The type of virus that is found on these toys are called enveloped viruses. These viruses come with a protective outer layer which helps them survive and infect other cells, for example Influenza virus and Coronaviruses such as SARS and MERS.
Researchers used a controlled humidity environment of 40-60% to test how long these viruses can survive on a child's plastic toy by using the enveloped bacteriophage. The study findings revealed that the virus was present 24 hours after the toy was contaminated with up to 60% humidity. In most cases 99% infectious virus eliminate within the said time period.
However, the virus became less stable after being contaminated for 10 hours at 40% humidity, which is common level indoors. The researchers said that even if only particles of the virus remained, there is still a risk of a child getting ill. Toys are one of most likely mediums for transferring viral diseases in children.
Study lead author from Georgia State University, Richard Bearden II, said that people do not think that the virus can come from a non-living object. He also explains that the most common misconception is that the virus come only from people.
However, according to Michigan State University, a virus is capable of surviving on surfaces for many weeks. When a child touches contaminated surface, the virus transfers on to their hands and then to their food or to other people. There have been studies in the past that reveal the increased possibility of viral contamination among toys that are shared in a day care facility.
"Children are vulnerable to contracting infectious disease because they put their hands and foreign objects in their mouths," according to Bearden. He also added that a child's immunity system is not fully developed to protect them from viral diseases.
