Pesticide Use Guidance for New York During COVID-19

The following is provided courtesy of Cornell University’s Pesticide Management Education Program

Along with the increased use of disinfectants and sanitizers during the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increase in adverse health effects from the misuse of these products.

There have also been several fraudulent products produced during this time that potential applicators should be aware of. Please read and share the following warnings and guidelines from Cornell’s Pesticide Management Education Program (psep.cce.cornell.edu).

Beware of Fraudulent Pesticide Claims Related to SARS-CoV-2 (the COVID-19 Coronavirus)

Please beware that unregistered disinfectants claiming to protect against the virus are being marketed in the U.S. The efficacy and safety of these products is unsubstantiated and their use is illegal.

Regulators are taking steps to prevent such products from reaching the market, but it is the responsibility of those using these products in New York to use only those products designated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for use against SARS-CoV-2, listed at www.dec.ny.gov/docs/materials_minerals_pdf/covid19.pdf. Please check this list frequently, as content is subject to change.

Be Safe Disinfecting Your Home

Disinfectants are pesticides and you may use them only as directed by the label. Therefore:

• Never mix different disinfectant products together. Doing so is dangerous. For example, mixing bleach with acids (such as vinegar) or ammonia releases life-threatening toxic fumes.
• Never use disinfectants or disinfectant wipes on your skin. Instead, wash with soap and water; you can also use hand sanitizer on your hands.
• Never wash fruits and vegetables with soap, sanitizers, or disinfectants, as this could also result in poisoning. Wash produce only in clean water.

For more information on disinfecting your home and how to handle food during this crisis, visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/disinfecting-your-home.pdf and instituteforfoodsafety.cornell.edu/coronavirus-covid-19/food-safety-recommendation-consumer/.