Posted on Monday May 23, 2022
Recently an
environmental lead inspection conducted at Lawsonville Head Start revealed the
presence of lead hazards in areas accessible to children attending the facility. The lead hazards found were primarily on the
exterior of the facility. The
Rockingham County Division of Public Health has made recommendations to
Rockingham County Schools regarding the protection of the children from
exposure.
The primary
route of lead poisoning for children that are six and under is through the
ingestion of lead contaminated dust, which occurs by hand to mouth activity. Rockingham County School’s administration was
notified of the lead hazards identified and have implemented measures to
minimize student exposure and access to areas where the lead hazards were
found. At this time, no child has been
identified with unacceptable blood lead levels.
Excessive lead
levels may cause learning difficulties, behavioral problems, and other adverse
health consequences. If you suspect your
child/children have been exposed to lead hazards, the Rockingham County
Department of Health and Human Services recommends that your child/children
schedule an appointment to be tested to determine his/her blood lead
level. If tested at the Rockingham
County Division of Public Health, there will be no cost to the parents. To schedule an appointment, please call 336-342-8141.
If additional
information is needed, contact Jennifer Fain, RN, BSN, Public Health Lead Nurse
at 336-342-8160 or Meg McGuire, REHS, Environmental Health Programs Coordinator
at 336-342-8271.