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NSC releases responder resources for ‘fourth generation agent’ incidents

The National Security Council developed resources to help first responders prepare for and respond to a fourth generation agent incident

By News Staff

WASHINGTON — Resources were developed to help first responders prepare for and respond to a fourth generation agent incident.

According to a press release, the White House National Security Council launched a federal interagency working group to develop the resources after a 2018 incident involving a fourth generation agent in the United Kingdom.

A fourth generation agent is described as “chemical warfare agents that are unique organophosphorus compounds. They are more persistent than other nerve agents.”

fga.jpg

Upon an M8 paper’s exposure to a liquid, a yellow/green or green/blue color is indicative of an FGA.

Photo/CHEMM

“While fourth generation agents share similar characteristics with other nerve agents, fourth generation agents also pose several unique challenges in terms of toxicity, detection, persistence, and potential for delayed onset of symptoms,” the press release said.

The NSC developed the following resources to “provide tailored guidance to various segments of the emergency response community.”

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