Bird flu: New hazard alert from Oregon OSHA

Salem, OR — Avoiding unprotected direct or close physical contact with sick/dead animals and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment are two key ways workers can limit their risk of contracting bird flu, according to Oregon OSHA.

The agency recently published a hazard alert on bird flu, a viral infection that’s led to more than 60 human cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and impacted livestock and other animals. 

An outbreak of bird flu has affected nearly 20 million birds in 15 states and the District of Columbia, according to a Jan. 31 report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. 

People at increased risk of the contracting the disease include slaughterhouse employees, poultry and livestock farmers and workers, public and animal health responders, and veterinarians and veterinary staff.

Workers should also avoid unprotected or direct contact with: 

• Raw milk
• Viscera and udders from lactating dairy cattle
• Feces or litter
• Surfaces and water (ponds, buckets, pans, troughs, etc.) on farms with potentially infected animals that could be contaminated with animal waste

Protection for workers should begin by washing hands with soap and water before donning PPE in this order: fluid-resistant coveralls, waterproof apron, NIOSH-approved respirator, proper fitted unvented or indirectly vented safety goggles or faceshield, head or hair cover, gloves, and boots. 

Bird flu is caused by influenza A viruses, but it can vary in severity depending on the type of flu variant and the species affected, the fact sheet states.

Workers and employers should monitor themselves for symptoms, which can include fever (100° F or higher) or feeling chills, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, tearing or redness/irritation of the eyes, headaches, runny or stuffy nose, muscle/body aches, and diarrhea.