Evaluating the proposal to ban mercury thermometers in pediatric care: A case study

Mercury, a well-known toxic heavy metal, exists in various forms, including organic, inorganic, and elemental mercury. There is growing concern that India could potentially become a focal point for mercury poisoning. Mercury’s shiny, silver appearance often piques children’s curiosity and playfulness when they encounter it in thermometers. In 2013, WHO and Health Care initiated a campaign to remove mercury from medical measuring devices by 2020. Despite the Minamata Convention’s allowance for limited use until 2030 under special circumstances, both organizations stressed the need for a complete phase-out due to significant health risks. A 7-year-old boy was brought to the hospital’s emergency room due to a cough and breathing difficulties. He had a recent history of fever and, while at a local hospital, accidentally ingested mercury and a piece of glass when a mercury thermometer broke in his mouth. A chest x-ray and x-ray abdomen confirmed the presence of radiopaque metallic particles in the body. Mercury thermometer in healthcare devices poses a high toxicity risk to children. Ensuring that devices containing mercury are kept away from children is crucial for their safety. Phasing out mercury thermometers and promoting the use of infrared thermometers is recommended.