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Lead-Safe Wisconsin: Get Your Child Tested for Lead

Lead poisoning often has no visible symptoms until it's too late. Even a small amount of lead in a child's body can cause serious, long-term harm. This is why blood lead testing for children is so important.

The only way to know if your child has been exposed to lead is through a blood test.

Parents and guardians should speak to their child's health care provider. They can help you get a blood lead test.

Gloved hand holding blood sample in a test tube for a lead test

On this page:

Why testing matters

Parent and child meeting with a pediatric neurologist sitting at a desk with a brain scan on their computer

Lead is toxic to everyone, but children under 6 are especially vulnerable. Their bodies absorb lead more easily. This is because their brains and nervous systems are still developing. Even small amounts of lead can affect learning, behavior and development.

Learn more on the DHS What is Lead Poisoning? webpage.

Lead exposure often happens without notice. Testing is the only way to know if a child has been exposed. Early detection allows families and health professionals to take action. Quick action can reduce future exposure and prevent further harm.

Who should be tested?

Wisconsin recommends universal testing.

Universal testing means that every child should be tested for lead. Lead can affect any child, and symptoms are hard to see. Testing everyone helps to make sure that no child is missed.

Wisconsin's Recommendations:

  • All children should be tested at 12 months and 24 months of age (age 1 and age 2).
  • Children between age 3 and age 5 should also receive a blood test if they have not been tested before.

These guidelines apply statewide. Some communities may recommend more testing because of local risk factors. If you live in an area with older housing or known lead issues, there may be more guidance. Check with your child's doctor or local health department for additional information.

The City of Milwaukee recommends a third blood lead test by age 2. Check out the City of Milwaukee's website to learn more.

For more details and printable outreach materials, visit our Forms and Publications library.

Children under age 17

All children under age 17 can be tested if:

  • Their parent or guardian is concerned about lead exposure.
  • Their health care provider learns of possible lead exposure or lead poisoning risk factors.
  • They are a newly arrived refugee. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends testing at arrival and again 3 to 6 months after an initial test.

How to get your child tested

To get blood lead testing for your child, the best place to start is with your child's doctor. Lead testing is typically offered at regular well-child visits, especially at ages 1 and 2. If your child is between 3 and 5 years old and has never been tested, now is the time. You can request testing at any time.

DHS understands that not everyone has a regular healthcare provider. If you don't, your local health department may be able to help you find testing services. Many offer free or low-cost options for families.

How to get your child tested, a short step-by-step

1. Check your child's age and medical history.

Children should be tested at age 1 and age 2. If your child is between 3 and 5 years old and has never been tested, now is the time.

2. Contact your health provider or local health department.

Your child's doctor can order a test during a regular visit. If you don't have a doctor, your local health department may be able help you access testing.

3. Confirm insurance or program coverage.

Lead testing is covered by Medicaid and most private insurance plans. Free or low-cost options may be available through local public health programs.

4. Get tested.

A simple blood test can determine your child's lead level.

How testing works

There are two types of blood tests used to check for lead.

Type of testMethod of collectionDescription
Capillary TestFinger prick.A quick screening test. If results are elevated, a follow-up venous test is needed.
Venous TestBlood draw.A more accurate test that confirms the child's lead level and is used for ongoing monitoring.

Both tests are safe and simple. Your child's healthcare provider, local health department, WIC clinic, or local resource center can help you determine the right option and next steps.

What if my child has lead in their blood?

Understanding elevated blood lead levels in Wisconsin

There is no safe level of lead in the blood. Even small amounts of lead can harm a child's development. However, both the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) have set actions levels to help identify and respond to children who are most at risk for serious health effects.

In Wisconsin, a child's blood lead level is considered elevated if:

  • One venous blood lead level is equal to or greater than 20 micrograms per deciliter (ug/dL), or
  • Two venous blood lead levels are equal to or greater than 15 ug/dL, drawn at least 90 days apart.

These levels prompt public health actions like home visits, inspections, and nursing case management.

Wisconsin also recognizes any blood lead level equal to or greater than 3.5 ug/dL as evidence of lead exposure, based on the CDC's current reference value. At this level, families should get follow-up testing and educational support. Steps should be taken to reduce further exposure.

Learn more:

Next steps

Child sitting on adult's lap while doctor listens to their heart

If your child's blood test shows an elevated blood lead level (EBLL), don't panic, but do take action. The most important step is to reduce or stop any more exposure. The second is to support your child's health and development moving forward.

What happens next

  • Your child's doctor or local health department will follow up. They'll provide more testing, monitoring, and/or care guidance.
  • Public health staff may help you identify and reduce sources of lead in your home or environment. This could include testing paint, dust, soil, water, or household items.

What you can do

Learn more

Questions?

For most questions about lead testing, results, and safety tips, the Lead-Safe Wisconsin Webpages are the best place to start. Use the links above to learn more about testing, lead-safe practices, and how to reduce exposure.

If you have specific questions or can't find the support you're looking for, please reach out.

Contact Wisconsin's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Section

Related pages

Glossary

 
Last revised July 8, 2025