Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
9017779 | Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology | 2005 | 6 Pages |
Abstract
The sarin gas attack in the Tokyo subway system is reviewed from a clinical toxicology perspective. Based on the lessons learned from this attack, the following areas should be addressed on a global scale. First, an adequate supply of protective equipment is required, including level B protective equipment with a pressure demand breathing apparatus. In addition, a system should be established that enables a possible cause to be determined based on symptoms, physical findings, general laboratory tests, and a simple qualitative analysis for poisonous substances. If an antidote is needed, the system should enable it to be administered to the victims as quickly as possible. Preparation for a large-scale chemical attack by terrorists requires the prior establishment of a detailed decontamination plan that utilizes not only mass decontamination facilities but also public facilities in the area. A system should be established for summarizing, evaluating, and disseminating information on poisonous substances. Finally, a large-scale scientific investigation of the Tokyo sarin attack should be conducted to examine its long-term and subclinical effects and the effects of exposure to asymptomatic low levels of sarin.
Keywords
Related Topics
Life Sciences
Environmental Science
Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis
Authors
T. Okumura, T. Hisaoka, A. Yamada, T. Naito, H. Isonuma, S. Okumura, K. Miura, M. Sakurada, H. Maekawa, S. Ishimatsu, N. Takasu, K. Suzuki,