The availability of data from animal studies, in the absence of human data, may provide useful information in a risk assessment. Information about pathogenicity, infectivity, and route of transmission in animals may provide valuable clues. Caution must always be exercised, however, in translating infectivity data from one species of animal to another species. The established availability of an effective prophylaxis or therapeutic intervention is another essential factor to be considered. The most common form of prophylaxis is immunization with an effective vaccine.
Risk assessment includes determining the availability of effective immunizations.
However important, immunization only serves as an additional layer of protection beyond engineering controls, proper practices and procedures, and the use of personal protective equipment. The offer of immunizations is part of risk management. Medical surveillance ensures that the safeguards decided upon in fact produce the expected health outcomes. Medical surveillance is part of risk management. It may include serum banking, monitoring employee health status, and participating in post-exposure management.