Fact Check

Can Popping Bubble Wrap from China Expose You to Coronavirus?

A routine review of content labeled satire.

Published Feb. 12, 2020

 (Facebook)
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Claim:
Officials are warning that popping bubble wrap from China could expose one to coronavirus.

On Feb. 10, 2020, the North Carolina Breaking News Facebook page posted a message warning that people should not pop bubble wrap packing material because it might put them at risk of catching the coronavirus:

RALEIGH NC - DO NOT POP BUBBLE WRAP

In an era of online shopping and global shipping, a new threat has emerged. Many have wondered if they are at risk of catching the new coronavirus from a bubble wrap they receive from China.

Almost certainly yes, according to how the Coronavirus manifests itself and the duration in which it can sustain itself in enclosed environments. But what enclosed environment you ask! BUBBLE WRAP! DO NOT POP THE BUBBLE WRAP. The ambient air in those concealed bubbles could could absolutely house them virus in non viable format for up to a year.

This item was not a factual recounting of any official news or warning. The post originated with a Facebook page whose "About" block describes its output as being humorous or satirical in nature:

For background, here is why we sometimes write about satire/humor.

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David Mikkelson founded the site now known as snopes.com back in 1994.

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