Occupational exposures and mitigation strategies among homeless shelter workers at risk of COVID-19
- PMID: 34723986
- PMCID: PMC8559982
- DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253108
Occupational exposures and mitigation strategies among homeless shelter workers at risk of COVID-19
Abstract
Objective: To describe the work environment and COVID-19 mitigation measures for homeless shelter workers and assess occupational risk factors for COVID-19.
Methods: Between June 9-August 10, 2020, we conducted a self-administered survey among homeless shelter workers in Washington, Massachusetts, Utah, Maryland, and Georgia. We calculated frequencies for work environment, personal protective equipment use, and SARS-CoV-2 testing history. We used generalized linear models to produce unadjusted prevalence ratios (PR) to assess risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Results: Of the 106 respondents, 43.4% reported frequent close contact with clients; 75% were worried about work-related SARS-CoV-2 infections; 15% reported testing positive. Close contact with clients was associated with testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 (PR 3.97, 95%CI 1.06, 14.93).
Conclusions: Homeless shelter workers may be at risk of being exposed to individuals with COVID-19 during the course of their work. Frequent close contact with clients was associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Protecting these critical essential workers by implementing mitigation measures and prioritizing for COVID-19 vaccination is imperative during the pandemic.
Conflict of interest statement
The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.
References
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- Yoon JC, Montgomery MP, Buff AM, Boyd AT, Jamison C, Hernandez A, et al.. COVID-19 Prevalence among people experiencing homelessness and homelessness service staff during early community transmission in Atlanta, Georgia, April-May 2020. Clinical Infectious Diseases. 2020. doi: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1340 - DOI - PMC - PubMed
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- Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Advisory memorandum on ensuring essential critical infrastructure workers’ ability to work during the COVID-19 response Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Homeland Security,; December 16, 2020 [updated December 16, 2020. https://www.cisa.gov/publication/guidance-essential-critical-infrastruct....
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