Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
These Tiny 'Ticking Time Bombs' Are Pumping Lead Into Drinking Water
NPR: Where Lead Lurks And Why Even Small Amounts Matter
Lead problems with the water in Flint, Mich., have prompted people across the country to ask whether they or their families have been exposed to the toxic metal in their drinking water, too. When it comes to assessing the risk, it's important to look in the right places.Even when municipal water systems' lead levels are considered perfectly fine by federal standards, the metal can leach into tap water from lead plumbing. (Pupovac, 8/12)
In other news —
Cleveland Plain Dealer: Cleveland Schools Testing Water In Over 70 Buildings For Lead; Will Share Results With Parents And Staff
Water cooler and paper cup stations will greet some students and teachers returning to older Cleveland Metropolitan School District buildings after summer break. The district in June started testing the water for the toxin lead in 69 buildings constructed before 2002, according to spokeswoman Roseann Canfora. Testing for lead will continue in water fountains, classroom sinks and faucets in common areas like nurse's offices and bathrooms until finished. A few buildings constructed after 2002 will also be tested. (Dissell and Zeltner, 8/11)
North Carolina Health News: Epidemiologist Resignation Points To Bigger Problem In State Departments
In a stunning twist in the debate over how well state officials are handling potential contamination of drinking wells near coal ash waste dumps, State Epidemiologist Megan Davies resigned on Wednesday evening. In her resignation letter, she accused leaders in the administration of Gov. Pat McCrory and the Department of Health and Human Services of intentionally misinforming the public about the matter. (Hoban, 8/12)
