Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Believe it or not, most children with lead poisoning do not look sick. The only way to know for sure is to have them tested. It is important to prevent and treat lead poisoning because it can do permanent harm. It can cause brain damage, hearing and speaking problems, learning problems and lower I.Q. It can cause behavior problems, shortened attention span and hyperactivity. Lead poisoning can even cause death. Your child's doctor, family health center, or a clinic can do a simple blood test. You can get the results in about two weeks.  You may take the lead questionnaire to see if your children are at risk.

If your child does have lead poisoning, it is most likely that they are getting the lead where they spend the most time. At home? At grandma's? At the sitter's? Where ever it is, clean, clean, clean. Use warm water and an automatic dish washing powder that has phosphates in it (like Cascade). Wet mop floors, furniture and window sills every week.  Keep children away from peeling paint and window sills. Fix healthy meals high in iron and calcium. Cook liver, beef or lean meats, spinach, greens, dried beans and vegetables. Serve raisins, peanuts, cheese, yogurt or ice cream for snacks or dessert. Top them off with milk or real fruit juices to drink.  Wash children's hands, pacifiers and toys often.

Lead poisoning can be prevented and treated. Call (810) 257-3833 for more information, or to learn how to get your home tested for lead.