SEASONAL INFLUENZA (FLU) IN THE WORKPLACE

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) works with its Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) colleagues and other partners to conduct research and make recommendations to minimize work-related risks of catching influenza. Throughout the influenza season, this NIOSH topic page on influenza will be updated and expanded to include a variety of resources for employers, workers, occupational health professionals, and other partners. Bookmark this page as a quick reference for new information.

The 2011-2012 Influenza Season

Currently, influenza activity is low across most of the country; however, several novel influenza infections have been confirmed with an H3N2 variant [A(H3N2)v]. CDC has provided guidance on prevention strategies for seasonal and H3N2v influenza in healthcare settings. Currently, there are no data to indicate that the transmission characteristics of the A(H3N2)v virus will be different than those of seasonal influenza viruses. As a result, CDC advises that the infections control principles and actions relevant for seasonal influenza are appropriate for the control of A(H3N2)v as well. Current CDC data indicate that seasonal vaccines may provide limited protection against infection with A(H3N2)v viruses among adults and no protection in children.

Information for people traveling to parts of the world which may be experiencing influenza activity can be found elsewhere on the CDC website. Note that CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) now recommends "universal" flu vaccination (everyone 6 months and older) in the U.S. to expand protection against the influenza to more people.

For information on WORKPLACE SEASONAL INFLUENZA, contact:
NIOSH-INFO
cbd1@cdc.gov

For EMERGENCIES or GENERAL INFLUENZA information, contact:
CDC-INFO
24 Hours/Every Day
800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636)
TTY: (888) 232-6348
cdcinfo@cdc.gov