Mercury Poisoning Linked to Use of Skin-lightening or Acne Creams From Mexico
Date: May 20, 2014
The attached health alert from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) informs providers about recent cases of mercury poisoning linked to the use of skin-lightening or acne creams from Mexico.
The CDPH alert recommends that clinicians consider mercury poisoning when working up patients with suggestive signs and symptoms. Flyers in English and Spanish are also attached to assist in educating patients about this potential health risk.
Local providers can contact the California Poison Control Center at any time of day, seven days a week, at 1 (800) 222-1222 for support in the evaluation, treatment, or referral of any patient with possible mercury poisoning.
Mercury poisoning is not specified as a reportable disease in California; however, clinicians are requested to report any confirmed case as an “unusual illness” to the Epidemiology Program by faxing a Confidential Morbidity Report to (858) 715-6458 or by calling (619) 692-8499 (Monday–Friday, 8:00am–5:00pm) or (858) 565-5255 (after hours).
Thank you for your continued participation.
CAHAN San Diego
County of San Diego, Health & Human Services Agency
Epidemiology and Immunization Services Branch
Phone: (619) 692-8499 • Fax: (858) 715-6458
Urgent Phone for PM / Weekends / Holidays: (858) 565-5255
Email: cahan@sdcounty.ca.gov
Secure Website: http://cahan.ca.gov
Public-access Website: http://www.cahansandiego.com
Attachments:
- CDPH Health Alert “Mercury Poisoning Linked to Use of Skin-lightening or Acne Creams From Mexico” — dated May 7, 2014
- CDPH Patient Flyers in English and Spanish “Mercury in Skin Creams from Mexico Can Make You or Your Child Sick” — April 2014
CAHAN San Diego Alerts are intended for the use of public health, medical and laboratory professionals in San Diego County. This alert has been approved for reproduction and distribution to interested professionals. An online CAHAN San Diego application is available at http://www.cahansandiego.com for appropriate and interested individuals.