All Wisconsin Children are Now Recommended to Get Tested for Lead

As of January 1, 2024, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) recommends blood lead testing for all Wisconsin children. We’ll break down the guidance for you and let you know what that means for your family.

People are exposed to lead from their environment

The most common source of lead for children is lead paint. Residential lead paint was banned in 1978 but was commonly used before then. If your home or childcare center was built before 1978, it could have lead paint. Children can be exposed from dust that is created from lead paint, or from peeling or cracking paint. Remodeling or renovating can expose lead paint that was hidden under newer layers of paint, which is why it’s important to remodel safely.

Other lead sources can include: soil, old painted toys, imported spices, drinking water when lead pipes are present, produce grown in contaminated soil, and more. Learn more on our website.

Children are affected the most by lead

Lead poisoning can impact a child’s growth, behavior, and IQ. Even if there are no clear signs of lead poisoning, lead can still affect the body. The only way to know if a child is exposed to lead is to test them at your doctor’s office.

Our data show that in 2023, 39 children in Dane County had a blood lead level over 5 ug/mL (0.6% of children tested). If your child has blood lead levels over 5 ug/mL, we’ll work with you to eliminate exposures and help your child access health care. We are also happy to work with you if you have children with lead levels below 5 ug/mL, if you are pregnant, or if you just want help learning how to avoid lead exposures. Learn more on our website.

Wisconsin now recommends universal lead testing for children

From the Wisconsin Department of Health Services:

All children should get at least two lead tests by age 2. Children age 3 to 5 should get tested if they have no record of a previous test. Starting January 2024, Wisconsin recommends testing:

• All children at age 1.
• All children again at age 2.
• Any children between ages 3 to 5 without a previous test.

If you’re not sure if your child has been tested for lead, ask your child’s pediatrician. Children of any age can be tested if there’s a concern about lead exposure.

Still have questions about lead testing? You can reach out to us.

• Talk to a nurse about lead poisoning: 608-243-0304
• Talk to us about lead in your home: 608-242-6515
• Español: 608-243-0380