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Childhood blood lead surveillance data in Vermont

What do blood lead levels look like for children in Vermont?

Last verified from EPA SDWIS: 2026-04-14
Water systems
1,357
Known lead
0
Unknown
0
BIL funding
$0M

Childhood Blood Lead Levels in Vermont

Vermont tracks blood lead levels in children through its state health surveillance program. This data helps identify where children may be exposed to lead in water, soil, paint, or other sources in their homes and communities.

Vermont's blood lead screening program

Vermont's Department of Health, through its lead poisoning prevention program, collects and reports childhood blood lead data. The state recommends blood lead screening for all children ages 1–5, with particular focus on children in older housing (built before 1978, when lead paint was banned) or in communities with known lead exposure risks.

Screening is available through pediatricians, family medicine clinics, and Medicaid-enrolled providers. Vermont's Medicaid program covers blood lead testing for all enrolled children at no cost.

What the data shows

The CDC tracks childhood blood lead levels by county. Vermont publishes annual summaries of the percentage of tested children with elevated blood lead levels (defined as 3.5 micrograms per deciliter or higher—the CDC's current reference level). You can request this county-level data directly from the Vermont Department of Health's lead program office.

Because Vermont has 1,357 water systems serving 646,278 people, and lead service lines are relatively uncommon in the state, water is typically not the primary source of childhood lead exposure here. Most cases are linked to lead-based paint in older homes or contaminated soil.

Checking your child's lead level

If your child is between 1 and 5 years old, talk to your pediatrician or family medicine provider about screening. The blood test is simple and painless. If results show an elevated level, your doctor will discuss next steps—which may include testing your home's water, paint, and soil, plus strategies to reduce further exposure.

If you have health concerns about a specific result, consult your child's pediatrician or the CDC's resources on lead and child health.

Next steps for residents

  • Schedule screening: Contact your child's doctor or local health clinic to arrange a blood lead test if your child is ages 1–5.
  • Request state data: Contact the Vermont Department of Health's lead program office to ask about blood lead levels in your county or community.
  • Test your home: If your house was built before 1978, consider having water, paint, and soil tested for lead.
  • Know your water system: Use LeadPipeLookup to find your public water system and check its lead service line inventory.

Related topics in Vermont

Common questions

How often should my child be screened for lead?

Vermont recommends blood lead screening for all children ages 1–5, ideally at age 1–2 and again at age 3–5. Talk to your pediatrician about the right timing for your child.

What does an elevated blood lead level mean?

The CDC defines elevated as 3.5 micrograms per deciliter or higher. If your child's level is elevated, your doctor will help you identify the source (paint, water, soil) and reduce exposure. There is no safe level of lead for children.

Is lead in Vermont's tap water a common problem?

Lead in drinking water is less common in Vermont than lead paint in older homes, but it can occur if your home has lead service lines or lead-containing plumbing. Test your water if your house is older or you have concerns.

Where can I get my water tested for lead?

Contact your local health department or water utility for a list of certified laboratories in Vermont. You can also check LeadPipeLookup to see if your water system has reported lead service lines.