After five reported cases of lead poisioning in Missouri children linked to an applesauce recall, the St. Louis County Department of Public Health is offering lead poisoning testing.
The recalled cinnamon applesauce products include:
- WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches – including 3-packs.
- Schnucks-brand cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches and variety pack.
- Weis-brand cinnamon applesauce pouches.
Officials say anyone who is concerned with exposure or consumption of these products to contact their personal care provider or the St. Louis County Department of Public Health for screening.
Walk-in lead screenings, which involve a blood draw, are available at all three DPH Health Centers from Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Lead screenings will be billed to insurance and for those who are uninsured, screenings will cost $29.
“Children are at high risk for lead poisoning since even small amounts of lead have been shown to negatively impact a child’s health and brain development. We want the community to be aware that the Department of Public Health offers lead screenings,” said County Executive Dr. Sam Page.
Lead poisoning occurs when someone ingests or inhales lead, which can quickly enter the bloodstream and build up throughout the body.
Short term exposure to high concentrations of lead can result in vomiting, headache, abdominal pain, and anemia. Long-term effects of lead poisoning can include damage to the brain, nervous, and reproductive systems, delayed growth, and development, learning and behavior problems, lower IQ, and shortened attention span.
