Lead Poisoning Prevention Program

You cannot see, smell or taste lead, but it can cause irreversible damage to a child. Lead typically enters the body through ingestion and can stay in the bones for over 30 years.

Lead is commonly found in paint, specifically in homes built before 1978. It can also be found in water, soil, imports, antiques and pottery.

The only way to know if you have lead poisoning is to be tested. As of January 2024, universal lead lead testing is recommended by Wisconsin Department of Health Services for all children at the ages of 1 and 2 and for any child between the ages of 3-5 without a previous lead test. Call your child’s primary provider to setup a lead test/screening.

If you child does not have insurance or a primary care provider, capillary blood lead testing is offered at the Fond du Lac County Health Department. You can schedule this by calling (920) 929-3274. 

The Health Department offers home visits to any child with a blood lead level of 3.5 or higher. These visits help determine possible sources of lead and provide education on how to prevent further lead exposure. If a child has a lead level of 20 or higher, a lead risk assessor will come to your home and all lead hazards will need to be fixed. Lead certified contractors are required to do the work when lead is involved.

You can help protect your child from lead in your home by cleaning often and making sure your child has good nutrition. Fatty and greasy foods make your body absorb more lead. Make sure your child is getting enough iron and calcium. Block off any areas of concern in the home; oftentimes these include windowsills and porches/decks.