What If Urine Can Spread COVID-19?

The World Healthy Organization released a briefing earlier this summer suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) could possibly be transmitted through contact with urine because it has been found in these types of biological samples. Though it has yet to happen and has not been proven, the theory is that the process of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 would occur when urine contaminated with the virus becomes aerosolized when someone uses a public restroom. While aerosolized, that urine can be breathed in by another person using the restroom, probably around a urinal.

The dangers of viruses spreading through urine means facility managers, building service contractors and janitorial workers must now focus on more than just controlling urine odors and stains in the restroom argues WizKid Products, which specializes in the sale of products used in restrooms. Now, these professional must manage urine so that it doesn't compromise health.

WizKid recommends reducing the "splashback" caused by urine hitting a urinal by installing a urinal screen. It also encourages the use of antimicrobial mats surrounding a urinal, so that urine doesn't pool on the floor.