Lead Poisoning

Lead

What is it?

Lead poisoning occurs when you absorb too much lead by breathing or swallowing a substance with lead in it, such as paint, dust, water, or food. Lead can damage almost every organ in the body.

Percent of children (between 2018-2021) under 6 years old poisoned with blood lead levels of ≥5µg/dL in Lafayette County: 2.80% 
 
What can I do?

Lead poisoning is entirely preventable. The key is stopping children from coming into contact with lead and treating children who have been poisoned by lead.

The goal is to prevent lead exposure to children before they are harmed. There are many ways parents can reduce a child’s exposure to lead.  Lead hazards in a child’s environment must be identified and controlled or removed safely.

What can Lafayette County Health Department do for you?

  • The health department offers blood lead testing for children age 6 months to 5 years old.
  • We also conduct environmental assessment of homes where children with elevated lead levels live.
  • If you have any questions please call us at 608-776-4895.

 

For more information on lead, click the links below:

 

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