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Interim guidelines for action in the event of a (suspected) deliberate release of tularemia
Francisella tularensis does not occur naturally in the United Kingdom and
the very few numbers of cases seen have all been acquired abroad.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) and Centres for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC) in the United States anticipate that the greatest
impact in terms or mortality and morbidity following intentional release of
F. tularensis would be achieved through aerosolisation of a virulent strain,
making inhalation into the lungs the most likely route of infection.
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General information - tularemia
Tularemia is a zoonosis, an infection which can be spread from animals to humans. It can also be waterborne, airborne or contracted via insect bites. It is caused by the bacterium, Francisella tularensis, which can infect many animals, especially small rodents, rabbits and hares. more
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Nerve agents: Guidelines for action in the event of a deliberate release
The nerve agents are a group of particularly toxic chemical warfare agents.
They are chemically related to organophosphorus insecticides. The principle
agents in this group are tabun (GA), soman (GD), sarin (GB), GF and VX.
A small drop of liquid nerve agent on the skin may be sufficient to cause
death. Nerve agents may be absorbed by inhalation, ingestion or through the skin. more
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Nerve agents key points
Read this two-pager on the key items to remember when dealing with the deliberate release of never agents. Pearls such as: protective clothing and full respiratory protection must be worn in contaminated areas or when handling casualties contaminated with liquid agent; off-gassing of volatile nerve agents from casualties may be sufficient to cause symptoms; casualties should be transported in such a way that emergency personnel do not become contaminated, or exposed to fumes, etc.
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Interim guidance for the investigation and management of outbreaks and incidents of unusual illness
Outbreaks and incidents of unusual illnesses might have any one of a number of causes: infectious, chemical, nutritional, radiological or even hysterical. In a few instances, chemical or biological agents have been released deliberately. This document is intended as an aid to decision making for those working in the NHS in England who may be involved in the initial investigation, management and response to outbreaks of unusual illness where the cause is not immediately apparent. It also aims to assist health personnel in making a judgement about whether an outbreak is due to natural or accidental cause or deliberate release. more
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