Which is the correct approach to environmental surface decontamination after exposure to a biological agent?

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Cleaning first removes soil and organic matter that can shield biological agents and reduce disinfectant effectiveness. Once surfaces are free of debris, applying an appropriate disinfectant with the proper contact time can reliably inactivate the agent, giving a more complete decontamination. The two-step approach is stronger because disinfection alone can be undermined by organic matter, and cleaning without disinfection leaves potential residual contamination. Limiting decontamination to only high-touch surfaces risks spreading the agent elsewhere; plain water alone does not inactivate pathogens. Always use a disinfectant appropriate for the agent and surface and follow label directions for concentration and contact time.