tl tr
Public Health Minimize
bl br
Public Health Menu
Top

Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP)

Promoting a healthy, lead-safe environment
where all children can achieve their full potential

Lead exposure can affect nearly every system in the body, and often occurs with no obvious symptoms. CLPPP provides services to the community to reduce lead exposure by increasing awareness around lead exposure hazards and increasing the number of children tested for lead poisoning.

Lead in its natural form

Lead Poisoning

There is no safe level of lead and even small amounts in a child’s body can cause learning and behavior problems. High amounts of lead can damage the nervous system, kidneys, and other major organs. Children under six years old and unborn babies are at greatest risk of harmful effects from lead poisoning. Most children who have lead poisoning do not look or act sick. The only way to know for sure is to have a blood test. Blood lead testing is a benefit of Medi-Cal, CHDP well-child exam, and most other health insurance. Ask your doctor if your child has not been tested. All children should be tested at 12 and 24 months old.

CLPPP Services by Public Health Nurse or Environmental Health Specialist include:

  • Home visits to children with high blood lead levels. Environmental home inspections can identify possible sources of lead in the home and test items such as paint, soil, and food products.
  • Nurses provide case management, health education, lead level monitoring, and encourage medical follow-up as needed.
  • Assist medical providers to manage lead poisoning in their patients.
  • Follow-ups with homeowners as needed to ensure elimination of lead sources in the home and the surrounding area.
  • Provide recommendations to families to reduce contact with lead.

More Information for Parents and Caregivers

Young children are at the highest risk for lead poisoning because they play and crawl inside, outside, and often put hands and toys in their mouths. Buildings built before 1978, soil, dust, and certain household and foods items may be a source of lead to your child. If you are pregnant, your unborn baby could be harmed by lead.


10 Tips for a Lead-Safe Family: English   Spanish  

Common Sources of Lead Poisoning ()

To get more information to help prevent lead poisoning, click on the links below:

 

 

Information for Medical Providers ()

Lead Hazard Reduction Information ()

Other Resources ()

Chapulines (pictured above) are a popular delicacy imported from Mexico, which may contain high levels of lead.
Announcements

Recall Notice: U.P. Fashion Children’s Rings

Information

Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program


Post Office Box 962
Santa Cruz, CA 95061

General Information:  
Call (831) 763-8412

Click here to send an email to CLPPP

To Report
Elevated Blood Lead Levels:

Call (831) 763-8415 or 
FAX to (831) 763-8410

Weekend/Holiday Emergency Reporting:
(831) 471-1170