Conclusions
nReducing the amount of mercury in the environment will reduce the amount of mercury available to bioaccumulate in fish tissue.
n
nHowever, there is inadequate data to allow WVDHHR to estimate the effect restricting mercury emissions in West Virginia might have on this state’s fish.
Based on the review of information cited in this report and the conclusions, WVDHHR recommends the following:
Even with this limited data, WVDEP should continue to reduce mercury emissions, due to potential adverse health effects from mercury exposure.
WVDEP – Water and Waste Management should re-sample fish tissue for mercury residues, as planned, in watersheds where the most restrictive fish advisories occur.
WVDNR and/or WVDEP should collect additional data about West Virginian’s fish consumption habits.
WVDHHR should increase the public’s awareness of fish advisories.
WVDHHR encourages the removal and proper disposal of mercury-containing materials from homes, schools, and workplaces.
West Virginian’s should eat fish as part of a well-balanced diet while following fish advisories to avoid harmful amounts of chemicals. People should be especially careful to follow fish advisories during a woman’s childbearing years and when infants and young children are in the household.
West Virginian’s, particularly children, should be educated to avoid handling elemental mercury and what should be done should a spill occur.
People who eat a substantial amount of fish or work with mercury should mention this to their dentist or other health care provider when mercury-containing dental amalgams are recommended. This is especially recommended for children 6-years-old or younger and women who are pregnant or nursing. In all cases, the choice not to use mercury amalgam should be made in consultation with a qualified dentist (and/or physician) and weighed against the risk of alternative practices or materials.