What are Mustards and Lewsites classified as?

Mustards and Lewsites are classified as blistering agents, which are chemical warfare agents that cause severe skin blistering and damage to the respiratory tract, eyes, and internal organs upon exposure. The mechanism of action for blistering agents primarily revolves around their ability to form blister-like lesions on the skin and mucosal surfaces. These agents have a delayed effect, meaning symptoms may not manifest immediately after exposure, leading to further complications as victims might initially feel fine.

Understanding the characteristics of blistering agents is crucial for emergency response personnel, including firefighters and hazmat operators, as they must identify and respond to these types of chemical incidents appropriately. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of exposure to blistering agents is essential for providing effective medical treatment and ensuring the safety of responders and victims.