Biological Attack, Release or Outbreak
Biological agents are more deadly than chemical agents and occur in nature as well as through manmade development. Biological agents generally fall into one of three types: pathogens (living, reproducing diseases), parasitic microorganisms (in the forms of bacteria) and viruses.
If a biological attack, release or outbreak develops, notify the Office of Campus and Community Safety Services immediately at extension 5444 or 5445 and the Office of Environmental Health and Safety at extension 5400.
Biological Safety: Universal Precautions
- Barrier protection (e.g., disposable lab coats, gloves, and eye and face protection) should be used at all times to prevent skin and mucous membrane contamination.
- Wash hands immediately after gloves are removed.
- Avoid accidental injuries that can be caused by needles, scalpel blades and laboratory instruments.
In the Event of an Incident
- Ensure that all lab students and staff are present and accounted for.
- Consider establishing a temporary decontamination or quarantine location.
Indicators of Biological Incident
Symptoms may not present themselves for one to 20 days, depending on the agent. These may include:
- Fever, headache, chills and nausea
- Sweating, weakness and fatigue
- Respiratory distress
- Difficulty in talking or eating
- Joint and muscle pain
- Unusual number of sick or dying people and animals
- Unusual swarms of insects
