Childhood Blood Lead Surveillance Data — Idaho

What the data shows

Idaho's Department of Health and Welfare tracks blood lead levels in children through the state's Pediatric Blood Lead Surveillance program. This program monitors children statewide to identify those who may have been exposed to lead and ensure they receive follow-up care.

The CDC collects and publishes county-level data on the percentage of children with elevated blood lead levels (5 micrograms per deciliter or higher). Idaho has 44 counties; you can find your county's most recent percentage on the CDC's County-Level Data Map. These numbers help public health officials understand where lead exposure may be highest and where screening efforts should focus.

Medicaid and screening

Idaho Medicaid covers blood lead screening for children enrolled in the program. Universal screening (testing all children at ages 1 and 2) is recommended by the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics. If your child has Medicaid or Idaho's state insurance, ask your pediatrician whether a blood lead test is appropriate for your child's age and risk factors.

How to access data

For detailed questions about Idaho's pediatric blood lead surveillance data—including county breakdowns, screening rates, or historical trends—contact:

Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Environmental Health Bureau, Lead Program Phone: (208) 334-5958

You can also request data directly through the CDC's database, which compiles state and county information.

What elevated levels mean

If your child's blood lead test shows a level of 3.5 micrograms per deciliter or higher, Idaho health officials recommend follow-up steps: identifying and reducing sources of exposure in the home, environmental testing, and repeat blood testing. A pediatrician or the state health department can explain what your child's specific result means and what to do next.

Do not self-diagnose based on blood lead levels. Speak with your child's doctor or pediatrician about what the results mean for your child and whether further action is needed.

Next steps for residents

• Ask your child's pediatrician whether a blood lead screening is recommended for your child's age
• If your child has Medicaid, confirm that screening is covered under your plan
• Check your county's elevated blood lead percentage on the CDC map to understand risk in your area
• If your child's test shows an elevated level, follow up with your doctor and contact your local health district for guidance on identifying and reducing exposure sources

```json [ { "q": "What is a normal blood lead level for children in Idaho?", "a": "The CDC defines elevated blood lead as 3.5 micrograms per deciliter or higher in children. There is no truly "safe" level; any measurable lead exposure should be reduced. Your pediatrician can explain what your child's specific result means." }, { "q": "Does Medicaid cover blood lead testing for kids in Idaho?", "a": "Yes, Idaho Medicaid covers blood lead screening. The CDC recommends all children be screened at ages 1 and 2. Talk to your pediatrician about whether screening is right for your child." }, { "q": "How do I find out my county's blood lead levels in Idaho?", "a": "The CDC publishes county-level elevated blood lead percentages for all U.S. counties on its County-Level Data Map. You can also contact the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare's Lead Program at (208) 334-5958 for local data." }, { "q": "What should I do if my child's blood lead test is elevated?", "a": "Contact your pediatrician immediately