[melaniejs (OP)]

Trent wonders:

What's the survival rate of viruses/bacteria on cloth vs hard surfaces like door handles? How far can they travel? If I sneeze elbow high and use a corner of my sleeve that dangles down at my wrist, am I in trouble? Do they survive the wash? Is there a best practices for what to do when you have to scratch?

Anyone here knows?

[PamelaParker]

It depends on the type of the virus. [Spammy link removed]

[Colin2B]

Recent test have been released ahead of peer review, but they indicate up to four hours on copper, 24 hours on cardboard and 2-3 days on plastic and stainless steel.
More info may be available as research continues.
Bear in mind however that this is not considered to be the main method of transmission, but still worth taking precautions by washing hands before touching face or eating.