水银体温计退场！2026年1月1日正式停产
Starting January 1st, 2026, China will stop the production of mercury (水银) thermometers and blood pressure monitors. This decision is an important step to control mercury pollution and reduce health risks, as safer alternatives are now widely available.
For many years, the mercury thermometer was a common item in households across China. It was valued for being affordable, easy to use, and very reliable. Its high sensitivity and ability to work in different conditions made it a trusted tool for checking temperature. The glass casing, though common, was also its main weakness because it could break easily.
However, this familiar device contains a hidden danger. Inside, there is about one gram of mercury, a highly poisonous heavy metal. The World Health Organization lists mercury as one of the top ten chemicals harmful to public health. Exposure can damage the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, as well as the lungs, kidneys, skin, and eyes. If the glass breaks, the spilled mercury can evaporate into an invisible vapor. Breathing in this vapor or touching the liquid metal can be very dangerous to health.
If a thermometer breaks, it is important to stay calm and act carefully. First, open windows to let fresh air ventilate the room. Carefully collect the small mercury beads using cardboard or sticky tape, and seal them in a container. This waste should be taken to a special site for dangerous materials. Do not use a vacuum cleaner or broom, as they will spread the mercury and make the problem worse. If someone is cut by the glass, rinse the wound under clean, running water immediately to wash away any mercury.