What Is Mercury?

Mercury is a variety of metal frequently found in certain types of edible fish. The latest news concerning mercury poisoning has surfaced suggesting that the problem may be far more perilous and extensive than formerly considered. Mercury causes particular harm to women who are pregnant or of child-bearing age, as well as any unborn fetus. Exposure to mercury has been associated with serious fetal brain damage that can lead to lifelong conditions and even death.

If you or a loved one has suffered an illness or any other injury from mercury poisoning contact Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP for a consultation. Our NY personal injury lawyers are offering free case evaluations for any potential client. Call (212) 986-7353 immediately to discuss your case.

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Who Does Mercury Poisoning Affect?

Mercury poisoning especially affects young people and unborn. High levels of mercury can cause a condition known as acrodynia, a type of poisoning that has symptoms that include sweating, skin sensitivity, pain, heart-related problems as well as the inability to correctly move or walk. The presence of mercury can affect fetal development and cause grave instances of birth defects that could remain with the child for the duration of their life.

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Seafood & Mercury Levels

The problems concerning mercury poisoning cases have become so extreme that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning page on its website for consumers. Along with the EPA, the FDA advises that any pregnant woman, woman likely to get pregnant, nursing mother or young child should avoid eating foods that contain high levels of mercury. These foods include shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish, all of which contain very high levels of mercury. Other commonly eaten food like tuna, salmon, catfish and shrimp contain lower amounts in general but are still on the caution list for people who can be potentially harmed.

Scientists and researchers are speculating that mercury levels in commonly eaten fish like tuna are increasing because of pollution and global industrial practices. The FDA recommends that people refrain from consuming foods containing more than 1 ppm of methyl mercury. Recent discoveries, though, reveal that several brands of tuna fish have more mercury than previously thought, higher than 1ppm. Additionally, a 2006 Consumer Reports article suggested that no pregnant woman should eat tuna of any kind.

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Call New York Mercury Poisoning Attorneys Today

Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP have years of experience managing mercury poisoning and other foodborne illness cases throughout the state. If you or a loved one has suffered injury due to mercury poisoning in New York, please contact us immediately. We can start working for you as soon as you contact us.

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Additional Mercury Poisoning Information