More Kane County ZIP Codes Identified as High Risk for Pediatric Lead Poisoning

On July 1, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) released an expansion of its list of high-risk ZIP codes where testing for lead exposure in children residing there is mandatory. The high-risk ZIP codes in Kane County include 60109, 60110, 60118, 60120, 60121, 60123, 60144, 60151, 60174, 60177, 60505, 60506, 60507, 60510, 60511 and 60542.

IDPH notes that by this time next year, all remaining ZIP codes in the state will be included, implementing universal childhood lead testing statewide.

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 by a healthcare provider. Children who fall into other risk categories are also tested. 

​"We remain deeply committed to addressing pediatric lead poisoning," said Michael Isaacson, Kane County Health Department (KCHD) Executive Director. "Lead exposure continues to pose serious risks to a child's development and long-term health. It's critical that we adhere to state lead testing requirements not only in the high-risk ZIP codes, but across Kane County. We strongly encourage parents and healthcare providers to prioritize lead screening for children under the age of six and to act quickly if exposure is identified. Preventing lead poisoning and intervening early are important steps in safeguarding the health of our children."

Lead can be found in many places, primarily the walls and windowsills of older homes, drinking water, soil, and even some consumer products. No level of lead in the body is considered safe, especially for young children. The bodies and brains of babies and young children are growing rapidly, and exposure to any amount of lead can cause growth issues, learning disabilities, hearing loss, and speech and memory deficits. The KCHD Lead Poisoning Prevention Program works closely with families who have a child that has tested positive for lead. Preventive measures you can take at home include frequent handwashing, removing shoes upon entering your home, providing nutritious meals, keeping floors clean, and avoiding planting a vegetable garden in soil around older homes. 

For more information about the KCHD Lead Poisoning Prevention Program and resources for families, homeowners, tenants, and contractors, visithttps://kanehealth.com/Pages/Lead.aspx. The full list of pediatric lead poisoning high-risk ZIP codes can be found at: https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/environmental-health-protection/lead-poisoning-prevention/families-of-lead-exposed-children/pediatric-highrisk-zip-codes.htm

FULL STATE RELEASE 

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has announced an expansion of its list of ZIP codes where lead exposure testing is required for children who live within those areas. 180 new zip codes, representing parts of 47 Illinois counties, have been added to the list this year, bringing 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.

Lead exposure can lead to damage to the brain and nervous system, slowed growth and developmental, behavioral and learning difficulties, and more. More information on lead exposure can be found at Lead Poisoning Prevention.

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.

High-risk ZIP codes are determined through an algorithm that considers several different risk factors. The department has been expanding that list of ZIP codes gradually. The new expanded list, which takes effect on July 1, 2025, can be found at: Pediatric Lead Poisoning High-Risk ZIP Code Areas (illinois.gov).

Under current Illinois law, blood tests that come back with lead levels in excess of 3.5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) require a public health intervention. This includes a home inspection to determine the source of the lead contamination. If lead is found, the inspector works with the homeowner to remove the sources of lead. In addition, a public health nurse will visit and educate the family on ways to protect children from the harmful effects of lead.

Here is the list of zip codes from Kane County added to the list. 

·  60109 – Burlington 

·  60110 – Carpentersville

·  60118 – Dundee

·  60120 – Elgin

·  60121 – Elgin

·  60123 – Elgin

·  60144 – Kaneville

·  60151 – Maple Park, Virgil 

·  60174 – St. Charles 

·  60177 – South Elgin 

·  60505 – Aurora 

·  60506 – Aurora 

·  60507 – Aurora 

·  60510 – Batavia

·  60511 – Big Rock

·  60542 – North Aurora