An outbreak of organomercury poisoning among Iraqi farmers

An outbreak of organomercury poisoning due to the consumption of treated grain by farmers and their families occurred in Iraq in 1971-72. A total of 6530 cases were admitted to hospital and of these 459 died. However, there were many more with minor symptoms of poisoning who consulted outpatient departments. This outbreak constituted the largest poisoning epidemic ever recorded. No age was exempt and no pronounced sex difference was apparent. The latent period of up to 60 days between dosage and the onset of symptoms was probably the major factor contributing to the size of the epidemic. Measures taken to limit the outbreak are outlined.