Avoiding Armageddon
WMD: A Primer

Biological Weapons

Chemical Weapons
Overview
Proliferation

Nuclear Weapons

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Chemical Weapons
Tabun Sarin VX Mustard Gas Hydrogen Cyanide Phosgene
Mustard Gas (blister agent)
Appearance and Odor:
Colorless to brownish liquid;
slight odor of garlic or mustard		 Molecular structure of mustard
Method of Absorption:
Skin contact and/or inhalation
Rate of Action:
Delayed for hours; long-term complications
Lethal Dose:
(in milligrams*)
1,500 (inhaled)
4,500 (skin)
Effects:
Eye and airway irritation, tearing, chemical skin burns and blisters, pulmonary edema, respiratory failure
Treatment†:
Remove victim from contaminated area; remove clothes; wash skin with soapy water; maintain airway and circulation;** provide oxygen; seek medical care.

† Effective medical treatment varies with each individual patient and with the circumstances of exposure. For more information consult your personal physician or a medical professional.

* Approximate median lethal dose (50 percent of those exposed die) in milligrams per minute per cubic meter (inhaled) or milligrams per kilogram of body weight (skin). The fewer the milligrams, the more toxic the agent.

** May be required before decontamination

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