What are the health effects of a nuclear bomb blast?
The health effects depend on the distance from the blast. Injury or death may result from the blast itself or from flying debris. Those who look directly at the blast could experience temporary blindness or severe eye damage. People near the blast site would be exposed to high levels of radiation causing severe skin burns, shock and death within minutes to days. People farther away may be exposed to lower doses of radiation from the blast or by breathing air, eating food or drinking water that is contaminated with fallout. Exposure to radiation increases the chance of developing cancer and other health problems years later. How can I protect my family and myself? If you are near the blast when it occurs: Turn away and close and cover your eyes. Drop to the ground face down and place your hands under your body. Remain flat until the heat and shock waves have passed. If you are outside when the blast occurs: Cover your mouth and nose with a towel or other cloth. Remove any clothes that m
