Although
first synthesized in the 1800’s, the Germans first used mustard in 1917 during
World War I. Mustard (liquid) is colorless when pure, but is normally a brown
oily substance. Mustard (vapor) has a slight garlic- or mustard-like odor. Mustard
remains a health hazard for an extended period of time. Mustard is a toxic
agent that is considered non-lethal by the Army. However, complications from
mustard exposure can lead to death.
An
individual exposed to mustard will feel very little pain and will not notice
symptoms for quite some time. However, the longer the exposure without removal
of the mustard agent, the more severe will be the damage to affected areas of
the body. Mustard is a blister agent that affects the eyes, lungs and skin. The
eyes are very susceptible, reacting to very low concentrations from mustard. Exposure
to mustard on the skin can range from redness and inflammation to severe
blisters and extreme soreness. Inhalation of the agent will cause irritation of
throat, tightness of chest, hoarseness and coughing. If medical treatment is
not received in the early stages of contamination, severe bronchopneumonia with
accompanying high fever can occur.
There is no
known antidote for mustard exposure; the process of cellular destruction is
irreversible. Therefore, it is very important to remove the mustard as quickly
as possible. The best means of removal is by flushing with water and household
bleach, or washing with soap and water after using an absorber of mustard, such
as flour.
Inhalation: Hold breath until respiratory protective mask is donned. Remove
from the source. Immediately. If breathing is difficult, administer
oxygen. If breathing has stopped, give artificial respiration. Mouth-to-mouth
resuscitation should be used when approved mask-bag or oxygen delivery systems
are not available. Do not use mouth-to-mouth resuscitation when facial
contamination is present. Seek medical attention Immediately.
Eye Contact: Speed in decontaminating the eyes is absolutely essential. Remove
the person from the liquid source; flush the eyes Immediately with water
for at least 15 minutes by tilting the head to the side, pulling the eyelids
apart with the fingers and pouring water slowly into the eyes. Do not cover
eyes with bandages but, if necessary, protect eyes by means of dark or opaque
goggles. Transfer the patient to a medical facility Immediately.
Skin Contact: Don respiratory protective mask. Remove the victim from
agent sources Immediately. Immediately wash skin and clothes with 5%
solution of sodium hypochlorite or liquid household bleach within one minute. Cut
and remove contaminated clothing, flush contaminated skin area again with 5%
sodium hypochlorite solution, then wash contaminated skin area with soap and
water. Seek medical attention Immediately.
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Give victim milk to drink. Seek
medical attention Immediately.