Placentas and birth fluids contain a high concentration of the infectious agent, as may milk. Avoid direct contact with the placenta or birth fluids of sheep, goats and cattle and if they must be handled, wear gloves and wash hands immediately after. This organism may cause death in humans, although more common are flu-like symptoms. Herds can be tested to see if the rickettsial organism is present. The infective bacterial spores can remain in soil for many years.
Spores usually enter the body through a puncture wound contaminated with soil or manure.
However, many human cases have followed injuries considered too trivial for medical attention and in some cases there is absolutely no record of a physical injury or wound. The incubation period is quite varied but averages 3-21 days. A common early sign suggestive of tetanus is abdominal rigidity. Prevention for personnel includes maintaining adequate vaccination and reporting any injury to the unit supervisor. Transmission occurs through a bite, scratch or abrasion from an infected animal.