The CLPPP monitors the status of lead levels for children in Del Norte County and conducts outreach and education about the effects of lead and how to prevent exposure to lead. When necessary, nurses also provide case management in the event of a lead poisoned child.

Worried about lead in your home? Use this checklist to see your risk!

Why Is Lead Dangerous?

• Lead can harm a child's brain. Lead poisoning can make it hard for a child to learn, pay attention, and behave.
• If you are pregnant, lead can hurt your baby. Ask your doctor about a lead test.

How Do Children Get Exposed to Lead?

• Children under 6 exhibit a lot of hand to mouth contact.
• Children put an item in their mouth that contains lead or has lead dust on it, such as hands, toys or food.
• Children can breathe in lead dust.

When Should Children Get Tested for Lead?

• Most children who have lead poisoning do not look or act sick.
• The only way to know if your child has lead poisoning is for your child to get a blood test.
• Children in California on a publicly funded program such as CHDP, Medi-Cal, and WIC are tested for lead at 12 and 24 months of age. Some children over age 2 also need to get tested.

Does a Healthy Diet Help?

• Provide regular meals and snacks. A poor diet or an empty stomach can encourage absorption of lead.
• Vitamin C rich foods- oranges, tomatoes, limes, bell peppers, berries, papaya, jicama or broccoli
• Iron-rich foods- beef, chicken, turkey, eggs, cooked dried beans, fortified cereals, tofu, collards, kale and mustard greens
• Calcium-rich foods- low-fat milk, yogurt, cheese, calcium-fortified juices and cereals and dark leafy greens