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Learning about lead poisoning
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March 4, 2010
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 The Rio Dell Play Group, a Humboldt First Five program coordinated by the St. Joseph Health System – Humboldt County Rio Dell Community Resource Center, recently enjoyed a visit from the Department of Health and Human Services - Public Health Branch Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.
The group of 11 children and six adults from the Rio Dell Play Group were present for the discussion with health education specialist Jessica Golden regarding the growing concern of lead poisoning among our youngest community members.
Lead poisoning in children can occur a number of ways, including by contact with lead-based paint which can be found in a variety of household items, especially paint in homes built prior to 1978. Lead can also be found in consumer products like some imported toys, candies, old and handmade dishes, and certain home remedies.
Children may not show any signs of lead poisoning at all and that’s why it’s important to get a blood test. For adults, our bodies can filter the heavy metal better than children. Lead interferes with the development of the nervous system and is therefore particularly toxic to children. Lead poisoning can have long-term effects on children’s ability to learn, hear, and grow to their full potential.
For more information about preventing childhood lead poisoning, call the local Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program at 441-5564 or visit: http://co.humboldt.ca.us/HHS/PHB/ChildhoodLeadPoisoningPreventionProgram.asp
The Rio Dell Play Group is a free program for parents of children up to five years old. The group meets every Friday from 10 a.m. to noon at 95 Center Street in Rio Dell. For more information about the group, call 764-5239.
Caption: Children with Group learn about the harmful effects of lead poisoning from Jessica Golden, health education specialist with the Humboldt County Public Health Branch Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.
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