INDIANAPOLIS — Dozens of schools in Indianapolis have tested positive for lead-pollution in their water, according to the Kheprw Institute.
Although there is not a known safe level of lead in young children, lead poisoning can cause brain and nervous system damage.
To ensure Indianapolis kids are not at risk, the local NAACP branch, the City of Indianapolis and The Marion County Public Health Department have unveiled a lead testing initiative.
The initiative will offer free testing to students in kindergarten and first grade at the mayor's charter schools, Indianapolis Pubic Schools and Pike Township.
"This lead poisoning causes damage to the brain and the nervous system," Dr. Virginia Caine, Director of the Marion County Public Health Department, said. "So that's why you see young kids will have a developmental delay. They will have learning and behavioral problems; they may complain of abdominal pain."
If you have a kindergarten or first grader at Pike, IPS or a mayor's charter school, you will be given a consent form to fill out. If you agree to lead testing, the health department will give your child a finger prick test.
If your child tests positive for lead, the health department will inspect your home and other places to find the source of the lead and will get your child treatment.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, millions of children are exposed to lead in their homes.
