survive for anywhere from three hours to seven days on surfaces, depending on the material.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

The new coronavirus typically spreads via droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The droplets carry viral particles and can land on someone else's nose or mouth or get inhaled.

But a person could potentially get the coronavirus if they touch a surface or object that has viral particles on it and then touch their mouth, nose, or eyes. The lifespan of the virus on a given surface depends on myriad factors, including the surrounding temperature, humidity, and type of surface.See the rest of the story at Business Insider

NOW WATCH: Pathologists debunk 13 coronavirus myths

See Also:

• The CDC says healthcare workers who can't get a mask should use a bandana or scarf as a 'last resort' as supplies run short
• Here's why experts are worried we won't have enough hospital beds to handle a surge of coronavirus patients
• Hospitals are making protective gear out of office supplies and doctors are reusing face masks as supplies dwindle of crucial equipment