Increased numbers of dead animals of all species, such as rats for plague, or horses with equine encephalitis viruses. Protection of those working in indoor environments or environments with filtered air at the time of the attack. The near simultaneous outbreak of similar or different epidemics at the same site or at different sites in a TO or at military installations around the world. The MTF should attempt to identify the agent using whatever laboratory resources are available. The MTF should collect and transport appropriate environmental samples and biological specimens to more capable medical laboratory facilities, such as the Forward Naval Laboratory or the Area Medical Laboratory.
Decontamination is performed prior to the delivery of definitive care in MTFs.
Decontamination does not imply absolute removal of contaminants. The outer layer of clothing is removed and contaminated skin is washed with germicidal soap or 0.5 percent hypochlorite and warm water. The clothing removal step in the decontamination process offers the greatest opportunity for contaminant removal. Removal of the BDO normally decontaminates approximately 90 to 94 percent of the BW agent. If removal of the BDO adequately decontaminates the patient, the rest of the clothing is not removed.