Core Viewpoint - China will ban the production of mercury thermometers and sphygmomanometers starting January 1, 2026, due to health and environmental concerns, marking the end of an era for mercury-based medical devices [1][2]. Group 1: Health Risks of Mercury - Mercury, contained in traditional thermometers, poses significant health risks, including acute symptoms like headaches and chronic effects such as damage to the central nervous system and kidneys [2][3]. - Sensitive populations, including children and pregnant women, are at risk of irreversible harm, such as developmental delays and fetal deformities due to mercury exposure [3]. Group 2: Environmental Impact - Mercury is a neurotoxic heavy metal that can accumulate in the food chain, posing risks to marine life and human health [4]. - The biological magnification of mercury can lead to high concentrations in marine organisms, which can ultimately affect human consumers [4]. Group 3: Transition to Alternative Products - The market is shifting towards electronic and non-mercury alternatives, which are safer and more user-friendly [8]. - Various alternatives include gallium-indium-tin thermometers, electronic thermometers, ear thermometers, and forehead thermometers, each with unique features and accuracy levels [8][10]. Group 4: Usage and Safety Guidelines - Existing mercury thermometers can still be used if intact and within the registration validity period, but users should be aware of the associated risks and proper handling methods [5]. - In case of breakage, specific steps must be followed for safe cleanup, including ventilation and proper collection of mercury beads [6][7]. Group 5: Accuracy of Electronic Devices - Concerns about the accuracy of electronic thermometers exist, with reported discrepancies of up to 1°C among different brands [10]. - It is crucial to choose products with medical device registration and to follow proper usage instructions to ensure reliable readings [10].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the impending ban on the production of mercury thermometers starting January 1, 2026, due to health and safety concerns related to mercury exposure, highlighting the transition to safer alternatives [12][15][27]. Group 1: Background and Reasons for the Ban - The National Medical Products Administration announced the ban in 2020, allowing a five-year grace period for manufacturers [12][15]. - The ban is part of a global initiative involving over 150 countries, known as the Minamata Convention on Mercury, aimed at reducing mercury use due to its harmful effects on human health and the environment [17][24]. - Historical incidents, such as the mercury poisoning in Minamata, Japan, underscore the dangers of mercury exposure, leading to widespread regulatory changes [18][20][22]. Group 2: Public Reaction and Market Impact - The announcement triggered a rush among consumers to purchase mercury thermometers, reflecting a deep-seated reliance on this traditional tool [10][11]. - The article notes that the fear and urgency in family groups on social media indicate a significant emotional attachment to mercury thermometers, which many associate with authority and reliability [7][8]. Group 3: Alternatives and Accuracy of New Thermometers - The article emphasizes that compliant electronic thermometers can achieve similar accuracy to mercury thermometers, with a maximum allowable error of ±0.1°C within the specified range [42]. - It discusses various types of thermometers, including electronic, ear, and forehead thermometers, and their respective accuracy standards [44][45]. - The introduction of gallium-indium alloy thermometers is presented as a viable alternative, combining the traditional use of mercury thermometers with improved safety [66][71]. Group 4: Safety Concerns and Proper Handling - The article outlines the dangers of mercury exposure, including the potential for severe health risks if mercury is not properly contained and cleaned up [30][29]. - It provides guidelines for safely handling broken mercury thermometers, emphasizing the importance of ventilation and proper disposal methods [33][35].