Recommendation for Covid 19 waste
Is there a risk of infection from used Corona rapid tests or vaccination waste? How should waste from testing or vaccination be disposed of?
In connection with Covid-19, there is an increasing amount of waste that needs to be disposed of safely. What needs to be considered when handling waste from vaccination, e.g. residues of vector-based vaccines, so that no new risks arise? The Federal Environment Agency (UBA) Germany, together with the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) and further partners Recommendations for handling waste generated in connection with Covid-19 elaborated.
Attention risk of injury
Overall, the Recommendation does not foresee any specific requirements for the disposal of waste from vaccination and testing centres. It can be assumed that there is no danger for used vaccine vials or rapid tests: According to UBA, the materials can be disposed of together with municipal waste.
When pointed and sharp objects (e.g. cannulas) accumulate during waste disposal, the necessary occupational safety measures must be observed and the risk of injury must be minimised by using packaging that is resistant to breakage and punctures, according to the UBA.
Source: Federal Environment Agency
