Chemical, Radiation, Biological and Nuclear Threats

Description

In this presentation by Andrew Johnston, the focus is on the historical and contemporary use of chemical weapons, particularly in the Middle East. Johnston discusses the extensive stockpiles of chemical agents held by countries like Russia, notably their capacity to produce nerve agents like Sarin and VX quickly. He highlights the effectiveness of these weapons, noting that they were not particularly lethal against well-protected military personnel in past conflicts, such as World War I, where mortality rates were around 10%. The lecture moves on to the use of chemical weapons in the Iran-Iraq War and the tragic events in Halabja during 1988, where thousands of civilians were killed. Johnston informs listeners of the dangers posed not only by nation-states using these weapons but also by terrorist organizations capable of crafting similar agents.



The presentation includes a detailed explanation of the mechanisms of nerve agents, such as their binding to acetylcholinesterase in the body, leading to severe neurological symptoms and requiring immediate administration of antidotes like atropine and pralidoxime for effective treatment. He illustrates the clinical presentation of poisoning with videos showcasing symptoms exhibited by victims of these agents. Johnston aims to prepare healthcare professionals for recognizing and managing chemical weapon exposures, stressing the need for effective decontamination protocols and supportive care. Ultimately, the talk serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing threat posed by chemical weapons, the challenges in managing their use, and the medical responses required in such dire situations.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-230068

Specialties