CDC

CDC: How does PPE use among dairy workers shift during avian flu outbreaks?

November 13, 2024

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) interviewed 83 dairy farmworkers in Colorado about their PPE use before and after influenza A(H5N1) was detected on their farms.

Commonly available PPE items before A(H5N1) outbreaks included gloves (88%), eye protection (e.g., safety glasses or goggles) (76%), rubber boots or boot covers (71%), and head covers (69%). However, N95 respirator use was low among workers exposed to ill cows after A(H5N1) virus was detected (26%).

Post-H5N1 detection, PPE use increased by 28%, with a notable 40% rise in eye protection during milking. Despite this, the use of respirators and masks remained low. The study suggests that stronger partnerships between public health agencies and agricultural organizations, along with early distribution of PPE, could enhance protection for farmworkers.

Source:

CDC. (2024, November 7). Personal Protective Equipment Use by Dairy Farmworkers Exposed to Cows Infected with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Viruses — Colorado, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7344a2.htm