EPA Approves Two Disinfectant Sprays to Kill COVID-19 on Surfaces

Yesterday, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved two disinfectant sprays that can kill SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The agency reports that both Lysol Disinfectant Spray and Lysol Disinfectant Max Cover Mist are effective in preventing the spread of the virus on surfaces, based on laboratory testing. Before any manufacturer can legally claim their product can kill a particular pathogen, such as SARS-CoV-2, the statement must be authorized by EPA based on a review of data as established in their Emerging Viral Pathogens guidance.

Earlier this year, the agency activated the guidance for the first time in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. The guidance allows product manufacturers to provide EPA with data, even in advance of an outbreak, that shows their products are effective against harder-to-kill viruses than SARS-CoV-2. Through this guidance and the agency’s review of newly registered products, the list of products that meet the agency’s criteria for use against SARS-CoV-2 (known as List N) includes more than 420 products. EPA expects to approve additional List N products in the coming weeks.

To learn more about safe and effective use of disinfectants, please visit https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/six-steps-safe-effective-disinfectant-use. For more general guidance on cleaning and the use of disinfectants for COVID-19, visit CDC’s website.