In March, an outbreak of bird flu was reported in dairy cattle in Texas. At press time, it had spread to 12 states, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Workers who are at risk of exposure include poultry and livestock farmers and workers, as well as slaughterhouse workers.
Using personal protective equipment will help reduce the risk of exposure if you’re working in an affected environment. Follow these PPE-related tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
- Dress in separate designated clean areas, one for donning PPE and one for removing it.
- Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose after encountering any contaminated material.
- Don’t eat, drink, smoke, vape, chew gum, dip tobacco or use the bathroom while wearing the PPE.
- Clean and disinfect footwear before removing it. Wash your hands after removing coveralls and gloves, and again after removing eye and face protection and a head or hair cover.
- Shower at the end of your work shift.
- Leave all contaminated clothing and equipment at work.
