State moves closer to implementing universal childhood lead testing in 2026

State Adds Additional Zip Codes to Lead Testing List - Including in Kane County

Kane County Connects Staff - Illinois Department of Public Health media release 7/7/2025 2:00PM

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

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