About Respiratory Infections in the Workplace

Overview

Each workplace is unique. A worker's risk for job-related exposure to respiratory infections can vary widely depending on the nature of their job.

Types

Examples of respiratory infections that can impact the workplace include coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and seasonal influenza (flu).

Prevention

Ventilation and Engineering Controls

Improving building ventilation can reduce risk of exposure to respiratory viruses and reduce the spread of respiratory infections.

Another strategy involves using Upper-Room Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI). UVGI uses ultraviolet energy to kill viral, bacterial, and fungal organisms.

Clean and Disinfect

Regularly cleaning surfaces helps prevent the spread of germs that can cause respiratory infections.

Keep the Workplace Healthy From COVID-19

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration provides guidance for employers on mitigating and preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace.

Keep the Workplace Healthy During Flu Season

Employers can make a plan to keep the workplace healthy and prepare for flu season:

• Develop policies that encourage sick workers to stay home when sick
• Follow these 10 steps to prevent the spread of flu in the workplace
• Promote the flu vaccine in the workplace

What CDC is doing

NIOSH actively works to minimize work-related risks of catching respiratory infections in the workplace through research, service, and partnerships. NIOSH works closely with other parts of the CDC, other federal agencies, and non-governmental partners.

CDC has resources to help monitor respiratory infection activity and spread. Employers can use these resources to make informed decisions about workplace safety and health measures like remote work and masking.

View laboratory-confirmed hospitalizations associated with COVID-19, flu, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) on the Respiratory Virus Hospitalization Surveillance Network (RESP-NET).

View national emergency department visits for COVID-19, Influenza, and RSV.

View hospital admissions, deaths, and emergency department visits on the COVID Data Tracker.

View hospital admissions for COVID-19 by County.

Resources

Workplace Setting Specific Guidance for COVID-19

• Commercial Aircraft Cabin Crew
• Community Congregate Living Settings
• Healthcare Settings
• Homeless Service Sites and Correctional and Detention Facilities
• Laboratories
• Maritime Vessels
• Schools and Childcare

Workplace Setting Specific Guidance for Flu

• Commercial Aircraft Cabin Crew
• Healthcare Settings
• Schools and Childcare