Interim Recommendations from CDC Cover Cleaning, Disinfection for Nonemergency Vehicles

Interim recommendations published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention focus on the cleaning and disinfection of nonemergency transport vehicles, including passenger vans, accessible vans, and cars, following the transport of people who are known or suspected to have COVID-19. Commonly touched surfaces in these vehicles should be cleaned and disinfected at the beginning and end of each shift and between transporting passengers who are visibly sick. CDC recommends that individuals wear disposable gloves compatible with the cleaning and disinfecting products being used as well as any other personal protective equipment required in the products’ manufacturer-provided instructions. If possible, the agency also encourages the use of a disposable gown. CDC’s website includes links to appropriate products for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces inside nonemergency transport vehicles.

After cleaning and disinfecting vehicles, individuals should remove and dispose of gloves and other disposable PPE. Immediately after removing PPE, CDC recommends that individuals wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Next, clothes worn during cleaning and disinfecting should be laundered at the warmest appropriate water setting and dried completely. CDC urges another round of handwashing after handling laundry.

More information, including recommendations for drivers who transport passengers who are confirmed to have COVID-19, is available on CDC’s website.