Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD) is continuing to take steps towards ensuring the safety and well-being of children in the community by offering free lead testing services specifically for in-home childcare. Free testing is provided by a grant awarded to PPHD from the National Center for Healthy Housing. This test is a $250 value, including the lab analysis and report write-up.
Lead poisoning poses a serious threat to children’s health and development, and in-home childcares can be at increased risk due to various environmental factors. Recognizing the importance of early detection and intervention, PPHD is committed to providing accessible testing services to safeguard the health of the youngest community members. These tests aim to identify and address potential lead hazards promptly, mitigating the risk of childhood lead poisoning. Children under 6 years of age are at the biggest risk. Children living in Nebraska, along with Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri, have some of the highest rates of elevated blood lead levels in the nation.
Lead is a toxic metal that can damage several parts of the body, including the brain and nervous system. Too much lead in the body can cause developmental, behavioral, and health problems in children. Even low levels of lead have been shown to affect a child’s school performance, ability to pay attention, and IQ. Lead exposures can occur if children swallow or breathe lead or lead dust. Contact with lead commonly comes from paint chips and dust from lead paint in older homes. There is also exposure from contaminated soil, certain jobs or hobbies, and some water pipes. Some products can contain lead, including imported food and spices, cookware, traditional medicines, toys, and jewelry.
Testing for lead includes testing paint, toys, and soil. Paint testing is damage-free, and results are instant. If any fixtures or items are identified, PPHD will work with the childcares on how to clean or replace items if necessary. Educational materials are available and can also be provided.
To schedule a time to test your in-home childcare for lead, please contact Melissa Haas at 308-487-3600 ext. 108 or Kendra Lauruhn at 308-633-2866 ext. 206.
Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.ne.gov.