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. 2021 Nov 1;16(11):e0253108.
doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253108. eCollection 2021.

Occupational exposures and mitigation strategies among homeless shelter workers at risk of COVID-19

Carol Y Rao  1 , Tashina Robinson  1 , Karin Huster  2 , Rebecca L Laws  1 , Ryan Keating  1 , Farrell A Tobolowsky  1   3 , Temet M McMichael  2   3 , Elysia Gonzales  2 , Emily Mosites  1
Affiliations

Occupational exposures and mitigation strategies among homeless shelter workers at risk of COVID-19

Carol Y Rao et al. PLoS One. .

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.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

References

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