The Illinois Department of Public Health is marking National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, Oct. 25-31, the agency said in a release. This year's observance follows the state's move to universal lead testing, which took effect July 1, 2026.

Each month in Illinois, hundreds of children statewide are found to have elevated levels of lead in their blood, the department said. Lead exposure can lead to developmental and learning difficulties and other health issues.

"Universal lead testing is an essential tool for identifying and helping children who have been exposed to lead," said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. "It's equally important to identify and remove sources of lead exposure before a child is in harm's way. This week is all about reminding Illinoisans to take the steps to prevent lead poisoning and keep our children safe."

Where lead comes from

The most common source of exposure is deteriorated lead-based paint, which was used in many homes built before 1978, according to the release. Children can be exposed by swallowing or breathing in lead dust from paint that has peeled, cracked or chipped, by eating paint chips, or by chewing on surfaces such as windowsills. The department estimates well over one million homes in Illinois still contain lead-based paint.

If you live in a home built before 1978, a certified inspector or risk assessor can check it for lead-based paint hazards, the department said. Lead can also be found in drinking water, most commonly from lead pipes, faucets and fixtures.

How to reduce exposure

IDPH says simple precautions around the house can significantly reduce lead exposure:

  • Clean up paint chips and peeling paint.
  • Wash floors, countertops and windowsills weekly with soap and water.
  • Use proper safety measures when renovating, such as spraying painted surfaces with water before scraping or sanding and using plastic sheeting to capture debris.
  • Keep children and pregnant women out of a work area until renovations are complete and the area has been thoroughly cleaned.
  • Wash a child's hands, mouth, face and toys often.
  • Have your water tested for lead. If lead is detected, let cold water run for several minutes in the morning before using it for drinking, cooking or mixing infant formula. Use only cold water for cooking.
  • Be aware that lead can be found in products made outside the U.S., such as toys, pottery and makeup, and in some home remedies or ceremonial powders.
  • Remove shoes when coming indoors so lead from dust or soil is not tracked inside.
  • Eat a well-balanced, low-fat diet high in calcium and iron, which can help reduce lead absorption.

Programs and resources

IDPH oversees the Comprehensive Lead Education, Reduction, and Window Replacement (CLEAR-Win) program, which helps residential property owners reduce lead paint and leaded plumbing hazards in qualified homes through window replacement and other remediation. Information on eligibility and applications is available on the IDPH website.

The department will host a public webinar on lead poisoning, testing and prevention on Thursday, Oct. 29, from noon to 1 p.m. Details, signup and additional information on lead exposure and prevention are available on the IDPH website.

Source: the original release