Terrorism101 Home Page : Chemical & Biological Threats : Mustard Gas
Mustard Gas
What is it?
Mustard gas is in its pure state a colorless, odorless liquid, but when mixed with other chemicals, it looks brown and has a garlic-like smell.
How it works:
Inhaling the vapors causes painful, long-lasting blisters all over the body.
Symptoms:
Itchy skin, watery eyes and burning sensation in lungs. The long-term effects on an individual may include chronic lung impairment, chest pain and cancer of the mouth, throat, respiratory tract, and skin. It has been linked to causing leukemia and birth defects.
Prevention:
Gas mask, protective clothing.
Source: CDC & CNN [ http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/1998/iraq/9802/weapons.effects/ ]
Terrorism101 Home Page : Chemical & Biological Threats : Mustard Gas
|
|