Families in New Glarus and across Green County are being reminded to have children tested for lead at age 1 and again at age 2, as local public health officials warn that exposure can occur without obvious signs.
Green County Public Health and the Southwest 7 Environmental Health Partnership issued the reminder Sunday as part of an ongoing effort to reduce childhood lead exposure. Wisconsin health officials say there is no safe level of lead in a child’s blood, and even small amounts can affect brain development and other aspects of a child’s health.
Deteriorating lead-based paint in homes built before 1978 remains the most common source of childhood lead poisoning, according to the release. Cracking, peeling or friction from painted surfaces such as windows can create lead dust that settles on floors, toys and other surfaces children touch.
Other possible sources include contaminated soil, water pipes and some imported toys, ceramics or cosmetics. Because lead is invisible and odorless, Green County Public Health says a blood test is the best way to determine whether a child has been exposed.
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