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Meta-Analysis
. 2019 Mar;25(3):397-405.
doi: 10.3201/eid2503.180708.

Case Investigations of Infectious Diseases Occurring in Workplaces, United States, 2006-2015

Chia-Ping Su, Marie A de Perio, Kristin J Cummings, Anna-Binney McCague, Sara E Luckhaupt, Marie Haring Sweeney
Meta-Analysis

Case Investigations of Infectious Diseases Occurring in Workplaces, United States, 2006-2015

Chia-Ping Su et al. Emerg Infect Dis. 2019 Mar.

Abstract

Workers in specific settings and activities are at increased risk for certain infectious diseases. When an infectious disease case occurs in a worker, investigators need to understand the mechanisms of disease propagation in the workplace. Few publications have explored these factors in the United States; a literature search yielded 66 investigations of infectious disease occurring in US workplaces during 2006-2015. Reported cases appear to be concentrated in specific industries and occupations, especially the healthcare industry, laboratory workers, animal workers, and public service workers. A hierarchy-of-controls approach can help determine how to implement effective preventive measures in workplaces. Consideration of occupational risk factors and control of occupational exposures will help prevent disease transmission in the workplace and protect workers' health.

Keywords: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; United States; bacteria; communicable diseases; disease outbreaks; epidemiologic studies; fungi; occupational exposure; occupational illnesses; parasites; viruses; workplaces.

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Figures

Figure
Figure
The hierarchy of controls for controlling exposures to occupational hazards. Source: NIOSH, https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/hierarchy/default.html.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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