Filling the Knowledge Gaps HVAC and COVID-19

Many HVAC-related factors could be significant with respect to the spread of COVID-19 Increased ventilation, advanced filtration, humidification and improved mechanical hygiene are being included in measures intended to reduce its spread ASHRAE has issued general guidance for HVAC operation during the COVID-19 pandemic based on the very limited information available at this time,1 but there is considerable uncertainty over where these measures are effective This paper summarizes what is known about the virus responsible for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) and similar viruses regarding the role of HVAC in both the spread and control of infection It also identifies critical information gaps and recommends research priorities