EPA Releases Updated Lists of Disinfectants for Emerging Viral Pathogens Including Ebola

Released on October 19, 2022

On October 12, 2022, EPA triggered its emerging viral pathogen (EVP) guidance in support of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) response to the Ebola virus cases in western Uganda. With EPA’s EVP guidance, additional disinfectants, for which emerging viral pathogen claims have been approved, can be used against the Ebola virus.

EPA developed its EVP guidance to facilitate the availability of EPA-registered disinfectants for use against emerging viral pathogens. EPA divides viruses into three tiers based on how difficult they are to kill. The Ebola virus falls into Tier 1, the category of viruses that are easiest to kill. Thus, EPA expects disinfectants qualified for use against any emerging viral pathogens in Tiers 1, 2, and 3 to be effective against the Ebola virus when used according to the label use directions.

The use of products with EVP claims supplements but does not replace other infection control practices. Individuals should follow CDC, state, and local public health guidelines.  

EPA’s website provides the list of products registered for use against Ebola and list of disinfectants for emerging viral pathogens.