Incidents involving religious practices Persons who use metallic mercury in ethnic folk medicine and for religious practices are at risk. The use of azogue in religious practices is recommended in some Hispanic communities by family members, spiritualists, card readers, and santeros. Typically, azogue is carried on one's person in a sealed pouch prepared by a spiritual leader or sprinkled in the home or automobile. Some botanica owners suggest mixing it in bath water or perfume and placing it in devotional candles. General facts The following are general facts about metallic mercury and its risks, as well as information about how people can protect themselves from exposure and resulting health effects.
Mercury occurs naturally in the environment in several forms.
Metallic Mercury is the liquid form used in thermometers. Mercury is also used in other common consumer products such as fluorescent light bulbs, barometers, medical equipment such as blood pressure measurement instruments, and mercury switches in children's sneakers that light up. This alert concentrates on metallic mercury, but hazards are also associated with other types. Of these, the most common is methyl mercury contamination of fish. In the previously described school-associated cases, children were unaware of the dangers involved in exposing themselves and their families to this deadly poison.