REALM Project

Cleaning and Disinfection Considerations

This guide synthesizes CDC resources on how to clean and disinfect public spaces. SARS-CoV-2 is generally understood to spread primarily through virus-containing water droplets expelled from infected persons, and less frequently through breathing in aerosolized virus or touching objects that are contaminated with virus-containing droplets. However, in addition to social distancing, practicing prevention hygiene, and following public health guidelines, reducing the risk of exposure to COVID-19 by cleaning and disinfecting can be an important part of reopening your facility.

Coronaviruses on surfaces and objects can die naturally within hours to days. View the REALM test results for information on how long the virus lasts on different materials. Warmer temperatures and exposure to sunlight can reduce the time the virus survives on surfaces and objects. 

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Last update: February 3, 2021