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Acute Biological Toxins
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Acute Toxins of Biological Origin
Biological toxins are hazardous substances produced by microorganisms, animals, insects, and plants that can be harmful when inhaled, ingested, injected, or absorbed. Depending on the toxin and amount and route of exposure, health effects can range from minor (skin or eye irritation, headache, nausea) to severe (respiratory distress, muscle weakness, seizures, death).
Toxins with a mammalian lethal dose (LD50) ≤ 100 µg/kg body weight are considered acute toxins and pose the greatest risk. These toxins have no established safe exposure limits. Most acute toxins are stable proteins (or carbohydrates) requiring rigorous inactivation of contaminated surfaces, objects, and waste.