The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the indefinite extension of their Emerging Viral Pathogens (EVP) Guidance for COVID-19, allowing approval of certain off-label surface disinfectant claims stating that the product is effective against SARS-CoV-2.

Emerging viral pathogens are one type of emerging infectious disease. According to NIAID, emerging infectious diseases “…have newly developed in a population or have existed but are rapidly increasing in incidence or geographic range.” Because these types of pathogens are rare and concerning, the EPA created a process in 2016 to allow certain existing disinfectant-labeled products to apply for an emerging viral pathogen claim.

The EPA recognizes the vast concerns surrounding SARS-CoV-2, and the EVP Guidance extension is a means to help mitigate viral spread and illness from COVID-19. Approved claims are added to List N: Disinfectants for Coronavirus (COVID-19), a compiled list of over 500 EPA approved virucidal claims that kill all strains and variants of SARS-CoV-2.

In order to determine if an EPA registered surface disinfectant is eligible, the product must adhere to Section III of the guidance. Consulting an EPA regulatory expert is recommended to ensure compliance.