Jackson, Mich. — The Jackson County Health Department is offering two free separate blood lead clinics in an effort to assist parents in having their children tested for blood lead. An appointment is necessary and results will be provided to the parent/guardian before leaving, as well as a referral for confirmatory testing if needed. These tests can only provide information on recent or chronic exposure.

Clinic dates and times are as follows.

Wednesday, August 3rd, from 10:15 am – 6:00 pm

Wednesday, August 10th, from 8:30 am – 4:00 pm

No appointments will be scheduled between 12 Noon – 1:00 pm.

The Jackson County Health Department says lead poisoning is a serious problem for infants and children under the age of six as it could affect them for the rest of their lives, such as learning problems, hearing or vision problems, coordination and fine motor skill problems, poor muscle and bone growth, and hyperactivity.

If elevated lead is detected, assistance can be provided such as nutrition education, proper cleaning techniques, and applying to the state of Michigan for a home inspection for those who qualify.

“In our community, we need to continue to identify and eliminate the possible environmental routes of lead exposure through housing, water, and soil. Our primary route of exposure continues to be lead-based paint dust and chips in our housing”, stated Kristin Pluta, Health Officer.

Those interested in having their home tested for lead can visit michigan.gov/mileadsafe or call Rhonda Rudolph, Lead Outreach Health Educator at (517) 768-2131 for more information.