Occupational diseases are diseases caused by prolonged direct exposure to the working environment and conditions at a particular workplace. A large proportion of poultry farmers are exposed to various risk factors at their workplace, which can be divided into biological, chemical, physical, ergonomic and safety-related risk factors. The atmosphere in the poultry house is characterised by a high concentration of various pollutants (bioaerosols), which primarily include dust particles, pathogenic microorganisms and endotoxins. Gases also pose a risk, such as ammonia, which is produced during the decomposition of poultry secretions and can be found in high concentrations in poultry houses. Respiratory diseases (asthma, bronchitis, allergic alveolitis) are widespread among poultry farmers, mostly due to biological and chemical risk factors. The work of poultry farmers takes place under difficult working conditions, as they are exposed to high heat, noise, stress and high humidity during working hours. Eye and skin damage is mainly caused by the use of disinfectants and medication as well as contact with various allergens. The health of poultry farmers is also at risk from zoonoses. These are diseases that are transmitted from animals to humans and vice versa. Various types of musculoskeletal disorders are also common among workers due to the physical demands of the work.
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