The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer.
Mercury and Your Health
Many people played with liquid mercury as children, not realizing that it can cause serious health problems. Mercury gives off an invisible vapor that can be harmful to your health, but it's especially harmful to the health of children and unborn babies. Use the links below to learn more...
Mercury & Your Family's Health
Click on the link above to learn more about how you might be exposed to mercury and the health problems it may cause.
Did you know animals can be affected by mercury, too?
Click on the link above to learn the signs of mercury poisoning in animals and ways to keep your family's best friend safe.
Unlike the mercury in thermometers, you can't see the mercury found in some types of fish with your eyes. Fish are a healthy part of anyone's diet, but choosing the right fish for you and your family is important. Learn more about choosing safer fish for you and your family by clicking the link above.
If you have a mercury spill in your home...
If you spill mercury in your home, it's important you do the right thing to protect you and your family from the mercury vapors and limit the time and money you spend on clean-up. Click on the link above to learn the first important steps to take after a mercury spill and how you might be able to safely clean up the mercury yourself.
At your doctor's office...
Blood pressure cuffs that have mercury in them aren't supposed to be used for patients care anymore. They are supposed to be locked up and only used to calibrate modern blood pressure cuffs. (Michigan Public Act 493 - 2006)
The Accuracy of Alternatives to Mercury Sphygmomanometers (external link)
*** Health Alert ***
On May 19, 2010, the California Department of Public Health issued a warning regarding high levels of mercury in a popular "unlabeled" face cream from Mexico that is used to for lightening the skin, fading freckles and age spots, and preventing acne.
Signs and symptoms of mild to moderate toxicity due to inorganic mercury may include nervousness and irritability, difficulty with concentration, headache, tremors, memory loss, depression, insomnia, weight loss, and fatigue. Other symptoms may include numbness or tingling in hands, feet, or around the lips.
Read more: