180 new zip codes, representing parts of 47 Illinois counties are being added to the areas where lead exposure testing is required for children.
This brings the total of high-risk ZIP codes to more than 1,350. By this time next year, all remaining ZIP codes in the state will be included, implementing universal childhood lead testing statewide.
The 47 counties added in this round include a dozen from southern Illinois, such as Jackson, Williamson, Jefferson, Franklin and Hamilton.
Under Illinois law, any child residing in a high-risk ZIP code is to be tested automatically at 12 and 24 months. All children six years of age and younger are required to be assessed for lead exposure through the use of a questionnaire administered by a health care provider. Children who fall into other risk categories spelled out in the questionnaire are also tested.
Lead exposure can lead to damage to the brain and nervous system, slowed growth and developmental, behavioral and learning difficulties, and more.
