 |
|
|
September 23, 2003 Contact: Bonnie Widerburg (503) 731-4180 Technical contact: Richard Leiker (503) 731-4025 Oregon lead poisoning case leads to national recall Last month’s investigation into a case of lead poisoning in a Deschutes County child has prompted a national recall, according to public health officials in the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS). "The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a voluntary national recall of more than 1.4 million metal toy necklaces that contain a high percentage of lead," said Michael Heumann, epidemiologist in DHS. "And, even though a recall is underway, we want parents to know that some vending machines in Oregon may still contain these medallions." The child was hospitalized in August with lead poisoning, a result of swallowing a lead medallion from a necklace purchased in a toy vending machine. Following treatment, the child’s blood lead level is going down, according to Heumann. DHS obtained medallions similar to the one the child swallowed from vending machines in various parts of the state. Laboratory analyses of two of these medallions were found to be 37 percent and 44 percent lead. The medallion the child swallowed was 39 percent lead. The medallions are round, approximately 7/8 inch in diameter, metal, gray in color, with a symbol on one side. The CPSC recall announcement and photos of several versions of the medallions are on the Web. Heumann said the medallions pose several risks: Children can potentially swallow one of the small medallions, presenting both a physical hazard and lead exposure hazard; and they can be also exposed to lead by putting the medallion in their mouths or by handling the medallion and then putting their hands in their mouths. "Parents should also check their child’s toys at home for these items," said Heumann. "If you find one of these medallions, discard it in the household trash and thoroughly wash your hands after handling." As a general rule, parents should check the safety of any toy their child purchases from a vending machine, Heumann added. Lead can harm anyone who swallows lead-containing products or breathes lead dust, and even small amounts can be harmful. It is especially dangerous to children because it can slow growth and development. Exposure to lead paint dust from older homes is the most common cause of lead poisoning, but lead or materials containing lead may be found in other products, according to Heumann. The Oregon Leadline at (800) 368-5060 is a free telephone information service for parents and others who are concerned about lead hazards in their home and want to know how to make their home lead-safe. |
|
