Phosgene oxime is a manufactured chemical warfare agent. It is colorless in its solid form and yellowish-brown when it is a liquid. It is also known as a corrosive agent because of the type of damage it causes on the skin and tissue. Phosgene oxime has an irritating odor. It does not last for a long time in the environment. It breaks down in soil within 2 hours when the temperature is normal, and it breaks down in water within a few days.

If phosgene oxime liquid is released into the water or comes into contact with food, you can be exposed by touching or drinking the water or by eating food that’s been contaminated. If released as a gas into the air, people can be exposed if inhaled, through skin or eye contact. The extent of the phosgene oxime poisoning will depend on the amount, the length of time exposed, and how the person is exposed.

Symptoms occur right away following exposure to phosgene oxime.

Phosgene oxime can penetrate through clothing and rubber faster than any other chemical warfare agents. The skin will become painful within seconds, the area whitened and surrounded by red rings within 30 seconds of exposure. Hives develop within 15 minutes. After 24 hours, the whitened areas of skin turn brown and die. Itching and pain may continue throughout the healing process. The eyes may become severely painful, tearing, irritation, and temporary blindness. If inhaled, you can experience symptoms of shortness of breath or coughing hoarseness, a runny nose, sinus pain, and it may result in the lungs.

If you think you have been exposed, leave the area quickly and get to fresh air. Remove your clothing and quickly wash your entire body with soap and water. If your eyes are burning or your vision is blurred, rinse them with plain water for 10 to 15 minutes. If you wear contacts, remove them before rinsing your eyes. Place your contaminated clothes and contacts into a plastic bag and seal. Place the bag into a second plastic bag and seal. If you have swallowed the phosgene oxime, do not induce vomiting or drink fluids. Call 911 for medical attention right away and removal of the contaminated items. Do not drive yourself to the hospital as you may become very ill on your way.

Regional Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222)

www.bt.cdc.gov/

www.dshs.state.tx.us

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)