7-3. Classification of Chemical and Biological Agents

Table of Contents

• a. Chemical agents are classified according to the primary physiological effects they produce, such as blistering, choking, vomiting, and incapacitating agents.
• b. Biological warfare agents are classified according to the effect they have on man. The effects include their ability to incapacitate and cause death. Most biological warfare agents are delivered as aerosols that effect the respiratory tract; some can be delivered by releasing infected insects, by contaminating food and water, and by injection (injecting material in individuals by terrorist, not mass exposure). These agents are found in living organisms such as fungi, bacteria, and viruses.

WARNING

Swallowing water or food contaminated with nerve, blister, and other chemical agents and with some biological agents can be fatal. NEVER consume water or food that is suspected of being contaminated until it has been tested and found safe for consumption by medical personnel.