Properties of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus

General
The SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for the Covid-19 pandemic is an RNA virus 0.06–0.14 μm in size. In comparison, the HIV measures 0.12 μm, the HBV measures 0.04 μm, and bacteria about 0.30 μm. The RNA of SARS-CoV-2 is very long (30 kb), making it the largest RNA virus known so far, larger than flu and previous SARS viruses [12]. In infected patients it is found in the oropharynx, the respiratory tract and the whole of the digestive tract. It is not found in urine or cerebrospinal fluid.

Ultrastructure
Like other coronaviruses, SRAS-CoV-2 is made up of four proteins [13], [14].
Spike (S) protein forms the namesake crown-like protuberances that are essential to attach the virus to the host cell and determine which cells it targets. Envelope (E) protein forms the envelope. Membrane (M) protein forms the membrane. Nucleocapsid (N) protein protects the viral RNA. Proteins S, E and M together enclose the virus.
Once the virus has penetrated the host cell, its RNA is released, and copies are produced. The resulting virions burst out and spread to other cells, where the process is repeated.

Survival of the virus outside an infected organism [15], [16]
Coronaviruses remain infectious for 2–3 h in air, and up to 9 days on smooth non-porous surfaces (stainless steel, plastic, ceramics, glass). By contrast, they do not survive on copper, brass or bronze, which are biocidal.
SARS-CoV-2 has a half-life (50% of viruses inactivated) of 13 h on stainless steel and 16 h on polypropylene. The virus is short-lived on paper and most non-waterproof textiles.
SRAS-CoV-2 is broken down by soap, ethanol-containing gels and solutions (62–71% ethanol), and household disinfectants such as hypochlorite bleach (diluted to 0.1%).
No contamination of HCPs by SARS-CoV-2 during a laparoscopy has yet been reported.
Although the strength of evidence is still low, cautionary measures are in order. All the available scientific and clinical data must be used to ensure the protection of HCPs and prevent viral contamination.