Milwaukee lead poisoning case, child 'likely' exposed at MPS school

MILWAUKEE - Milwaukee Public Schools and the Milwaukee Health Department said lead-based paint was found at a school after a student experienced lead poisoning last week.

Student lead exposure

What we know:

In a joint statement with MPS, the health department said its investigation discovered the source of the child's lead poisoning "likely originated" from lead-based paint found in a basement bathroom at the Golda Meir School Lower Campus, near Phillips and Galena. The school students in third grade through fifth grade.

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MPS said more than 85% of its facilities were built before 1980. The school district said it regularly addresses potential lead hazards by covering lead sources, applying protective barriers and removing lead-based materials as needed. 

"This is a very unusual case," said Kent Wentworth, MPS environmental health inspector. "We did not feel that there's an immediate health risk at all, because our primary concern is lead in dust, where it can transmit to the hands, and it can inadvertently get into a child's system."

What we don't know:

It is unclear exactly when the student became sick, what symptoms the student experienced, or what the student's current condition is as a result of the lead exposure.

What's next:

MPS and MHD said they are "working closely" with the family, school leaders and school district administrators to address the situation. The MPS Facilities and Maintenance Department is working with health officials to address needs related to the issue.

Lead poisoning risks

Dig deeper:

The Milwaukee Health Department said lead can be found in paint used in homes and buildings built before 1978. Chipped or peeled paint creates hazards. Lead dust from deteriorating paint can also contaminate soil.

Lead pipes or fixtures may contain lead hazards. Some imported toys, jewelry or ceramics may also contain lead. 

What you can do:

Health officials said wet dusting and mopping at home at least twice a week can minimize the risk of lead exposure. Children should wash their hands with soap and water, especially before meals and after play.

If you have or suspect you may have lead pipes, run faucets on cold for three minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. Residents should also cover or block lead hazards, like chipping paint, and keep children away from those areas.

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Diets rich in iron, calcium and vitamin C can help reduce lead absorption, the health department said. 

For questions related to lead exposure, MPS families can contact Health Services Manager Tashanda Edelen at 414-438-3539.

For additional resources and educational materials, as well as general information on how to keep your child and home lead-safe, visit the Milwaukee Health Department's website, or call the MHD Lead Program at 414-286-2165.