OSHA publishes new webpage on measles prevention
Posted June 27, 2019
OSHA has published a new webpage on measles prevention, with information for both workers and employers. The page includes information on developing infection control plans and other infection prevention measures for workers in general and for those who may be at higher risk, including:
- Healthcare and dental workers.
- Childcare and school workers.
- Laboratory workers.
- Environmental services workers.
- Workers who are pregnant.
- Workers who travel abroad.
Measles is a highly contagious, potentially serious illness with more than 1,000 confirmed cases in 28 states in 2019, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The measles virus spreads primarily through infectious droplets or airborne particles when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes and through contact with respiratory secretions or saliva from an infected person. Measles can remain in the air for up to about two hours after a person with the disease has occupied an area.
Workers who may be near infected individuals, including members of the public or infected coworkers, are at risk of exposure regardless of their jobs.
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