All children should be tested at 12 months and at 24 months for lead poisoning, especially if your children live in a home that was built before 1960. If your child spends at least 10 hours each week in an area that has lead paint, they may need more frequent lead testing. One out of every three children in Cerro Gordo County is at risk for developing learning disabilities, metal retardation or even death because of lead poisoning.
Lead poisoning can cause permanent damage to the brain or other organs.
Often, there are no symptoms of blood lead poisoning until permanent damage is done. The only way to detect lead poisoning is through a blood test. The Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health provides free lead tests for children from birth to 6 years of age. Our Childhood Lead Poisoning Case Management program currently covers an 13 county area, utilizing the expertise of Public Health Nurses and Environmental Specialists. The nurse can provide a link between the family and the community.