Lead
Lead poisoning is one of the greatest health risks that children face. Ingestion of even very small amounts of lead can cause a variety of severe and irreversible health problems, including decreased muscle and bone growth, speech and language problems, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder, and decreased intelligence. Children under the age of 7 are especially at risk because their brains are still developing.
Lead was used in both interior and exterior paint until 1978. Seventy percent of the housing in St. Joseph County was built before 1978, which puts residents at high risk for lead-based paint hazards. Children can be exposed to lead-based paint that is chipping and cracking or lead-based paint dust. Areas of concern around the home that children may chew or that get a lot of wear and tear include windows, window sills, doors, door frames, stairs, railings, banisters, and porches.
- Testing for Lead Poisoning (Finger Stick)
The Department of Health provides lead screening to any resident of St. Joseph County under the age of 7. The test consists of a small finger prick to collect a blood sample. Test can be provided for no cost. Insurance preferred but not required.
Health Care providers must report elevated lead levels to the Department of Health by faxing a completed reporting form to (574) 245-6581.
- Lead Home Risk Assessments
The St. Joseph County Department of Health conducts free lead risk assessments in the following home environments:
- Children under the age of 7 live, or visit frequently
- Pregnant women reside
- A lead-poisoned child has already been identified
To schedule a lead home risk assessment or to get more information about lead poisoning, contact the Department of Health at (574) 235-9722 or (574) 235-9750, Extension 7923.
- For Families with Young Children
- 5 Things you can do to help lower your child's lead level (English / Spanish)
- Lead Safe Cleaning (English / Spanish)
- Fight Lead Poisoning: Cook Book (English / Spanish)
- Lead Safe Rack Card
- Need assistance? Community Health Worker Resources
- Additional Resources Surrounding Lead
- For the Do-it-Yourselfer
Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program: Do-It-Yourselfers
Although the Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule does not apply to homeowners renovating, repairing, or painting their own homes, do-it-yourself projects can easily create dangerous lead dust. Protect your family and home – set up safely, control the dust, and clean up completely.
Follow these safeguards to prevent lead dust from spreading throughout your home:
- Lead Poisoning Prevention Programs
Lead Free By 3
Preparental Program
Home Risk Assessments
Lead Poisoning Prevention Testing Community Health workers