Courtesy of: Anne Hall, RN BSN completion student University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire The Most Common Sources of Lead in WI

Lead poisoning is the most serious environmental health threat facing young children in the U.S.  It can change the way your brain and body grows:  Causing lower IQ  Learning difficulties  Behavior problems like aggression and hyperactivity  Poor muscle coordination  Hearing damage  Lead is most harmful to children under 6 years old

Source: WCLPPP Surveillance Data

 Old homes with chipped & peeling built before 1978  Lead-based paint  Chipped paint  Paint dust

The size of one sugar packet, if it contained lead dust, could contaminate a 2-3 bedroom home (1500 sq. ft.) and…Poison a Child! Source:

 Finger poke blood testing for children at age 1 and 2 and ages 3-5 (if not previously tested)  Blood draw at your doctors office  If child has high level, siblings will be tested  Nurses can visit your home to investigate where the lead is coming from

How can you prevent lead poisoning?  Diet high in calcium and iron; low in fatty foods  Wash hands often  Remove shoes before entering home  Keep play areas clean

Pierce County Public Health 412 W. Kinne St. P.O. Box 238 Ellsworth, WI (715)