ACMT & PEHSU Safer Disinfectant Use Mini Web Series FAQs

Disinfection and Sterilization

One component of the COVID-19 pandemic response is the use of cleaning and disinfecting agents to decrease potential fomite-related transmission. There are some important differences between the various physical or chemical agents, and safety implications related to the intended applications and use of these agents; many terms are frequently confused. Sterilization and Disinfection are terms that apply to agents used to treat materials - not people; and vary by intended use of the device or equipment. On the December 9, 2020 webinar, Dr. David Weber from the University of North Carolina Medical Center provided a detailed presentation focusing on use of disinfectants in healthcare facilities, emphasizing the susceptibility of SARS-CoV-2 as an enveloped virus. Sanitizers – which can be used on intact human skin - will be covered on a future webinar, as will other special application settings other than healthcare facilities. See below for Disinfectant FAQs.

FAQs - Disinfection and Sterilization

Last updated: January 15, 2021 

 

 

Series Co-Hosts

American College of Medical Toxicology (ACMT) 
Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Units (PEHSU)

 

  

Disclaimer:

This was supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and funded (in part) by the cooperative agreement award number 6 NU61TS000296-02-01 from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).

Acknowledgement: ATSDR does not endorse the purchase of any commercial products or services mentioned in PEHSU publications.