Ciência e Tecnologia Veterinária

Mercury Contamination of Fish, Cattle and its Public Health Impacts: A Review

Abstract

Hordofa Noto

Mercury is a toxic element and its type, dose and rate of exposure determines the level of toxicity. Bacteria can transform mercury into methylmercury, a highly toxic form of mercury. Contamination of water, soil, foods, and environment by mercury is matter for both animals and humans. Contaminated fodder and water with mercury is the main source of mercury in animal products. Humans acquire the mercury poison mainly through intake of fish and animal source foods contaminated with mercury. Animals poisoned by mercury exhibits abnormalities of central nervous system, coordination of movement and visual aberration. Generally, accumulation of mercury not only has pernicious effect on the cattle but also on the population who is consuming contaminated milk and meat with mercury.