The topical steroid should follow the wet dressing immediately. Secondary infections are treated with appropriate antibiotics. If significant pruritus occurs, an oral antihistamine should be used. In the rare event of pulmonary effects following massive exposure, evacuation for hospital care is required. Most persons affected by irritant agents require no medical attention.
Casualties are rare.
Severe reactions of the eyes or the skin may take days or weeks to heal, depending upon their severity. General Vomiting agents produce strong pepper-like irritation in the upper respiratory tract with irritation of the eyes and lacrimation. They cause violent uncontrollable sneezing, coughing, nausea, vomiting, and a general feeling of bodily discomfort. They are dispersed as aerosols and produce their effects by inhalation or by direct action on the eyes. The protective mask gives adequate protection against field concentrations of vomiting agents.