Updated 2/7/06

   700 East Oak Street  Canton  Illinois  61520
   Phone: 309-647-1134   Fax: 309-647-9545

Lead Poisoning is most commonly found in children 1 to 6 years of age.

Lead Poisoning in children can be caused by eating or chewing lead based paint. It also can ingested from  contaminated soil or air

Lead poisoning is a serious sickness that can cause permanent brain damage,  blindness, muscle weakness and even death.

Symptoms of lead poisoning are not always visible.

It is important to detect lead poisoning early. The only sure way to do this is to HAVE THE CHILD TESTED . A lead test is a simple finger stick, in which a few drops of blood are collected and sent to a laboratory to be analyzed. It is quick and easy. To make an appointment call 647-1134 ext. 254.

Clinics are held the 1st & 3rd Wednesdays of the month in Canton and the 2nd Wednesday of the month in Astoria. There is a fee based upon income for this service.

 FACT:  LEAD IS FOUND IN THE ENVIRONMENT!

Dust from peeling and flaking paint, plaster walls, windowsills, door trim, or ceilings is the major source of lead exposure in children.

Lead was used as a coloring agent in paint. Homes built prior to 1978 may contain lead based paint. It may be found in older homes, especially those in deteriotating conditions or undergoing renovations.

Harmful amounts of lead can sometimes be found in:
1 - newsprint
2 - putty
3 - dust and soil
4 - soft metal objects
5 - toys
6 - magazines and comic books
     (especially yellow and orange inks)

7 - Plumbing (lead pipes and solder used on copper pipes)

Danger from lead-based paint can be temporarily isolated on an emergency basis by covering cracked or chewable surfaces with contact paper, cloth, canvas or a like substance to prevent plaster and paint chips from falling.

Do not attempt to remove lead based paint on your own. Health hazards for adults and children exist from improper removal and disposal of lead from a home. You should first consult your local health department and a licensed professional lead abatement contractor.

For more information on lead-based paint removal contact contact the Fulton County Health Department or The Illinois Department of Public Health at (309) 693-5360; TTY @ 800-547-0466