[Preventive measures against infections, including viruses in the workplace]

Pandemics such as COVID-19 have wreaked havoc on society in general, and they are still having a lasting impact, with peak infections in summer and winter. Novel emerging infectious diseases and re-emerging ones that are attracting renewed attention will continue to affect workplaces in the future. Herein, we focus on the latest reports on COVID-19 and explain what preventive measures are necessary in the workplace, taking into account the route of virus infection. Although droplets and airborne exposure are the main infection routes, contact infection cannot be overlooked. Infection prevention measures include the uses of natural and mechanical ventilation, air conditioning equipment, and masks as well as the recommendation of vaccination, all of which have reported effectiveness However, since indoor environments vary, we do not recommend preventive control through any one measure alone. Instead, implementing infection control by using a combination of measures is important for adaptation to various situations.