Avian influenza : protecting poultry workers at risk

Avian influenza is a viral disease that can cause sickness and death among poultry. On rare occasions, avian influenza virus can be transmitted to poultry workers or others who come in contact with infected poultry or contact contaminated surfaces. Examples of such workers who could be at risk include poultry growers and their employees; service technicians of poultry processing companies; caretakers, layer barn workers, and chick movers at egg production facilities; and workers involved in disease control and eradication activities, including state, federal, contract, and company employees.This Safety and Health Information Bulletin describes measures for protecting poultry workers when an avian influenza outbreak occurs. It presents basic information about avian influenza and describes measures for minimizing exposure to the virus. Links to Internet sites are provided for those wanting more detailed information on avian influenza, biosecurity measures, and personal protective equipment. This document complements avian population disease control and eradication strategies of state governments, industry, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).This Safety and Health Information Bulletin is a product of the OSHA-NIOSH Issues Exchange Group. Appreciation is extended for the insightful reviews of this document by scientists from the National Center for Infectious Diseases of the CDC and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture