Veterinary Epidemiology and Zoonosis

ROLE OF BIRDS IN TRANSMISSION OF ZOONOTIC DISEASES

• A poultry farm worker who works on a farm where domestic fowl are bred and raised for eggs and/or meat.
  • Poultry Farm Workers may contract, from the fowl in their care, infectious diseases that are common to fowl and man.
  • The atmosphere in poultry farms usually contains significant levels of agricultural dust and toxic gases, which put the workers at a health risk.
  • Some chemicals used at poultry farms (for disinfection) may cause harm to workers' health.
  • The Poultry Farm Worker's work is often physically difficult and involves handling heavy loads, uncomfortable postures and movements. This may cause traumas (including falls), back, arms and hands pains.

Preventive measures

• Wear safety shoes with non-skid soles
• Wear appropriate eye protection; consult a safety supervisor or a supplier
• Protect hands with chemical-resistant gloves; if impractical, use a barrier cream
• Install effective exhaust ventilation and air conditioning to prevent air contamination and heat or cold stress
• Wear a respirator to avoid inhalation of dust or aerosols
• Replace formaldehyde as a disinfectant with less harmful substitutes available on the market
• Maintain a high level of personal hygiene. At the end of work, shower and change clothes
• Do not take work-soiled clothing home
• Learn and use safe lifting and moving techniques for heavy or awkward loads; use mechanical aids to assist in lifting