News in brief: Lead testing for children

The Montclair Department of Health and Human Services, in partnership with the Hackensack UMC Mountainside Family Practice, announces a Lead Screening Program for children ages 1-6 years.

As lead exposure continues to be an ongoing health challenge, it is important that parents take precautionary measures to keep their children safe and healthy, the department writes. While exposure can damage a child’s learning and development, it can be prevented. The Montclair Health Department has partnered with Hackensack UMC Mountainside Family Practice to provide a Lead Screening Program for residents of Montclair, Cedar Grove, Nutley, and Verona.

Parents should ensure their child is tested for lead exposure at a pediatrician’s office at ages 1 and 2. The #kNOwLead campaign builds on the State’s leadership to address childhood lead exposure. New Jersey is one of only 17 states that require universal lead screening of all children at ages 1 and 2.

For children that have not been tested, or if it is possible that your child has exposed to lead, the following Lead Screening dates and locations are being provided:

• Monday, May 6 - Montclair Health Department, 205 Claremont Ave, Montclair, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.
• Monday, May 13 - Nutley Health Department, 149 Chestnut Street, Nutley, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.
• Monday, May 20 - Verona Community Center, 880 Bloomfield Ave., Verona, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.
• Monday, June 3 - Cedar Grove Municipal Building, 525 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.

For more information, and to make an appointment for your child’s screening, please call the Montclair Health Department at 973-509-4970.