Lead Guidance for Families

Blood Lead Level (µg/dL)

Recommended Action

0-3.4

There are low amounts of lead in your child’s blood.

• Note: there is no safe blood lead level for children.
• Identify potential source of exposure and prevent further exposure.
• Ensure child is eating diet with iron and calcium.

3.5-19

There are high amounts of lead in your child’s blood.

• Your doctor should discuss your child’s diet and nutrition to ensure they are getting enough iron and calcium.
• Identify sources of exposure and prevent further exposure.
• Your child should receive a follow-up test in 1 to 3 months.
• If there are other children in the home, ensure they get a blood lead test as well.

20-44

There are very high amounts of lead in your child’s blood.

• Follow the recommendations for BLL 3.5-19.
• Your child’s doctor should perform a complete physical exam to see if your child has any sign or symptoms of lead exposure.
• The local health department will visit your home to help find sources of lead.
• Your child should receive a follow-up test in 2 weeks to 1 month. 
• If there are other children living in the home, ensure they get a blood lead test as well.

≥45

There are dangerously high amounts of lead in your child’s blood.

• Follow the recommendations for BLL 20-44.
• Your child should receive a follow-up test as soon as possible.
• If your child has confusion, weakness, seizures, coma, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, take them to the hospital.
• A complete physical exam is needed, including a neurological exam.
• Your local health department will visit your home to help find sources of lead. 
• If there are other children living in the home, ensure they get a blood lead test as soon as possible.