ABS-CBN News Online Beta

Mercury thermometers, sphygmomanometers banned in Munti

abs-cbnNEWS.com | 10/07/2008 6:55 PM

Printer-friendly version | Send to friend

The Muntinlupa City government has banned the use of mercury thermometers and sphygmomanometers (a medical gadget that measures blood pressure) in all city-run health centers to protect babies and patients against mercury poisoning.

“We will no longer use mercury-containing medical devices and equipment for the sake of the health of our residents,” Mayor Aldrin San Pedro said.

San Pedro said the order is in compliance with the newly-issued administrative order of the Department of Health, which calls for the gradual phase-out in the use of mercury in all health care facilities in the country in the next two years.  

San Pedro said the city government is already in the process of purchasing digital thermometers and aneroid sphygmomanometers as replacements for the banned devices. 

He said all mercury-containing devices will be used by all health centers until their replacements are ready.

San Pedro has already directed the city’s health office to issue a memorandum to all of its employees and health centers in barangays regarding the ban.

The City Health Office will retrieve all mercury containing thermometers and sphygmomanometers, through its Mercury Management Team.

The city government will also coordinate with the DOH on the proper handling, storage and disposal of mercury contained in medical equipment.

“People are unaware of the dangers of mercury on their health. We also need to educate them that mercury poses hazards in case there is leakage or breakage of medical equipment,” said San Pedro.  

Muntinlupa city health officer Dr. Edilinda Patac said mercury, if inhaled, can cause harmful effects to the body including the kidneys and lungs. People who have been exposed to mercury can experience tremors, impaired vision and hearing, paralysis, insomnia and emotional instability, she said.

as of 10/08/2008 11:37 AM