VX is the deadliest known poison used as an agent in chemical weapons . VX is a nerve agent, a class of chemicals that also includes sarin . VX is easily inhaled when vaporized by a weapon’s explosion . The chemical can also penetrate human skin. Even a tiny amount of VX causes a person’s muscles and glands to become overstimulated. The victim suffers frothing around the mouth, convulsions , and paralysis . The victim dies within minutes unless an antidote kit containing atropine is administered immediately. As with other nerve agents, the use of VX in warfare is banned under international law .
The effects of VX are similar to those of sarin. But a given amount of VX is much more deadly than the same amount of sarin and can more easily penetrate skin. Unlike sarin, VX is a persistent toxin. It remains in the environment for a relatively long time after it is dispersed. Thus, VX can be used to contaminate an area, preventing enemy forces from returning after an attack. VX is an extremely complex chemical. It requires advanced skills and equipment to produce.
United States scientists created VX in the late 1950’s. They were developing new nerve agents based on a formula they had received from the British government. During the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988), the Iraqi government of Saddam Hussein was accused of using VX against Iranian forces.
See also Chemical Weapons Convention ; Chemical-biological-radiological warfare (CBR) .
