How to Address Infectious Diseases in the Workplace

Author: Gloria Ju

Over the years, employers have had to deal with outbreaks of H1N1, Zika and, more recently, coronavirus. Even if an outbreak occurs on the other side of the world, it can easily affect an employer in the United States, as employees may travel to an affected area or come into contact with a person who has traveled to an affected area or, in the case of the Zika virus, simply because an employee works outside and may be vulnerable to infected mosquitos.

Prevention and education is extremely important for keeping the effects of an infectious disease outbreak on the workplace to a minimum. An employer should take all necessary steps to protect its employees and educate them on ways to prevent potential exposure to and transmission of the disease.