Question
Can a child’s accidental ingestion of a small amount of mercury be harmful?
Answer
Mercury is toxic in its pure form, but its compounds and salts are highly toxic, and ingestion, inhalation, or contact can lead to damage to the brain and liver. Therefore, most thermometers today use alcohol instead of mercury. Many medical thermometers still use mercury due to its high precision. Mercury poisoning is a symptom of mercury toxicity, which can damage the nervous system and have adverse effects on mucous membranes and teeth. Survival Care: Mercury is a toxin that can accumulate in the body. It is easily absorbed through the skin as well as through the respiratory and digestive tracts.