Can I use fogging, fumigation, or electrostatic spraying or drones to help control COVID-19?

Unless the pesticide product label specifically includes disinfection directions for fogging, fumigation, wide-area or electrostatic spraying, or application via drones (i.e., unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV)), EPA does not recommend using these methods to apply disinfectants. EPA has not evaluated the product’s safety and efficacy for methods not addressed on the label.

See EPA's guidance on adding directions for indoor use with electrostatic sprayers to products intended to kill SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). For now, the CDC recommends cleaning contaminated surfaces with liquid disinfectant products to prevent the spread of disease. Read CDC's recommendations.

As new data emerge, EPA may consider allowing registrants to add directions for use with UAV to the labels of disinfectants products for large, indoor areas (e.g., stadiums, arenas). UAV application would be limited to surfaces specified on the label (e.g., hard nonporous surfaces). EPA may require efficacy data or standardized label language to protect human health. Registrants are encouraged to contact EPA to request pre-submission discussions for these types of submissions.

A disinfectant product’s safety and effectiveness may change based on how you use it. If a pesticide product’s label does not include disinfection directions for use with fogging, fumigation, wide-area or electrostatic spraying, or application via UAV, EPA has not reviewed any data on whether the product is safe and effective when used by those methods.

Return to Frequent Questions about Disinfectants and Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Can I use fogging, fumigation, or electrostatic spraying or drones to help control COVID-19?

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