OSHA revamps bird flu webpage

Washington — OSHA recently announced an update of its webpage on avian influenza.

Infected domestic and wild birds can transmit the disease, more commonly known as bird flu, to humans. Certain types of the virus are highly contagious among bird populations, and domesticated birds such as chickens, ducks and turkeys can be sickened or killed.

The agency provides recommendations for protecting workers in the egg and poultry production industry, veterinary facilities, pet shops, zoos, and food service who “may be exposed to infectious birds or poultry products.” Business travelers, research laboratory workers and employees in health care also have a higher risk of exposure to the virus during outbreaks, OSHA states.

The webpage offers tips on hand hygiene, housekeeping and personal protective equipment options for higher-risk occupations. It also includes sections on hazard recognition, medical information, OSHA requirements, and strategies for disease prevention and control, among other resources.