Since I can't see the passage I have limited ability to help you, however, we can look at how the words makes you feel and that might help you discover the tone. All three words give off a sense and feeling of disgust, whatever is happening is meant to make you either uncomfortable or perhaps upset about what is going on. For example if the words were in a sentences about pollution, you'd feel upset and even repulsed by the the information you're being given.
If you add the passage, I can't help you out a little more, but this is as good as I can do without the said passage.
Hope this helped!