Many homes in Virginia contain lead hazards that can pose serious health risk, especially for young children.
While lead was banned from household paints and water pipes decades ago, the risk of exposure remains.
“Lead can have severe and lasting effects on a child’s health and development,” said Ashley Koski, MPH, childhood lead poisoning prevention program coordinator with the Virginia Department of Health.
“It is often invisible, and symptoms of lead exposure aren’t always obvious. Therefore, many families do not realize they have been exposed until they have been tested.”
Lead can be difficult to detect, according to VDH. Even small amounts of lead can affect a child’s learning, behavior and physical development.
Koski recommends that families with young children ask their healthcare provider about a lead test.
VDH: Detecting lead in your home
The VDH has launched a public education campaign featuring a new mascot, an alligator named Chip, to help families recognize and reduce lead barriers in their homes.
Old paint chips are one of the most common sources of lead exposure because lead can flake into dust, settle on surfaces and be breathed or swallowed. Lead is found primarily in homes built before 1978.
- Lead-based paint often has a scaly texture, resembling, wait for it, alligator skin
- Chipped, peeling paint can turn into paint chips or dust, creating dangerous conditions
- Commonly found on porches, stair railings, windowsills and doors
- Lead may also be found in soil, aging plumbing and some imported toys and jewelry
- Intact lead-based paint that is in good condition generally does not pose an immediate risk, but it can become dangerous if it deteriorates or is disturbed.
VDH: How to reduce your risk
Simple ways to reduce the risk of exposure include:
- Regularly clean floors and surfaces using wet methods
- Wash children’s hands, toys, and bottles often
- Prevent children from playing in bare soil
- Remove shoes before entering the home
- Prepare nutritious meals high in calcium, iron and vitamin C
- Use cold tap water for cooking and drinking
- Keep paint intact and undisturbed
PSA: Lead poisoning prevention
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Crystal Graham
