Avian Flu Is Not Just For The Birds - The Employer's Guide to the Legal and Workplace Implications of an Avian Flu Outbreak

Introduction

By now, most people are familiar with the “avian influenza,” or “bird flu” virus (the avian flu, virus, or disease), which has been reported throughout Asia and, most recently, in Europe. Although the United States has yet to experience a human outbreak of the virus, it is only a matter of time before the disease surfaces. Essentially, basic infection control measures implemented and enforced at the workplace are the cornerstone in preventing and managing the transmission of the virus. Employers should consider that these preventative measures also greatly reduce the risk of serious legal implications in the event of an outbreak among employees.