NEWS RELEASE


From the Department of Health and Family Services,


Last month's investigation into a case of lead poisoning in an Oregon child has prompted a national recall. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a voluntary national recall of more than 1.4 million metal toy necklaces that contain a high percentage of lead. Even though a recall is underway, these necklaces may still be available in vending machines throughout the country. The items were sold from vending machines in malls, discount department and grocery stores nationwide.


In August, an Oregon child was hospitalized with lead poisoning after swallowing a small medallion necklace purchased from a toy-vending machine. The child's blood lead level was over 100 mg/dL and laboratory testing showed
the medallion contained 388,000 ppm or 39 percent lead. The child is still undergoing treatment, but the child's blood lead level has decreased. Other medallions were found in vending machines in various parts of Oregon. Laboratory analyses of two of these medallions were found to be 37 percent and 44 percent lead.


The necklaces consist of a 10-inch black cord with a 7/8 inch-diameter pendant or medallion. The metal medallion has assorted symbols on one side. The complete text of the press release and photos of the various medallions can be found at www.healthoregon.org/lead/medallion.cfm.


For Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) about lead, go to my link http://www.environmentalhealthguy.com/faq_category.php?catID=4