Kings Health Department sends out advisory on possible mercury poisoning

It is possible that some middle-school students may have shared up to 6-8 ounces of mercury in unknown smaller quantities. The exposure may have occurred as early as October 2017.

Mercury is a naturally occurring metal that has several forms. The metallic mercury is a shiny, silver-white, odorless liquid. Mercury is a heavy substance. If a container of liquid weighs more than you might expect, it may contain mercury.

If you have not touched or had contact with mercury, there should be no risk of exposure. If you suspect contact with mercury and are not experiencing severe symptoms, please do the following:

• Remove clothing and place in a sealable bag, and then into a second sealable bag, sealing both.
• Take a shower with soap and water.
• Call Kings County Health Department at 559-584—1401 to make arrangements for someone to come and test the clothing.

Signs and symptoms of mercury exposure include Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increases in blood pressure or heart rate, skin rashes, eye irritation.