Abstract
Terrorists may choose chemical agents as they can be dispersed over large areas and can eventually penetrate even the most well defended positions. These agents can be deployed against specific targets, and depending on the agent used, the effects can be immediate or delayed. Chemical agents can cause incapacitation, disorientation, or death. Many of the more commonly used agents can be produced inexpensively and easily stored. Chemical warfare agents can be delivered by a variety of methods: bomb, spray tanks, rockets, missiles, land mines, and artillery projectiles. Few indicators of a chemical attack may be evident at first. The initial observation of unusual signs and symptoms that correlate with nerve, vesicant, blood, or pulmonary agent exposures should raise immediate suspicion of poisoning. Chemical agents have also their problems as agents of terror. They are most effective in confined spaces. Chemical warfare agents dissipate quickly and degrade or adhere to surfaces. Attacks need to be well coordinated for dispersal of the agent and escape from the area of deployment. Both livestock and pet animals can be exposed to chemical agents during a terrorist attack. Treatment of animals is secondary to treating human casualties.
Published Version
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