Preventing Zoonotic Influenza Virus Infection
Author Information
Author(s): Ramirez Alejandro, Capuano Ana W., Wellman Debbie A., Lesher Kelly A., Setterquist Sharon F., Gray Gregory C.
Primary Institution: University of Iowa College of Public Health
Hypothesis
Are swine confinement workers at increased risk for zoonotic influenza infection?
Conclusion
Swine confinement workers are at increased risk for zoonotic influenza infection, particularly if they do not use gloves or smoke.
Supporting Evidence
- Workers who seldom used gloves had an odds ratio of 30.3 for having evidence of previous H1N1 swine virus.
- Smoking was also identified as a significant risk factor for swine influenza virus infections.
- The study suggests that using gloves can significantly reduce the risk of swine-to-human virus transmission.
Takeaway
People who work closely with pigs can get sick from pig flu, especially if they don't wear gloves or smoke.
Methodology
The study evaluated swine industry workers and nonexposed controls for antibodies to swine influenza viruses using questionnaires and blood samples.
Potential Biases
Self-reported data may introduce bias regarding occupational exposure and health behaviors.
Limitations
The sample size was small and may not represent all swine workers, and exposure data were self-reported.
Participant Demographics
The study included 49 male and Hispanic swine workers and 79 nonexposed controls, with a similar age distribution.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
3.8–243.5
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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