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LA CROSSE, Wis. (WEAU) - As part of Child Wellness Month, local health experts are advising families about the dangers of lead poisoning. This week also marks National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week. La Crosse County Health Department officials say lead can come from water, soil, or consumer products, but is often seen in older houses with lead-based paint. The CDC says young children tend to put their hands or other objects in their mouths, so a common source of lead exposure for this group is lead dust. Officials add that last year, Wisconsin changed to universal lead testing. “Now it’s recommended that all children be tested for lead at age one and at age two. If a child is between the ages of three and five never had a lead test before, it’s recommended they at least get one test,” says La Crosse County public health nurse Charity Trussoni. While lead poisoning doesn’t have immediate symptoms, children who are affected can struggle with developmental delays and learning difficulties over time. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, statewide lead testing for children under age 6 increased 26% in 2024.
