However, health effects of mercury may include damage to the nervous system in the unborn child. Pregnant women who have high amounts of mercury in their body pass some directly to the fetus. In order to determine levels of contaminants. Biologist sample fish populations and collect fish tissue for laboratory analysis. However, analysis of limited fish tissue data for West Virginia streams indicate that mercury has accumulated in some fish.
Limited data indicate that mercury has accumulated in some fish.
There is no known health risk related to mercury from activities such as swimming, boating, or catch and release fishing in these waters. While mercury levels may be high in fish, the concentrations in stream or lakes typically ranges as much as 100,000 times lower than in fish. Handling fish will not likely expose individuals to elevated levels of mercury. Advisories of some type are in place in Ohio, Kentucky, and Virginia. You should discuss any health concerns with your health care provider.