CDC Guidance Regarding Ventilation in Homeless Shelters

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently provided updated guidance for homeless service providers as we continue to combat COVID-19. Our homeless neighbors have a higher risk for infection due to the community spread of COVID-19. This CDC interim guidance is geared toward the response planning of homeless service providers, including overnight emergency shelters, day shelters, and meal service providers.

The following recommended steps can improve ventilation in your building, helping to protect your guests.

• Ensure ventilation systems operate properly and per established local/national codes.
• Consult with local HVAC professionals to discover ways to improve ventilation in your building(s).
• Consider using portable, high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) fan/filtration systems to enhance air cleaning.
• Ensure exhaust fans in kitchens and restroom facilities are functional and operating at full capacity.
• Consider using ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) as a supplemental technique to inactivate potential airborne viruses.
• Collaborate with your health department and other community partners to identify resources for improving ventilation and air quality.

Visit the Interim Guidance for Homeless Service Providers web page for more details and PDF downloads created specifically for you.