Question
If a mercury thermometer breaks in a cup, is it safe to drink the water?
Answer
Based on the description, if no mercury was ingested, there is no need to be overly concerned. However, if mercury is accidentally ingested, immediate action should be taken, such as drinking large amounts of milk, soy milk, or protein drinks to slow down the absorption of mercury. At the same time, take a laxative to promote the excretion of mercury from the body. If there are still concerns, it is recommended to seek medical examination of mercury levels as soon as possible, and mercury chelation treatment can be performed under the guidance of a doctor. The best way to prevent the harm of mercury is to avoid using mercury thermometers to reduce the risk of accidental ingestion.