County Services Employment Opportunities County Departments and Agencies Board of Supervisors County of Alameda Home Page
 

Alameda County Lead Prevention Program

BLOOD LEAD LEVELS
What do they mean?
 

The blood test gives an idea of how much lead your child has recently been exposed to.   The meaning of the blood lead test results are explained below:

Normal Blood LevelBelow 10µg/dL
Below 10 micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood
This is a normal blood lead level.
»   If you live in an older home with peeling paint your child(ren) under age 6 may need to be tested again within the next year.
Slightly Above Normal10-14 µg/dL
10-14 micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood
This level is slightly above the level that is considered normal.
»  Your child may need to be tested again in 3-6 months.  Talk with your doctor.
»  Look for lead hazards around your home--we'll send you information that will help you.
Mild Exposure to Lead15-19 µg/dL 15-19 micrograms of lead per deciliter of bloodThis level means your child has a mild exposure to lead.
»  Your child needs another blood test in 3 months.   Talk with your doctor.
»  We will provide information to help you look for hazards around your home.
»  If your child has a second blood lead test result in this range and you live in Alameda County, call the Program at
(510) 567-8282 and speak with one of our Public Health Nurses.
Moderate to High Exposure to Lead20-44 µg/dL
20-44 micrograms of   lead per deciliter of  blood
This level means your child has a moderate to high exposure to lead.
» Immediately make a medical appointment for a confirming blood lead test and lead poisoning checkup.
» Lead hazards must be found and reduced.  We will provide information to help you look for lead hazards around your home.
» Follow your doctor's recommendation for retesting and keep all medical appointments.
Serious Level of Lead PoisoningAbove 44 µg/dL
Above 44 micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood
Lead poisoning at this level is serious.
»  Your child needs a full medical checkup and treatment NOW!
»  Your child may need to be in the hospital for specialized treatment.   Your doctor will advise you.
»  Lead hazards must be found and removed.  Your child needs a lead safe home to get well.  The lead Program will provide recommendations for decreasing exposure to lead.
»  Follow your doctor's recommendations for retesting and keep all medical appointments.

A blood lead level over 70 µg/dL requires immediate medical attention!

 

Board of Supervisors | Departments and Agencies
Employment Opportunities
Home | Search