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Arlington, VA — The American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC), The National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC), Oregon Poison Center, and Virginia Poison Center will host a “disinfectants Q&A” via Facebook on April 30, 2020 at 2pm ET.

As Americans navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces continues to be an important part of preventing the spread. It can be difficult to determine the difference between facts and myths regarding COVID-19. The Q&A will mitigate this issue by providing tips for how to use disinfectants safely and effectively to prevent the spread of disease.

When used properly, disinfectants can be effective against the spread of diseases such as COVID-19. When used incorrectly, they can cause harm. The Q&A will cover common questions about disinfectants, as well as what items and surfaces should and should not be disinfected. With the scarcity of resources, many Americans have taken the “Do It Yourself” (DIY) approach. Although not recommended, the Q&A will also offer important reminders about DIY products in order to prevent poisonings and toxic exposures.

“During the first quarter of 2020, poison centers received approximately 17,392 exposure calls related to disinfectants” said Richard Fogelson, AAPCC Chief Executive Officer. “As parents and caregivers juggle responsibilities at home and think of creative ways to keep their little ones active and learning, this is a great opportunity to establish home safety practices. Our team wants to ensure that we provide the public with clear answers to questions that help keep families safe and prevent accidental poison exposures.”

“When using disinfectants to protect ourselves and our families from viral pathogens we should not forget that these chemicals can be harmful if not used according to label directions,” said Dr. Jeffrey Jenkins, NPIC Director. Join us on April 30, 2020 at 2pm ET on AAPCC’s Facebook page to ask questions and learn more about disinfectants. Ask questions—it could save a life.

Be prepared in an emergency by saving the Poison Help number, 1-800-222-1222, in your mobile phone.

Display the Poison Help contact number throughout your home. You can also text POISON to 797979 to save the Poison Help contact number into your mobile phone. Poison Help provides immediate free, confidential, and expert help 24/7/365.

For more information about disinfectants and other pesticides contact NPIC by phone at 800-858-7378 (8:00am - 12:00pm PST). Disinfectant and pesticide information is also available by email at npic@ace.orst.edu.