COLD-GERMS.txt Cold germs can live on surfaces for up to one week, but they lose effectiveness after the first 24 hours. Cold germs on your hands can live for up to one hour. The influenza (flu) virus can live for up to 24 to 48 hours on hard surfaces. The coronavirus can live from a few hours to a few days. ... You do, or do not do,. things at your own risk - I am not responsible I have no medical training of any kid I am just supplying what seems to be reputable information. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24495-germs