title: [Nuclear, radiological, biological, and chemical dangers and risks].
abstract: In contrast to military conflicts natural events, industrial disasters as well as terror attacks can surprise our society without warning. In all these events nuclear, radiological, biological or chemical dangers can be involved as well. The acute or retarded health effects on the public, first responders and society are well known. The psychological strain and disconcertion have also to be considered as well. Conditions to respond to these events with success are the early recognition and introduction of appropriate immediate measures. The early recognition is as such important because these events don't only have to start with an explosion. The early recognition should maybe base on the delayed appearance of atypical symptoms or with the increase of rare illnesses. The response to some incidence will inevitable includes drastical safety precautions such as evacuations, limitations of passenger traffic or food consumption. Precautions will only be carried out if they are understood by the public. Objective information and sensiblisation of the public and all concerned by this matter is crucial; without minimization or paranoia.
authors.affiliation: Departement für Verteidigung, Bevölkerungsschutz und Sport VBS, Kompetenzzentrum ABC der Armee, ABC Zentrum, Spiez.
authors.forename: Stéphane
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Maillard
mesh_terms: D001694:Biological Warfare; D023482:Bioterrorism; D002618:Chemical Warfare; D004189:Disaster Planning; D006801:Humans; D009689:Nuclear Warfare; D011832:Radiation Injuries; D018788:Radioactive Hazard Release; D012307:Risk Factors; D013557:Switzerland