This week, from October 25-31, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is raising awareness about childhood exposure to lead and ways to prevent it.
About Lead Poisoning
Lead poisoning occurs when lead enters the bloodstream and builds up to toxic levels. In 2025, there were 964* cases of childhood lead exposure reported in Virginia.
When absorbed into the body, it can result in:
- Damage to the brain and nervous system
- Learning and behavior problems
- Slowed growth and development
- Hearing and speech problems
Any level of lead exposure is dangerous to children. It’s most dangerous in children less than six years of age. Most children with elevated blood lead levels will not show any physical symptoms.
Common Exposures to Lead in Children
Lead can hide in plain sight, especially if you don’t know where to look. Common sources of exposure include:
- Flaking and peeling paint in homes built before 1978
- Soil near older buildings, airports, or busy roads
- Drinking water delivered through lead pipes, faucets, and plumbing fixtures
- Products such as toys, jewelry, antiques, and collectible items
- Certain foods, cosmetics, and traditional medicines imported from other countries
- Lead brought into the home by someone who works with lead-based products.
The good news is lead poisoning is the most preventable environmental disease among young children. There are some simple and effective strategies parents and caregivers can use to reduce the risk of lead exposure in the home:
- Wet-wipe and wet-mop around doors, entryways, and windowsills
- Wash children’s hands and toys regularly
- Prevent children from playing in bare soil. If they do, immediately wash their hands and clothes
- Run water for 60 seconds before use, and cook with cold tap water only
- Cook nutrient dense meals, high in iron, calcium, and vitamin C
Learn More
*Preliminary data