How long would aerosolized smallpox virus from a bioweapon persist in the environment?
Aerosolized smallpox virus may persist for up to 24 hours, or somewhat longer under favorable conditions. However, the virus can be destroyed within 6 hours under conditions where there is high temperature and high humidity. In the presence of ultraviolet light, it will die even more quickly. However, it is believed that the smallpox virus can remain viable in contaminated laundry for extended periods.
