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COVID-19 Research

EPA researchers are building on an expansive body of world-class research by applying that knowledge to reduce the risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. This research will help states, tribes, local, and territorial governments, including public health agencies, guide homeowners, business owners, and workplace managers to reduce the risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2. This page provides updates on EPA's research efforts, including data and results. 

Visit our Emergency Response Webinar Series page for the schedule of upcoming COVID-19 research webinars. 

  

Aerosols

Interior of a public transit vehicle with scientists testing disinfection practices

  • Modeling transport of viral aerosols in an office setting
  • Modeling transport of viral aerosols in mass transit
  • Evaluating pesticide devices and products

Community Exposure

Image of a water treatment plant

  • Monitoring virus levels in sewage
  • Standardizing a method to assess virus in sewage
  • Developing a salivary test to assess community exposure

Surfaces

A scientist processing samples in the lab
  • Evaluating residual antimicrobial coatings
  • Developing a rapid viability-reverse transcriptase PCR method
  • Evaluating alternative disinfection devices
  • Evaluating effectiveness of electrostatic sprayers

Masks & PPE

a face mask

  • Evaluating masks and facial coverings with and without modifications
  • Disinfecting PPE for reuse

Webinar Recordings

  • COVID-19: Aerosol Treatment Devices & Ozone Disinfection (August 2021)
  • COVID-19: Electrostatic Sprayers and Foggers for Disinfectant Application (July 2021)
  • Reducing Environmental Exposure to SARS-CoV-2 - An Overview of Findings (June 2021)
  • COVID-19: Cleaning & Disinfecting of PPE for Effective Reuse (April 2021)
  • COVID-19 UV-C Devices and Methods for Surface Disinfection (January 2021)
  • COVID-19 Long Lasting Disinfectants (August 2020)
  • EPA Expands Research on COVID-19 in the Environment (May 2020)

Science Matters Newsletter

Evaluating Electrostatic Sprayers for Disinfectant Application

Evaluating SARS-CoV-2 in the Environment

Testing Effectiveness of Face Masks, Disinfection Methods Against COVID-19

Aerosol Transport and Mitigation Measures to Reduce COVID-19 Transmission

Assessing Virus Levels in Sewage for Community Level Screening

Related Resources

  • Emergency Response Research Webinar Series
  • COVID-19 Researcher Profiles
  • Coronavirus Information
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Last updated on February 14, 2022