In 1982, the US Mint began minting pennies coated in copper but made primarily of zinc. With the new zinc pennies, there is the potential for zinc toxicosis, which can be fatal. One reported case of chronic ingestion of 425 pennies (over 1 kg of zinc) resulted in death due to gastrointestinal bacterial and fungal sepsis, whereas another patient, who ingested 12 grams of zinc, only showed lethargy and ataxia (gross lack of coordination of muscle movements). Several other cases have been reported of humans suffering zinc intoxication by the ingestion of zinc coins. COUNT 4
QSN1 What coin, as of 1982, is now primarily made of zinc? ANS1 pennies QSN2 What is a concern with the new zinc pennies? ANS2 zinc toxicosis QSN3 Ingesting zinc can cause lack of muscle movement and coordination called what? ANS3 ataxia QSN4 Why have people reported zinc intoxication? ANS4 ingestion of zinc coins