Numerous Gulf War veterans have reported a range of illnesses and symptoms after serving in the Persian Gulf. Some of the reported symptoms are similar to those caused by diseases known to be prevalent in that region. This report discusses these infectious diseases and considers them as potential causes of the symptoms reported by the veterans. The authors present a short summary of etiology, diagnosis, and treatment for several infectious diseases and infectious organisms, including bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections. Two biological agents, anthrax and botulinum toxin, are also discussed.

"Prepared for the Office of the Secretary of Defense." "The research was carried out jointly by RAND's Center for Military Health Policy Research and the Forces and Resources Policy Center of RAND's National Defense Research Institute, a federally funded research and development center supported by the OSD, the Joint Staff, the unified commands, and the defense agencies"--Cover verso.

Introduction --Infectious diseases as a possible cause of Gulf War illnesses -- Bacterial diseases (Mycoplasma) -- Bacterial diseases (other than Mycoplasma) -- Viral diseases -- Parasitic diseases -- Biological warfare agents -- Unidentified infections -- Conclusions and recommendations.