Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention
Lead poisoning usually happens when children breathe dust that has lead in it, or put things in their mouth (chips of paint from older homes, painted items, soil or water) that have lead in it.
There are many ways children are exposed to lead in the environment; these can often be found in household items, children's toys, jewelry, and other items marketed to and for children. No amount of lead is safe for the body.
Below are links to resources from the CT Department of Public Health to keep you informed about lead and lead poisoning prevention.
Proteja a su hijo del envenenamiento con plomo
Lead Poisoning Prevention and Control Program
Does your child need to be tested for lead poisoning?
Yes, in Connecticut, Medical Providers are required to provide lead testing at least annually for each child nine to thirty-five months of age. It’s the law! If your child is under six years of age and has not previously been tested, a blood test is also required. If your child is at risk of lead poisoning at other ages, have your child tested at those times too. Blood tests will reveal the amount of lead in your child's blood at the time of the test. If the level is high, your child will need additional testing.
Safe Renovations for Older Homes The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides information on legal requirements for safe lead practices for homeowners, tenants, childcare providers and parents during renovation activities with their downloadable guide:
The Lead-Safe Certified Guide to Renovate Right
Lead in Drinking Water Sometimes older homes or apartments can have lead in the drinking water as a result of corrosion of materials in household water pipes or pipe connections. When water stands in lead pipes or plumbing systems that contain leaded materials for several hours, the lead may dissolve into the drinking water. This means the first water drawn from the tap after sitting for hours could contain elevated levels of lead.
Read more here: EPA links to lead in drinking water
If you have questions about childhood lead testing, talk to your child's pediatrician or call the Eastern Highlands Health District office at 860-429-3325.