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Module -V
Chemical Warfare
Warfare and
the eyes, excessive watering from the eyes, reddening of face and neck, Its Types
soreness of throat, increase in pulse and respiration are observed.
(c) After 24 hours of exposure, there is a general increase in severity of above
effects. Inflammation of inner thighs, axilla, genitalia, tocks, followed by
onset of blister formation - blisters are large, filled with yellow fluid and
may be pendulous.
Note
(d) After 48 hours, the blistering becomes more marked. Swelling of genitalia,
bronchitis, expectoration of mucous and dead cells with increased
temperature is observed.
III. Blood Agents: Blood agents are mostly used as vapours and the usual entry
route is through the respiratory system. They produce their effects by interfering
with some of the vital body functions. In the liquid form the skin can absorb
them. Hydrocyanic Acid (AC) and Cyanogen Chloride (CK) are the important
agents in this group. Blood agents affect the respiratory system causing
inflammatory changes leading to pulmonary edema and stop of breath besides
local effects such as irritation of the eyes.

Symptoms of Blood Agents :Inhalation of AC or CK in sufficient quantity may
produce symptoms within seconds and death within minutes. Acute poisoning is
characterized by: -
(a) Dizziness.

(b) Headache.
(c) Palpitation.

(d) Anxiety.
(e) Ataxia, paralysis and coma.

(f) Cardiovascular collapse, respiratory arrest, convulsions and metabolic
acidosis are seen in severe cases.

IV. Choking Agents: These are chemical agents, which attack the lung tissues
causing pulmonary edema. The most common choking agent is Phosgene, which
is a non-persistent chemical agent. It is a colourless gas with a suffocating odour
reminiscent of moldy hay. Phosgene is rapidly hydrolysed in water leading to the
formation of hydrochloric acid, which is corrosive, affects lung tissues and
damages the capillaries. This is followed by seepage of fluid into the air sacs,
leading to pulmonary edema.

Symptoms of Choking Agents:
The symptoms are delayed and initially no symptoms are observed for two to

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MILITARY STUDIES 51