Zoonotic Diseases: What are the risks and how can we protect workers?
Two museum taxidermists were at the centre of a recent case in Queensland where an outbreak of Q Fever occurred.
This unusual but concerning incident highlighted the need to understand and manage the risk of zoonotic diseases in workplaces where people are exposed to animals, or animal by-products.
Understanding Zoonotic Diseases
Zoonotic diseases are caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi that can be transmitted between animals and humans. Common examples include but are not limited to, Q Fever, Rabies, Ebola, H1N1 influenza, Lyme disease, and Salmonellosis. In some cases, these diseases present like a common flu. However, they can also lead to serious health conditions such as pneumonia and hepatitis.
Who’s at risk?
People who work in industries where there is a close proximity to animals and animal by-products are more susceptible to zoonotic diseases. The occupation of taxidermy, such as in the Queensland museum example, is relatively unique. However, there are other more common occupations that should take the risk of zoonotic diseases seriously.
These include:
Agriculture and Farming: Farmers, livestock workers, and veterinarians are at high risk due to their direct contact with animals.
Animal Care and Veterinary Services: Professionals working in veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and zoos face potential exposure to zoonotic pathogens.
Wildlife and Conservation: Researchers, wildlife handlers, and park rangers may encounter zoonotic diseases while working closely with wild animals.
Food Processing and Handling: Workers in abattoirs, meat processing plants, and food markets may come into contact with contaminated animal products.
Managing Risks in the Workplace
There is currently no WHS Code of Practice in Australia that specifically addresses zoonotic diseases. However, it’s crucial to implement appropriate infection management protocols and WHS compliance measures to protect workers from contamination. General information on managing workplace diseases can be found on the Safe Work Australia website.
Key steps to manage the risks of zoonotic diseases in the workplace include:
- Risk Assessment. Identify potential hazards and evaluate the level of risk associated with specific tasks and interactions with animals or animal products.
- Training and Education. Provide comprehensive training to workers about zoonotic diseases, prevention measures, and proper hygiene practices.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Provide and enforce the use of appropriate PPE, such as gloves, masks, goggles, and protective clothing. This will minimise direct contact with zoonotic pathogens.
- Hygiene Practices. Promote regular handwashing with soap and water, use of hand sanitisers, and proper sanitation of work areas and equipment.
- Vaccinations. Encourage workers to stay up to date with relevant and available vaccinations, to reduce the risk of contracting secondary infections.
What vaccinations are available and recommended for zoonotic diseases?
It’s important to consult with a doctor or occupational health specialist, to assess the appropriate zoonotic disease vaccinations for your workforce. Vaccinations are based on specific occupational exposures and personal health considerations. Of course, Jobfit can provide guidance on recommended vaccinations and implement vaccination programs to suit.
The Department of Health also offers useful information about vaccination against zoonotic diseases.
The choice of vaccination depends on factors such as the specific disease being vaccinated against, individual risk factors, and occupational exposure. Some available vaccinations include:
Q Fever
Q Fever is a bacterial infection caused by Coxiella Burnetti. It is spread to humans from cattle, sheep and goats and a range of other domestic and wild animals (such as feral dogs and cats, feral pigs, horses, rabbits, rodents, alpacas, camels, llamas) and Australian native wildlife. Infection is spread through handling of animal products (urine, fluids, excretion, wool, hides, manure fertiliser) shearing, herding, or transporting of infected animals. Q Fever vaccination is required for various industries where there is a risk for exposure, e.g abattoir and meat workers, livestock and dairy farmers and farm workers, shearers, animal breeders, etc.
Tetanus
Tetanus is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, commonly found in soil and animal faeces. It can enter the body through cuts, wounds, or puncture injuries. Tetanus vaccination is essential for individuals working in environments where they may encounter animal-related injuries or contaminated materials. It is recommended to receive Tetanus vaccination every 5 years when risk of exposure exists at work.
Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease transmitted through the bites or scratches of infected animals, primarily dogs, bats, and other wildlife. Vaccination against rabies is crucial for individuals who work directly with animals or in areas where rabies is prevalent, such as veterinarians, wildlife handlers, and animal control professionals.
Influenza
Influenza viruses can be transmitted from animals to humans and vice versa. Avian influenza (bird flu) and swine influenza are examples of zoonotic influenza viruses. For that reason, vaccination against seasonal influenza is recommended for individuals at higher risk of exposure, including those working in close proximity to animals or animal products.
reduce the risk of zoonotic diseases
By implementing robust risk management strategies, providing adequate training, and ensuring compliance with WHS protocols, employers can reduce the risk of zoonotic diseases spreading.
For professional advice about vaccinating your workforce against zoonotic diseases, contact Jobfit.
