[4][7] Exposure to higher concentrations of respirable flock particles is associated with more severe disease.

[8] Whether or not smoking affects the progression or incidence of flock worker's lung is a topic of ongoing research as of 2015.

A differential diagnosis may also include Sjögren's syndrome and lymphoid interstitial pneumonia.

[9] Though X-rays may be abnormal, CT scans are more useful as a diagnostic tool in flock worker's lung.

NIOSH-certified respirators can be worn to reduce the risk of inhalation when performing certain activities.

[10] Flocking plants have also implemented medical surveillance programs for workers to diagnose cases at an earlier stage.

[4][9][11] Previously, interstitial lung disease in flock workers was incorrectly attributed to mycotoxins present in contaminated adhesive.