Take these steps to prevent exposure to your family. Clean areas with lead dust or deteriorating paint with a wet cloth or a wet mop. Wash toys, windows, play areas, floors, and remove shoes before entering the home so lead is not carried in from outdoors. Practice good hand hygiene before meals, after playing outside, and before bed. For more information contact Chenango County Department of Health at 607-337-1660.

CHENANGO COUNTY - October is recognized as National Lead Poisoning Month to raise awareness about the dangers of lead poisoning and the importance of prevention, especially for young children. Although preventable, lead poisoning remains a serious public health issue.

Lead is a soft, pliable, and inexpensive metal that was once a popular choice for use in products like paint, plumbing, gas, ammunition, batteries, and printing presses. It was used for many years due to its durability, quick drying time, and thick consistency. Unfortunately, it wasn’t until the late 20th century that the use of lead was banned because of health hazards and widespread contamination.

Today, lead can be found in older homes (especially those built before 1978), contaminated soil, household dust, drinking water from lead pipes, and even certain toys or imported goods. Young children are at the greatest risk because of their hand-to-mouth behaviors and because their bodies absorb lead more easily than adults. This period is especially critical because a child’s brain is still developing. Lead exposure at a young age can cause lasting damage. Even low levels of lead in blood can affect a child’s growth, development, learning, and behavior.

New York State requires children to be tested for lead at ages 1 and 2, and children up to 6 years of age are assessed for exposure to lead at every well-child visit. These laws are part of New York’s Public Health Law and Department of Health Guidelines, which are aimed at detecting and preventing childhood lead poisoning early. Besides testing, families can take preventive steps at home.

Take these steps to prevent exposure to your family. Clean areas with lead dust or deteriorating paint with a wet cloth or a wet mop. Wash toys, windows, play areas, floors, and remove shoes before entering the home so lead is not carried in from outdoors. Practice good hand hygiene before meals, after playing outside, and before bed. For more information contact Chenango County Department of Health at 607-337-1660.

Resources and for more information: www.health.ny.gov/environmental/lead/; https://www.cdc.gov/lead-prevention/success-stories-by-state/?; CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/programs/default.htm; https://newyork.public.law/laws/n.y._public_health_law_section_1370-d; https://www.epa.gov/lead.

Persons with questions or requiring additional information may contact the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

- Information from Chenango County Health Department