NIH Director Monica M. Bertagnolli, M.D. recently shared with the NIH community a new resource providing a detailed framework for safely working during periods of increased respiratory virus activity levels.
The NIH Respiratory Virus Guidance website, created by the Division of Occupational Health and Safety (DOHS), includes information on safe practices for the physical workplace, universal workplace expectations, travel and meeting guidance, testing and vaccination information, and staff wellness.
To view NIH Director Bertagnolli's message, continue reading below.
A Message from NIH Director Monica M. Bertagnolli, M.D.
Dear Colleagues,
I hope everyone is enjoying the dog days of summer and staying cool.
We don't often think of respiratory viruses in the summer, but they persist in all types of weather. While seasonal influenza and RSV are currently low, COVID-19 activity is increasing in most areas nationally, and people are anecdotally reporting cases of illness from all three respiratory viruses (influenza, RSV, and COVID-19).
During the pandemic, we relied on guidance provided by the NIH Office of Research Services (ORS) Division of Occupational Health and Safety (DOHS) to keep ourselves and those around us protected. Thankfully, the pandemic is well behind us, but we are still at risk for illness from a whole host of pesky respiratory viruses. The good news is that DOHS is ready with important guidance with a new resource called NIH Respiratory Virus Guidance. This guidance reflects the latest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and focuses on prevention of transmission by adhering to risk-based safety principles such as self-monitoring, ventilation and filtration, vaccination, and workplace flexibilities.
The guidance includes links to important information on the current trends in respiratory virus transmission. With this knowledge, staff can be informed of current community risks and take appropriate steps to protect themselves, their colleagues, and their families. This guidance is not mandatory in non-healthcare settings. Healthcare specific requirements can be found throughout the plan.
We encourage all members of the NIH community to review the updated guidance and integrate these practices into your daily routines. By working together, we can continue to safeguard the health and well-being of our community.
For any questions or further information, please contact DOHS at 301-496-2960.
Thank you for your continued commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy environment at NIH.
Warm regards,
Monica M. Bertagnolli, M.D.
NIH Director
