In contrast to CW agents, the presence of BW agents cannot be detected by the physical senses or by chemical detectors. Their presence or identity can be determined only by laboratory examination of air samples  or  contaminated  objects.  The  time  lag between exposure to BW and the onset of symptoms will usually be a matter of days, rather than hours. All persons will not be similarly affected even though exposed to the same dosage of BW agents. Some may escape disease entirely, some may have a very mild attack, and some may become seriously ill. PROTECTIVE  MEASURES Defense  against  BW  is  not  simple  or  easy. Individual protection against a BW attack includes the use of protective equipment. The protective equipment used for defense against CW may also be used for BW defense. Your first line of defense against BW is the natural  resistance  of  the  body  (the  immune  system)  and maintaining  your  body  in  the  best  possible  physical condition. A high standard of personal cleanliness and careful attention to sanitation are your best assurance against the spread of disease. Such steps are supported by the immunizations you receive periodically. The inhalation of airborne germs is considered to be  the  greatest  potential  hazard  in  BW.  Your  protective mask   is   an   important   component   of   defensive equipment.  A  properly  fitted  mask,  which  has  been kept in good condition, will greatly reduce the danger of inhaling infectious material present in the air. Since you cannot detect the presence of biological agents, you may be ordered to use your protective mask and equipment  until  the  danger  has  passed.  Your commanding officer will base his/her decision upon information received from intelligence reports and the advice  of  his/her  technical  staff  or  higher  headquarters. To produce disease, germs must actually gain entrance into your body. When germs collect on your skin, they may be transferred to a portal of entry, through your nose or mouth. Cuts or open sores are an invitation to germs trying to enter your body. Make sure you keep cuts bandaged. Any type of clothing will provide some protection against BW agents. The degree of protection depends upon the size of the pores in the fabric and the number of layers of clothing being worn. To keep out germs and disease-bearing insects such as mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks, it is important to fasten the shirt and jacket collar, roll down sleeves and button cuffs, and tie down all other clothes. A special uniform   (not   discussed   in   this   book)   used   for The following survival tips are recommended for your protection: REPORT SICKNESS PROMPTLY. If you become ill, notify medical immediately. KEEP YOURSELF AND YOUR LIVING QUARTERS CLEAN. Do not foster the growth of germs by making it easy for them to multiply. Germs 13-37 protection against CW agents gives a higher degree of protection against BW agents than ordinary clothing. DECONTAMINATION The  extent  to  which  decontamination  can  be accomplished  following  exposure  to  BW  agents depends  upon  the  existing  tactical  situation  and  the facilities available. Each person is responsible for carrying out personal decontamination measures at the earliest opportunity. If you are exposed to BW agents, scrub yourself thoroughly with soap and water as soon as the combat situation permits. Give special attention to your face and hands. To remove dirt from under your nails, use a fingernail  brush.  Also,  brush  your  teeth  frequently. Carefully remove your contaminated clothes and take a bath or shower. All washable clothes polluted with germs should be scrubbed at the first opportunity. Always be careful about the food and water you consume in combat. If you are told that a BW attack has  occurred,  be  extremely  cautious.  One  of  the easiest ways to get biological agents inside your body is to swallow them along with your food and water. Defense  against  BW  includes: Remember the “BIO” sign; it means the area is contaminated with biological agents. Do not pick and eat fruits or berries. Do not chew grass or leaves. Do not eat native food or drink native beverages. They may be contaminated intentionally or unintentionally. Do not take souvenirs. Consume  only  beverages  received  from  military sources. Do not bathe in lakes or ponds. Do not touch animals. Survival Tips for Biological Warfare