Dimethylmercury is an extremely toxic compound, and even small amounts can be lethal. The possibility of using dimethylmercury to poison a mass of people or a particular individual cannot be entirely ruled out, but there are several factors that make it highly unlikely and challenging:
Availability: Dimethylmercury is not readily available to the general public. It is a laboratory chemical, and its distribution and sale are tightly regulated due to its extreme toxicity.
Handling and Storage: Dimethylmercury is hazardous to handle and store safely. Even in laboratory settings, researchers must take extreme precautions when working with this substance, such as using specialized equipment and protective gear. This makes it difficult to obtain and use the chemical discreetly without drawing attention.
Detection: Due to its toxicity, even a small release of dimethylmercury can have severe consequences, and its effects can be noticed relatively quickly. Authorities and medical professionals are likely to detect and investigate a sudden spike in poisoning cases, raising alarms.
Rapid Degradation: Dimethylmercury can break down in the environment, limiting its persistence and making it challenging to use as a long-term poison without frequent reapplication.
Other Easier and More Accessible Poisons: While dimethylmercury is incredibly toxic, other poisonous substances are easier to obtain and handle without drawing as much attention. Unfortunately, there have been instances of individuals and groups using other toxic substances to cause harm.
Legal and Ethical Considerations: Deliberately poisoning people, whether on a mass scale or targeting an individual, is illegal and morally reprehensible. It goes against laws, human rights, and basic principles of ethical behavior.
In summary, while dimethylmercury is extremely toxic and potentially lethal, its rarity, difficulty of access, and challenges associated with handling and storage make it highly improbable that it would be used for poisoning purposes. Instead, authorities focus on preventing and addressing more common and feasible threats to public safety.