A chemical incident, involving the release into the environment of large quantities of mercury and cyanide, occurred in Khongor Soum, Mongolia, in April 2007. This incident has raised serious concern among the local population regarding the potential health effects which might result from this environmental contamination. Initial investigations conducted by the World Health Organization, joint UNEP/OCHA environment unit, and the Mongolian authorities highlighted the need to conduct a health risk assessment for the population at risk. Upon request of the Mongolian Government, a Joint UN mission consisting of international experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) took place from 26 February to 15 March to assess the situation with regards to human health, food and animal health, and the environment with particular focus on mercury and cyanide. This preliminary report presents the preliminary findings and recommendations of the activities undertaken by WHO.
