Are there lead hazards other than paint, water, and contaminated soil that can cause lead poisoning?
Yes. Older toys, painted furniture, pottery from other countries, and some non-glossy vinyl miniblinds have all been identified as common sources of lead that have caused lead poisoning. To prevent lead poisoning from these sources you should throw out old crayons and non-glossy vinyl miniblinds made in China, Taiwan, Mexico, or Indonesia (unless these mini-blinds have been recently purchased and certified as lead-free); do not cook or serve food on pottery from other countries unless it is certified as being lead-free; and keep furniture with old paint away from young children. How can I tell if my child is lead poisoned? A blood test is the only way to tell for sure that a child has high levels of lead in his or her body. All children between the ages of 6 months and six years should have their blood lead level screened. Your health care provider can give you more information on how to have your child screened for lead poisoning. For more information on the health effects of lead poi