Core Viewpoint - The market for mercury thermometers is experiencing a surge in demand due to the upcoming ban on their production starting January 1, 2026, as part of China's commitment to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, leading to public nostalgia and stockpiling behavior [1][5][6] Group 1: Market Dynamics - There has been a noticeable increase in the purchase of mercury thermometers, with individuals buying multiple units at a time, reflecting a stockpiling trend [1][2] - The price of mercury thermometers has significantly increased, with reports of prices rising from around 6 yuan to as high as 20 yuan per unit on e-commerce platforms [7] Group 2: Health and Safety Concerns - Mercury, the core component of these thermometers, poses serious health risks, including acute poisoning and long-term neurological damage, leading to their prohibition in many countries [3][4] - The environmental impact of mercury is also a concern, as it can accumulate in the food chain and disrupt ecological balance [3][4] Group 3: Transition to Alternatives - Various alternatives to mercury thermometers are available, including non-mercury glass thermometers, electronic thermometers, ear thermometers, and forehead thermometers, which are gaining popularity [8][10] - The sales of electronic thermometers have seen a significant increase, with a reported growth of over 100% in the past week, indicating a shift towards safer and smarter health monitoring solutions [8][10] Group 4: Institutional Response - Different medical institutions are at varying stages of transitioning away from mercury thermometers, with some still relying on them while others have already adopted alternatives [2][6] - Education on the safe handling and disposal of mercury thermometers is essential as they remain in use during the transition period [7][10]