SARS-CoV-2 in the Environment

Two years ago, the general public did not know about coronaviruses, and no one knew of SARS-CoV-2. Today, the world has changed as a result of the global pandemic caused by this virus, and every 3 year old can say "coronavirus". In this course, we will explore how research filled critical knowledge gaps related to environmental fate and transport of viruses allowed us to better understand the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and inform public health policies on masking and social distancing. We will also discuss the flow of scientific discoveries and knowledge from laboratory to the public during the pandemic and how typical outlets for dissemination of science were or were not effective during the crisis. This course will involve substantial reading of the peer-reviewed and popular literature, and lively discussions and debate. Course likely will be offered remote synchronous