COVID-19 and Environmental Health
Science education briefs by public health graduate students
Welcome!
This site summarizes some of the most interesting topics in environmental health today. It is no surprise that COVID-19 is all around us, but did you know that we are seeing environmental impacts as a result of the virus? In turn, these environmental impacts are influencing viral transmission and other health outcomes. It is all quite fascinating and brand new.
These annotated briefs were prepared by amazing graduate students in public health in the OHSU-PSU School of Public Health. Instead of a typical term paper and presentation, their Concepts in Environmental Health (ESHH 511/611) final products are shown on this public-facing site so we all can learn -- briefly -- and with reputable sources so you can go down the rabbit hole and learn more.
Core Topics
Explore the bi-directional relationships between COVID-19 and these core topics within environmental health.
New research has linked air pollution to increased COVID-19 mortality. COVID-19 lockdowns have improved air quality in many cases, but what long-term impacts might we expect?
Learn about air quality
Handwashing is essential for limiting spread of SARS-CoV-2, but handwashing is challenging in some parts of the world. Also, explore how testing wastewater can give an early indicator of potential outbreaks.
Learn about COVID-19 and water
COVID-19 has disrupted agriculture and food systems, resulting in food access barriers and increases in global food insecurity. Explore impact on agricultural communities, local food access, and food industry workers.
Learn about food systems
The built environment and human health are linked. Explore how COVID-19 intersects with built environment considerations, like urban planning, public transit, telehealth, and chain stores
Learn more about built environment
Our front-line workers are being hard hit. Explore how COVID-19 has shaped occupational health for first responders, health care providers, mental health providers, teachers, and those involved in post-mortem care.
Learn more about occupational health
The amount of waste being produced as a result of COVID-19 is immense. Learn about COVID-19's impact on two areas related to waste management: recycling and waste stemming from personal protective equipment (PPE)
Learn more about waste management
Overarching Lenses
These lenses frame the way we think about environmental health. They span core topics above to have wide-reaching impacts.
COVID-19 isn't impacting everyone equally. Some populations are particularly vulnerable. Explore environmental justice considerations around the perinatal period, for prison populations, and nursing home residents.
Learn more about environmental justice
Climate Change
Climate change is critically important. We are running out of time. Explore how deforestation and urbanization contribute to climate change and impact biodiversity, with amazing intersections with COVID-19. Climate change talks can help, but how might COVID-19 slow or derail these discussions?
Learn more about climate change
Getting Started?
New to these topics or want a refresher? Explore our class companion website, Learn Environmental Health