For Immediate Release: Oct. 26, 2026
For More Information: Yolanda Y. Harris, [email protected]
Cook County Public Health Reminds Families to Get Their Children Tested for Lead
SUBURBAN COOK COUNTY, IL – In recognition of National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, Oct. 25-31, Cook County Department of Public Health is bringing increased attention to Illinois’ new universal childhood blood lead testing law and lead dangers.
“Lead exposure can cause children to have a lowered IQ, trouble concentrating, learning problems and speech disorders,” said Dr. Kiran Joshi, chief operating officer of Cook County Department of Public Health. “It’s imperative that parents get their children tested for lead early and that parents take necessary steps to reduce exposure to lead. Cook County Department of Public Health can help eligible families with lead remediation.”
While lead exposure can affect anyone, children are at the highest risk of experiencing the harmful effects of lead exposure because their bodies are smaller and still developing.
The new state lead testing requirements , which took effect July 1, 2026, require all children to receive blood lead tests at ages 12 months and 24 months, regardless of where they live. Also, children 6 years old and younger must receive a lead exposure risk assessment through a questionnaire administered by a healthcare provider. Previously, Illinois lead testing requirements applied only to children living in high-risk ZIP codes.
Public health intervention is required when a child’s confirmed venous blood lead level reaches 3.5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL), which is lower than the previous blood lead level threshold. Cook County Department of Public Health’s intervention includes home visits from a public health nurse to check on the child’s health and development, a free home inspection for lead and free home repairs for eligible families.
Housing built before 1978 remains the most prevalent source for lead exposure. More than two-thirds of Cook County homes were built before 1978, when lead-based paint was banned. Children are commonly exposed to lead by eating paint chips and breathing in lead dust. Other sources of lead include contaminated soil, drinking water and household items, like toys, jewelry, makeup, and pottery.
In January 2026, Cook County Department of Public Health launched an awareness campaign to encourage eligible suburban Cook County residents to apply for free lead removal services and home repairs. Applications for the grant are currently on a waiting list and will reopen next spring.
The U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently awarded $6.2 million to Cook County Department of Public Health to support its lead remediation work for the next four years. Officials expect the new funding to support the removal of lead in up to 201 homes and apartments during a four-year period. Between 2021 and 2025, Cook County Department of Public Health provided lead remediation services to 165 homes and apartments.
Learn more about lead poisoning prevention and lead remediation services offered by Cook County Department of Public Health at Lead-SafeCookCounty.com.