你家药箱里，一个存在了300多年的“剧毒物品”即将消失……

Core Viewpoint - The production of mercury thermometers and blood pressure monitors will be completely banned starting January 1 next year, as announced by the National Medical Products Administration, marking a significant shift towards safer measurement devices [1][5]. Group 1: Historical Context - Mercury thermometers have been in use for over 300 years, regarded as the "gold standard" for temperature measurement due to their accuracy and reliability [2][4]. - The principle behind mercury thermometers is based on the thermal expansion of liquids, with mercury providing a stable and wide temperature range compared to alternatives like alcohol [4]. Group 2: Reasons for the Ban - The primary reason for the ban is the toxicity of mercury, which poses health risks to the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, as well as potential harm to fetal and child development [5]. - The ban is also a commitment to the Minamata Convention, aimed at controlling global mercury pollution, as mercury can persist in the environment and convert to highly toxic methylmercury [5][7]. Group 3: Alternatives to Mercury Thermometers - Contact electronic thermometers are a viable alternative, with an accuracy range of ±0.1℃ to ±0.2℃ within the clinical measurement range of 35℃ to 41℃, meeting clinical diagnostic needs [8]. - Non-mercury thermometers made from gallium-indium-tin alloy are also available, maintaining the same operational principles as traditional thermometers but using safer materials [8]. Group 4: Environmental and Safety Considerations - While mercury thermometers are not the primary source of mercury pollution, their discontinuation will contribute to pollution control efforts [7]. - Proper disposal methods for broken mercury thermometers include using a plastic bottle for collection and ensuring safe handling to minimize exposure to mercury vapor [10].