Springfield, IL-(Effingham Radio)- Move puts state closer to goal of universal lead testing by 2026
High-risk ZIP codes are determined through an algorithm that assesses a number of different risk factors. The department has been expanding that list of ZIP codes gradually and expects to implement universal testing for lead exposure across all Illinois ZIP codes by 2026. The new expanded list, which took effect July 1, 2024, can be found at: Pediatric Lead Poisoning High-Risk ZIP Code Areas (illinois.gov).
Under current Illinois law, blood tests which come back with lead levels in excess of five micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) require a public health intervention. This includes a home inspection to determine the source of the lead contamination. If lead is found, the inspector will work with the homeowner to remove the sources of lead. In addition, there will also be a visit from a public health nurse who will educate the family on ways to protect children from the harmful effects of lead.
The newly-added ZIP codes come from the following Illinois counties:
- Adams
- Alexander
- Bond
- Boone
- Calhoun
- Carroll
- Champaign
- Clinton
- Coles
- Cook
- Crawford
- Cumberland
- Dekalb
- Douglas
- DuPage
- Edwards
- Effingham
- Franklin
- Gallatin
- Hardin
- Henry
- Jackson
- Jefferson
- Jo Daviess
- Johnson
- Kane
- La Salle
- Lake
- Lee
- Macon
- Macoupin
- Madison
- Marion
- Marshall
- Massac
- McLean
- Monroe
- Montgomery
- Morgan
- Ogle
- Peoria
- Piatt
- Pope
- Pulaski
- Putnam
- Randolph
- Richland
- Rock Island
- St. Clair
- Saline
- Sangamon
- Shelby
- Tazewell
- Union
- Vermilion
- Washington
- White
- Whiteside
- Will
- Winnebago
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