Rural Agricultural Health and Safety – News
News stories from the past 60 days.
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
Last Updated: 12/9/2024