Communicable Disease

The institutions where AFT members work are often crowded with poor ventilation and therefore increase occupant risk of exposure to communicable and infectious diseases.  Influenza epidemics can spread through schools and healthcare facilities faster than less densely populated office buildings. TB outbreaks occur more frequently in schools than any other community setting.  AFT members can better protect themselves and their students, clients and patients from exposure by understanding the recommended control measures for common communicable diseases.  Important links appear below.

• Vaccines Matter
• MRSA in Schools
• Resource Information:  Policies, Positions, and Facility Practices
• Fifth's Disease
• Hand Hygiene Recommendations
• Hepatitis B Alert
• Hepatitis B Immunization: The Elements of a Good Program
• Hepatitis C Alert
• OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standard
• Needlesticks - Everyone's Problem
• Scabies
• Tuberculosis and the Healthcare Worker: Control Measures Against Exposure
• It's Up to Us: Building a Safer Workplace through Universal Precautions
• Varicella Zoster Virus
• Zika virus