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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
World
Jess Flaherty

Government's urgent warning on litter link to coronavirus

Downing Street has issued a warning to the public to pick up their litter as it can spread coronavirus.

The warmer weather has seen people flock to beaches and parks but often, litter and rubbish is left behind.

On the official government website, it states the main route of transmission is from cough and sneeze droplets.

These droplets fall on people in the vicinity and can be directly inhaled or picked up on the hands and transferred when someone touches their face.

The virus can live on surfaces and objects for a number of hours, depending on circumstances like what surface the virus is on and whether it has been exposed to sunlight.

Under most circumstances, the amount of infectious virus on any contaminated surfaces is likely to have decreased significantly by 24 hours, and even more so by 48 hours.

But it still poses a risk.

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Litter left behind could spread the deadly virus if it were contaminated and someone unknowingly touched it or picked it up to put it in the bin.

On the official Downing Street Instagram page, it posted a picture of litter with words emblazoned across it.

The words read: "Don't eat and drop. Dispose of your litter. It isn't difficult."

Captioning the image, Downing Street was clear on its stance and said: "Litter can spread the virus.

"Put it in the bin or take it home with you. Keep your community clean and safe."

Many people commented on the post agreeing with the guidance, with some suggesting fines or prosecution to be brought in for those caught littering.

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