Protections from Biological Agents Information is the key to avoiding biological agents. Both laboratory and clinical information is necessary for the detection of biological agents. Although difficult, early detection of biological agents is essential and may involve tracking patients with unusual symptoms. Additional protective measures to avoid biological agents include immunization, and medicating those at risk and those exposed before illness occurs.

• Proper Self-Protection. Air-Purifying Respirators (APR) with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters or Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) combined with clothing and unbroken skin are the first line of defense and provide good protection.
• Use good sanitation measures: eat and drink nothing in the immediate area of the incident, touch nothing if possible, and wash hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Contamination requires decontamination. 
• Individuals should observe blood-borne pathogen universal precautions as the first line of protection/defense. If flu-like or other symptoms appear, seek medical attention immediately. If suspicious of contamination, do not wait for the presentation of symptoms; seek medical attention immediately.