How long does the avian flu virus live in the environment (i.e., in dirt and other surfaces)?
The avian flu virus is capable of living in the environment (i.e., outside of an animal or human host) for up to 48 hours, depending on the temperature and moisture of the environment. In the field, AI viruses are protected by organic material such as nasal secretions or feces. Cool and moist conditions favor survival. AI viruses can remain viable in liquid manure for 105 days during the winter and in drier feces for 30-35 days at 4 C and for 7 days at 20 C.
