Rural Health
News by Topic: Agricultural health and safety
Dec 6, 2024 - Announces the start of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's
(USDA) National Milk Testing Strategy in response to the
spread of avian influenza in dairy cattle. Describes the
implementation of a nationwide testing system to identify
infected herds and protect the health of farmers,
farmworkers, and the public. Notes the issuance of a new
Federal Order and outlines compliance requirements for
dairy industry stakeholders.
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Nov 29, 2024 - Notice from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) extending the comment period on the August 30, 2024, proposed rule until January 14, 2025. The rule establishes a heat standard for all indoor and outdoor work in workplaces where OSHA has jurisdiction. A virtual hearing is scheduled for June 16, 2025 to discuss the proposed rule.
Source: Federal Register
Nov 25, 2024 - Provides overview of data on bird flu spread in western states. Notes the possibility of numerous unreported cases among farmworkers due to a widespread lack of testing. Features varying perspectives on the testing of asymptomatic individuals and best practices for increasing testing among farmworkers.
Source: Idaho Capital Sun
Nov 14, 2024 - Highlights an initiative to increase vaccination for influenza among Kansas farmworkers. Discusses the increased risk of co-infection with H5N1 bird flu and seasonal influenza as well as the strain seasonal illnesses can place on low-staffed rural hospitals.
Source: KCUR, NPR
Nov 14, 2024 - Medical students in Texas visited a farm to learn more about the occupational hazards of farming. Discusses farm injuries and the importance of medical professionals understanding the healthcare needs of their patients.
Source: KLTV
Nov 4, 2024 - Highlights dangerous and often fatal grain bin accidents in agricultural work. Discusses strategies to avoid incidents including a Midwest-focused prevention program by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
Source: WNIJ, Harvest Public Media
Oct 27, 2024 - Discusses safety for children on a farm and challenges with finding childcare for farmers. Offers examples of age-appropriate activities.
Source: Ohio Country Journal
Oct 24, 2024 - Highlights work by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture to stop the spread of H5N1 in California, Washington, and at a national level. Discusses efforts to safeguard human health, animal health, farming businesses, and the food supply.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services