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1. When should my child be tested for lead poisoning?

All children should be tested for lead poisoning at age 1 and again at age 2.

2. How is a lead test done?

A small amount of blood is taken from a finger or arm and tested for lead. Blood can be drawn at a doctor's office, hospital, clinic or lab.

3. What if my child does not have insurance that will pay for lead testing?

The Cortland County Health Department can help pay for this important test. A sliding fee scale will be used to determine the amount you would be charged.

4. What does my child’s blood lead level mean?

Blood lead levels greater than 5 micrograms per deciliter are considered to be the level at which Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends public health actions be initiated.

For some children, simple changes in diet and more frequent hand-washing are all that is needed. Other children, with very high blood lead levels, may need drugs that help the body get rid of lead. Your doctor will decide what your child needs. But however, treatment is not enough. The source of the lead will have to be found and the problem corrected. Your local health department will advise you.

Learn more about what your child's blood lead test means visit the New York State Department of Health website.