Sources of Mercury Poisoning

Mercury is widely distributed in nature. It is highly poisonous to both plants and animals. Chronic exposure to mercury has far-reaching effects on human health and the environment.

Increasing Emissions

The amount of mercury air emissions has increased over the last few decades as a result of arbitrary and indiscriminate use of coal in electric power plants. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, widespread burning of coal is the largest source of manmade mercury air emissions in the United States.

Vaccine Danger

Mercury poisoning can occur in infants through vaccinations. Most vaccines and certain medications include a preservative known as thimerosal, which contains more than 50 percent mercury by weight.

Over the Counter Medicine

A large number of drugs sold over the counter use mercury heavily. These include, but are not limited to, eye drops, nasal sprays, allergy injections and antiseptics.

Elemental Exposure

Elemental mercury exposure takes place when a device or machine which contains mercury (i.e. thermometers, barometers) accidentally breaks. The spilled mercury vaporizes into noxious fumes that can cause significant damage if inhaled.

Dental Amalgam

Dental amalgam (fillings) is chiefly composed of mercury, which can cause mercury poisoning.

References

• "Prescription for Nutritional Healing;" Phyllis A. Balch; 2006
• "Earth in the Balance: Ecology and the Human Spirit;" Albert Gore; 2000