(MILWAUKEE) — Milwaukee Public Schools will have three lead-screening clinics for its students and other children in the community on Tuesday, September 16; Wednesday, September 17; and Thursday, September 18.
The free clinics, in partnership with health care provider Novir, will be at the following MPS schools:
Fifty-Third Street School, 3618 N. 53rd St. The community screening will be from 2 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday.
Morgandale School, 3635 S. 17th St. The community screening will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday.
Elm Creative Arts School, 900 W. Walnut St. The community screening will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday.
The schools were selected based on location and convenience to families and not because of any lead risk to children at those schools. Families at the schools have already been notified of clinic times for the schools’ students.
The Milwaukee Health Department recommends that all elementary-age students be tested for lead.
For a child to be screened, parents or guardians first must provide their consent. Consent forms will be available at all clinics for the community.
Lead screening is done through a finger prick. A health care provider collects a few drops of blood to be used for the test. Test results will be ready in minutes and shared with families.
The screening will show whether children have elevated levels of lead in their bloodstream. These tests will indicate whether a child’s lead exposure falls within acceptable ranges or whether further monitoring or treatment is needed.
Appointments are not necessary for the screenings. Families may visit the location most convenient for them during community hours and simply walk in.
