Authors
MacMahon-KL; Delaney-LJ; Kullman-G; Gibbins-JD; Decker-J; Kiefer-MJ
Source
Public Health Rep 2008 May-Jun; 123(3):316-322
Abstract
Emerging zoonotic diseases are of increasing regional and global importance. Preventing occupational exposure to zoonotic diseases protects workers as well as their families, communities, and the public health. Workers can be protected from zoonotic diseases most effectively by preventing and controlling diseases in animals, reducing workplace exposures, and educating workers. Certain avian influenza viruses are potential zoonotic disease agents that may be transmitted from infected birds to humans. Poultry workers are at risk of becoming infected with these viruses if they are exposed to infected birds or virus-contaminated materials or environments. Critical components of worker protection include educating employers and training poultry workers about occupational exposure to avian influenza viruses. Other recommendations for protecting poultry workers include the use of good hygiene and work practices, personal protective clothing and equipment, vaccination for seasonal influenza viruses, antiviral medication, and medical surveillance. Current recommendations for protecting poultry workers from exposure to avian influenza viruses are summarized in this article.
Keywords
Disease-control; Disease-prevention; Infection-control; Infectious-diseases; Poultry; Poultry-industry; Poultry-workers; Viral-diseases; Viral-infections; Zoonoses; Education; Animals; Occupational-exposure
Contact
Kathleen L. MacMahon, DVM, MS, Education and Information Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Mail Stop-C32, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226
Document Type
Journal Article
Email Address
KMacMahon@cdc.gov
NIOSH Division
EID; DSHEFS; DRDS; EPRO
Priority Area
Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing; Services
Source Name
Public Health Reports