Coronavirus outbreak: OSHA offers information on preventing exposure

Washington — OSHA has published an online resource on a new coronavirus outbreak that includes a link to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention interim guidance, quick facts about the outbreak, and information on preventing exposure.

The deadly coronavirus is a respiratory illness reportedly linked to a large seafood and animal market in Wuhan, China, according to CDC. Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. The outbreak has killed at least 130 people in China, according to reports.

OSHA notes that most U.S. workers are “not at significant risk of infection.” However, health care and airline workers, business travelers, and anyone involved in border protection are more likely to come in contact with people who have the virus. Chinese officials have reported the spread of the virus from infected patients to health care workers, OSHA states.

The first U.S. case was confirmed Jan. 21 in Washington state, according to CDC. As of Jan. 22, coronavirus infections have been confirmed in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand. CDC and the Department of Homeland Security’s Custom and Border Protection are screening travelers from China.

CDC recommends avoiding nonessential travel to Wuhan, as well as taking precautions and remaining alert if going to other parts of China.