The Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate has launched a study to prevent further spread of the COVID-19 disease’ coronavirus.
DHS said Wednesday its Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office is working with the National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center to help scientists learn more about the virus. Results may support first responders and medical personnel dealing with the issue.
“This will help us understand many of the factors that influence the persistence of the virus on surfaces or in the air, and what methods are most effective for disinfecting potentially contaminated surfaces,” said William Bryan, DHS’ acting undersecretary of S&T.
Researchers under the effort study factors that allow the virus to self-maintain and spread through surfaces, fluids and air.
NBACC offers aerobiology and virology technologies and expertise to support COVID-19-related studies.
