The Schuyler County Legislature has designated October 25^th through October 31^st as Lead Poisoning Prevention Week in the county. This aligns with the National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, an annual observance to raise awareness of the dangers of lead poisoning and encourage parents and guardians to make sure their child is tested for lead poisoning at ages one and two. As part of this observance, Schuyler County Public Health is providing outreach and education to the community on how to keep children safe from lead.

“Lead poisoning is very dangerous, especially for young kids,” warned Deputy Public Health Director Lorelei Wagner. “Not only are they more likely to put things that may have lead dust on them in their mouths, but their growing bodies also absorb more lead than adults.”

Schuyler County Public Health shared the following facts about lead poisoning:

• Lead is a toxic metal used to make certain products and materials. Common places lead can be found include old paint, soil, water pipes, and some toys and jewelry.
• Lead often enters children’s bodies when they put their hands, toys, or other items covered with lead dust into their mouths.
• No amount of lead exposure is safe, and most children will not show symptoms if they’ve been exposed.
• Lead poisoning can cause brain damage, slow growth and development, lead to learning and behavior problems, and more.

“It is very important that parents and guardians have their child tested for lead at ages one and two” Wagner continued. “If lead poisoning is caught early, the source of the lead poisoning can be identified and removed, and kids can get treatment if they need it.”

While the effects of lead poisoning are permanent, lead exposure can be found through early testing before long-term damage sets in. Learn more about lead poisoning and tips to prevent it by visiting www.SchuylerCountyNY.gov/lead.

Schuyler County Public Health's mission is to protect and empower the community to be safe, healthy and prepared. Schuyler County Public Health’s vision is a connected community of healthy people and safe places.

For more information, visit Schuyler County Public Health online at www.schuylercounty.us/publichealth or follow Schuyler County Public Health on Facebook and Instagram.