How can members of my household use disinfectants properly to control COVID-19 if a family member is asthmatic or has other chronic respiratory disease?
EPA is aware of concerns for people with underlying medical conditions, such as asthma or other respiratory illnesses, which could be exacerbated by exposure to disinfectants.
If you are concerned about this, talk to your health care provider and:
- Always follow the label — this applies to everyone. Use only the recommended amounts and follow procedures for use.
- Use products that could reduce your inhalation exposure, such as wipes or dampened towels, to disinfect surfaces. These options will substantially lower inhalation exposure compared to sprays, which generate aerosols.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling these products, and after contact with any surfaces that may be contaminated with COVID-19.
Return to Frequent Questions about Disinfectants and Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Additional resources:
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s Guidance on Cleaning and Disinfecting
- National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC)’s Information on Minimizing Exposure Risk
- NPIC’s Reducing Disinfectant Exposure in the Workplace Video
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