CDC releases biosafety tips for avian flu workers

Atlanta – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has published biosafety recommendations for laboratories working with highly pathogenic avian influenza.

Recommendations include:

• Implement a respiratory protection program and select an appropriate respirator for the type of activity to be performed in the lab.
• Vaccinate workers against seasonal influenza.
• Enroll employees who work with certain viruses in a medical surveillance program that includes a plan for responding to a suspected exposure.

The recommendations were published in the June 28 issue of CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.