During an outbreak with an undetermined causative agent, which precaution should be taken?

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When the causative agent is unknown, the safest approach is to use personal protective equipment to create a physical barrier against potential transmission pathways. Unknown pathogens can spread in multiple ways—through touching contaminated surfaces, droplets, or even airborne routes—so equipping responders with gloves, gown, eye/face protection, and appropriate respiratory protection helps prevent exposure while the situation is clarified. This protective layer works alongside standard precautions and any additional transmission-based measures identified by risk assessment, but it cannot wait for a name or a confirmed route of spread. Delaying protection or relying only on administrative measures leaves personnel vulnerable and increases the risk of secondary cases.