Lead testing helps protect Olmsted County children

Take action this National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week 

  • News
  • Oct 21, 2025

As part of National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, October 19-25, 2025, Olmsted County is reminding families about the importance of blood lead screening for children. Early testing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the harmful effects of lead exposure.  

As of 2022, only about 30% of children in Olmsted County received a blood lead test by age 3. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) recommends that all children receive this test once around the age of one, and again around the age of two.   

Lead exposure can affect a child’s growth, development, and learning. It can lower IQ, slow growth, and even cause hearing problems. Because symptoms often don’t appear right away, many families may not realize their child has been exposed.  

Children are especially at risk between ages one and two when they begin to crawl, walk, and explore their surroundings.   

Lead testing  

Lead testing is typically done during well-child visits. Providers may offer a quick finger poke (capillary test), while others may use a small blood draw from a vein (venous test). If a test shows elevated lead levels, a second test may be recommended to confirm the result.  

If a child’s lead level is elevated, Olmsted County Public Health Services (OCPHS) will contact the family.     

“We will connect with the family and share information about elevated lead, potential sources, and ways to reduce lead levels,” said OCPHS Public Health Nurse Christy Niemann. “We’re here to answer questions and support families every step of the way.”  

Common sources of lead include:  

  • Paint in homes built before 1978.  
  • Soil and drinking water.  
  • Imported toys, cosmetics, or food.  
  • Jobs or hobbies involving lead, such as welding, shooting firearms, or making pottery which can bring lead dust into the home. 

Regardless of the age of your home or your family’s activities, all children should be tested for lead. If your child hasn’t been tested and is under age 6, talk to your health care provider about lead testing at your next appointment.  

Watch our video: Protecting your child from lead exposure  

Olmsted County’s video Protecting your child - the importance of blood lead testing emphasizes the importance of testing and encourages parents and caregivers to ask their healthcare provider about screening their children.  

Play button over a video still of a child and her mom playing with blocks

This video features:  

  • A local family’s story about getting their child tested.  
  • Why early screening is essential for healthy development.  
  • How health care providers support families through the process.      

Questions?   

Contact healthyhomes@olmstedcounty.gov to learn about lead prevention and lead blood testing.