The estimated lethal dose is only 0.001 microgram per kilogram of body weight. Botulinum toxin kills by interfering with the nervous system, blocking neurotransmissions. Some chemical warfare agents, like the nerve agents sarin and VX, similarly attack the central nervous system, but botulinum toxin is much more toxic. The progressive muscular weakness is a precursor to sudden respiratory failure. The onset of the disease varies from hours to days after exposure, depending on the dose of the toxin.
Laboratory tests are generally of limited value in the diagnosis of botulism.
The Gulf War disrupted Saddam Hussein's biological, chemical, ballistic missile, and nuclear weapons programs. Rickettsia Staphyloccal enterotoxins Wheat cover smut Haemorrhagic conjunctivitis virus Rotavirus Camel pox virus D. US Biological Warfare Defense Defense against biological and chemical warfare agents entails using common protective equipment and procedures. Larger particles probably will not migrate to the lungs, and breathing usually will expel smaller particles from the lungs. The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs and the three service surgeons general endorsed this recommendation to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. An Office of the Special Assistant information paper more thoroughly discusses the Department of Defense immunization program.