Lead can cause problems with learning, hearing, speech, and behavior.
If blood lead level is 5 or above:
- Call Help Me Grow (216-698-7500) to schedule developmental testing (for children under 3 years).
- Talk to your pediatrician about what to do next.
| Blood Lead Value |
Action to Take |
| 0-4 |
- Your child should be tested for lead once a year until they turn 6 years old.
- Lead levels less than 5 mean there is a low level lead exposure.
- Call your health department to learn more about lead and how to make your home lead safe.
|
| 5-9 |
- Your child will need a blood test every 2-3 months until the level is less than 5. Schedule this follow-up testing with your doctor’s office.
- A case manager will call or send you a letter with advice about your child’s lead level.
- The other children under 6 years old in your home need to be tested also.
|
| 10-19 |
- Your child will need a blood lead test in 1-2 months, and then repeat testing until the number is less than 5. Schedule this follow-up testing with your doctor’s office.
- A case manager from your health department will call to talk about your child’s lead level and will help you learn more about lead.
- The health department will want to check your home for lead.
|
| 20-44 |
- Your child will need a blood lead test in 2-4 weeks, and then repeat testing until the number is less than 5. Schedule this follow-up testing with your doctor’s office.
- A case manager from the health department will talk to you by phone to let you know what to do for your child.
- Your home may be checked for lead by the health department.
|
| 45 or higher |
- Your child must see a doctor or go to the hospital today.
- Your child must be treated with a special medicine to help lower their lead level. Repeat testing 3-4 weeks after treatment. Re-treatment may be necessary.
- Your home must be checked for lead by the health department as soon as possible.
- A case manager from the health department can visit you at home or talk to you by phone to let you know what to do for your child.
|
If you have questions, or would like more information please call, 216-844-LEAD.
* If you have questions about whether your child should be tested for lead, please discuss with your doctor’s office.
