WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – It’s referred to as a “silent epidemic” and this week, health officials want to raise awareness about lead poisoning.
On Thursday, toys and other items were being tested for lead at Jefferson County Public Health.
Officials say kids are more prone to poisoning and tend to be symptom-free until lead levels are high.
In Jefferson County, about 75% of homes were built before lead paint was banned.
That’s why health officials say it’s important to get tested for lead poisoning and to make sure your home is lead-free.
“Lead really impacts children as they are developing. Once it gets into their bodies, it can cause developmental delays and different behavioral issues. Most of the kids with elevated blood lead levels- It comes from older housing stock, however, lead is still prevalent in some children’s toys that are imported from other countries,” said Jefferson County Public Health Specialist Cecilia Wirth.
Public Health officials say about 100 kids in Jefferson County are currently being treated for high lead levels.
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