Direct Contact
According to Flu.gov, a stomach virus, like the influenza virus, is most commonly transmitted when airborne droplets are sprayed out of the mouth when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Typically, when one or more droplets make contact with the nose or mouth of a healthy individual, she will become infected. This is the primary cause of contagion in schools, workplaces and in other public environments.
Environmental Surfaces
When an infected person coughs or sneezes onto a surface like a table, chair or car steering wheel, the virus is then deposited by the mist or droplets of fluid that escapes the mouth at that time. Since viruses can live two or more hours at room temperature, when another person touches the contaminated surface and then touches his eyes or nose, the virus can spread. Disinfecting common areas is key to preventing the spread of the stomach virus.
Secondary Surface Contacts
When an infected person coughs or sneezes into her hand and then touches a surface or object she can then deposit the virus onto that object. This is common for door knobs, phones, remote controls and similar objects that are commonly shared, and is a prime example of the importance of hand washing during a virus outbreak.
