Environmental Health Specialists perform lead poisoning investigations when a child under six years of age has an elevated blood lead level. Healthcare providers are asked to test all children under six years of age for high blood lead levels for early detection.
Lead poisoning in children can cause:
Coma or death (in very high levels)
Loss of Energy
Lead can be found in certain paints, water, soil, traditional medicines, old mini-blinds and certain hobbies and crafts materials.
Environmental Health Specialists investigate the environments of children with high blood levels to try to find the source of lead in the child's environment. When a source of lead is found, Environmental Health Specialists work with the parents or guardians to remove the source of the lead poisoning. Educational opportunities for the public are also available on lead risk and reduction.