The Role Employers Play in Impeding the Spread of Monkeypox

As demonstrated with COVID-19, employers can help to prevent the spread of both diseases and misinformation. By providing employees with accurate guidance from reputable sources about how viruses are transmitted, common symptoms, treatment options, and how prevention measures can help address uncertainty, employees can properly prepare and prioritize their health.

The same is true with the recent spread of Monkeypox, a virus in the same family of viruses as variola virus, the virus that causes smallpox. Employers can help mitigate a potential Monkeypox outbreak through education and policy efforts.  

Although the outbreak has predominantly impacted gay men and bisexual men, Monkeypox can spread to anyone through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact. People who have a weakened immune system, have a history of eczema, are pregnant, or under the age of 8 may be at higher risk. Workers with higher exposure may include health workers, those who directly touch skin or possibly contaminated surfaces, sanitation staff, hospitality workers who wash soiled linens, and more.  

Symptoms typically last 2-4 weeks and include a rash like pimples or blisters that appear on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body, like the hands, feet, chest, genitals, etc. With the contagious nature of Monkey Pox and its extended duration, employers need to have protocols in place to keep working environments sanitary and provide flexible work during periods of isolation. Employers should also consider industry and job role risk of exposure and provide easy access to vaccination, testing, and isolation procedures.

With this month’s insight, Artemis clients can view a tailored analysis of their population to get a better grasp on Monkeypox diagnosis, testing, and vaccination. The insight also examines potentially vulnerable members to help in better monitoring and aid employers in taking needed preventive measures to avoid infections before they happen.

Do you want to use data to help your organization mitigate the spread of disease and help your workforce stay healthy? Contact us today to get started.