MINAMATA DISEASE: A REVIEW

Humans that consume fish or shellfish polluted with Methylmercury (MeHg) from chemical plant discharges are susceptible to the poisoning known as Minamata disease (Chisso Co. Ltd.). It was found in May 1956 in Minamata City, on Kyushu Island in southwest Japan. Minamata Bay's marine products showed elevated mercury pollution levels (5.61 to 35.7 ppm). High concentrations of mercury (maximum 705 ppm) were found in the hair of patients, their relatives, and locals living around the Shiranui Sea coast. The following are typical signs of Minamata disease: ataxia, dysarthria, narrowing of the visual field, auditory problems, tremor, and sensory disturbances (glove and stocking type).