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Published on: February 23, 2014
Welders are at increased risk for invasive pneumococcal disease
Alexander Wong1, Thomas J Marrie, Sipi Garg
1Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alberta, 2E4.16 Walter Mackenzie Health Sciences Centre, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2B7. alex@ualberta.net
Summary
Welders face a significantly higher risk of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD), especially if they smoke. Vaccination and workplace safety measures are recommended to reduce this occupational health risk.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Welders experience increased pulmonary infections due to metal fume exposure.
- This occupational group may have a higher risk of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence of IPD among welders in Alberta, Canada.
- To compare the risk of IPD in welders versus the general adult population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of IPD cases in Alberta from 2000-2004.
- Calculation of attack rates for welders and the general adult population (ages 18-65).
Main Results:
- Welders had a 2.7-fold higher incidence of IPD compared to the general adult population.
- Increased prevalence of serotypes 4 and 8 was observed in welders.
- Smoking was more prevalent among welders with IPD (15/18 patients).
Conclusions:
- Welders, particularly smokers, are at increased risk for IPD.
- Routine pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccination should be considered for welders.
- Workplace interventions to reduce fume exposure and promote smoking cessation are crucial.
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