In homes, organic mercury can be found in latex paints, and metallic mercury is sometimes used in religious rituals. People can be exposed by breathing mercury vapors. This type of exposure can happen in the workplace, or in homes where mercury is spilled. People who use exterior latex paints that contain mercury in unventilated areas may be exposed and could become seriously ill. Some dental fillings contain mercury and blood levels may be elevated for a short time after teeth are filled.
Mercury can enter the body when contaminated water is used for drinking or for preparing food.
If a water supply is contaminated, people can absorb mercury as they bathe or use the water for other purposes. We suggest you stop drinking water containing more than 2 ppb of mercury. If levels of mercury are very high in your water, you may need to avoid washing, bathing, or using the water for other purposes. Contact your local public health agency for more information specific to your situation. No standards exist for the amount of mercury allowed in the air of homes.