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Exposure to Chemical Warfare Agents

Post-9/11 Vet Newsletter: Information for Veterans who served in Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and New Dawn.
 
Two U.S. soldiers in full uniform tape a detonation cord during explosives training in a desert.

U.S. Army Pfc. Bittner, left, and U.S. Navy
Petty Officer 3rd Class Ashley North use tape
to wrap detonation cord during weapons and
explosives training.
Lt. Chad A. Dulac, U.S. Navy.

Servicemembers who handled or demolished explosive ordnances during Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation New Dawn (OND) may have been exposed to toxic chemical warfare agents (CWAs), such as mustard agents or sarin, and may experience related health effects. VA and the Department of Defense (DoD) are working to identify and contact active duty Servicemembers and Veterans who may have been exposed to CWAs.

If you believe you may have been exposed to CWAs and have not already been contacted, please call the DoD hotline at 1-800-497-6261. VA and DoD would like to ensure that your exposures are documented, and that you are aware of any related health care benefits.

For more information on exposure to CWAs, visit www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/chemical-warfare-agents-oif.asp.

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