Enhanced Lead Screening Initiative Launched by V.I. Department of Health in St. Thomas-St. John District

The Virgin Islands Department of Health is broadening its lead screening efforts to encompass the St. Thomas-St. John District, a significant expansion of their “Safe Haven – Lead-Free Families” program. This initiative, as announced on Wednesday, particularly focuses on children aged 0 to 6 years, who are more susceptible to the harmful effects of lead exposure.

Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion underlined the critical nature of this campaign, remarking, “While the Territory’s public water system is generally considered safe, it’s imperative to unearth other possible sources of lead such as paint, toys, and jewelry. By extending our comprehensive screening to the St. Thomas-St. John District, we can obtain a holistic understanding and shape our strategies to reduce lead exposure risks effectively.”

The schedule for this screening in the St. Thomas-St. John District is meticulously planned, covering various educational establishments from January 30th to mid-February. The following is the detailed schedule:

• January 30th at VI Montessori School and Peter Gruber International Academy.
• January 31st at Yvonne Milliner Bowsky Elementary.
• February 1st at Joseph Sibilly Elementary/Sugar Apple Pre-K.
• February 2nd at Joseph Gomez Elementary.
• February 5th at Ula F. Muller Elementary.
• February 6th at Julius E. Sprauve Elementary.
• February 7th at Lockhart Elementary.
• February 8th at Jane E. Tuitt Elementary School.
• February 14th at various preschools and daycare centers including Newton Academy, Minds in Motion, Sunbeam Preschool, Sunshine Bear Daycare and Preschool, and UVI Inclusive Child Care.
• February 15th at Beyond Bright Daycare and Handy Spandy Preschool.

The screening process involves a non-invasive finger-prick test, followed by a more detailed venous blood draw if needed. Participation requires parental consent, and the tests are offered free of charge.

This program aims to identify and address lead poisoning, which can be particularly insidious in children under six, often presenting no overt symptoms. Lead exposure can significantly impair children’s cognitive development, neurological functions, growth, and behavior.

Following the successful screening of over 1,000 children in St. Croix, with three confirmed cases of lead exposure, the department is optimistic about replicating these efforts in the St. Thomas-St. John District. This expansion aligns with the department’s broader “Boots on the Ground” outreach, in partnership with the VI Housing Authority. This initiative forms part of the response to the State of Emergency declared in October, concerning potential lead and copper contamination in the public water supply. Recent comprehensive water sampling in St. Croix has reassuringly indicated low to negligible levels of lead.

Governor Albert Bryan, in his sixth State of the Territory Address, highlighted these efforts, announcing the removal of the “No Drink Advisory” for St. Croix’s public water system, a testament to the ongoing commitment to ensure the health and safety of the territory’s residents.