Can Covid-19 be transmitted to you through your newspaper?

Absolutely not.

Newspapers are safe to touch. There is no evidence whatsoever of them or any other types of printed paper being carriers of Covid-19.

According to the World Health Organisation, "the likelihood of an infected person contaminating commerical goods is low and the risk of catching the virus that cause Covid-19 from a package that has been moved, travelled, and exposed to different conditions and temperatures is also low."

The US-based Center for Disease Control and Prevention has advised consumers that the virus has "a very low risk" of spreading on packages, newspapers and other mail due to the "poor survivability of these coronaviruses on surfaces".

Newspaper distributors and sellers have been advised nationwide by the All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) to be especially mindful of their hygiene during the distribution process. Additionally, newspaper establishments have implemented strict sanitisation measures.

However, it's always good to be extra careful. So, as a precaution, wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds after reading a newspaper (as you would sometimes do to remove an ink stain that have rubbed on) and that's it!

Keep reading your newspapers to stay aware because in these trying times, when things are spinning out of control, newspapers are particularly important. In times of crisis and grave uncertainty, you need news you can trust. Credible news, not fake news.

Stay home. Stay safe. And yes, above all, read safe.