DHS Science & Technology Directorate Launches Tool to Predict Decay of Airborne Coronavirus
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) added a new calculator to their online tools today to estimate the natural decay of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) in the air under various environmental conditions. Using the results of ongoing research being conducted at S&T’s National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) in Maryland, the tool is designed to assist response efforts and minimize person-to-person transmission by analyzing environmental factors that may impact the ability of the virus to spread.
“This groundbreaking research into how COVID-19 spreads and the new interactive model from DHS S&T will have far-reaching impact,” said William N. Bryan, DHS Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Under Secretary for Science & Technology. “The easily accessible tool allows officials, the medical community, and individuals to make more informed decisions to protect their own health and well-being.”