Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Encourages Families to “Keep Kids Safe from Lead” Encourages Families to “Keep Kids Safe from Lead”
October 26, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker; Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov
Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Encourages Families to “Keep Kids Safe from Lead”
National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is October 25–31, 2026
WISE, Va. – During National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, the Virginia Department of Health’s Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts remind families to learn about lead, ask about testing their children, and check their homes for lead hazards. Lead poisoning can cause lasting harm to children, to include damage to the brain and problems with learning, behavior, and growth.
“Every child in Southwest Virginia deserves a healthy start, and preventing lead exposure is an important part of protecting that future,” said Reisa Sloce, Director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “During National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, we encourage families to learn about potential lead hazards—especially in homes built before 1978—and talk with their child’s healthcare provider about blood lead testing. By working together to identify and address lead hazards, we can help keep our children safe and our communities healthy.”
Lead might be found in old paint, household dust, soil, and drinking water. Some toys, spices, cosmetics, and other products may also contain lead. Homes built before 1978 may have lead-based paint. When this paint peels or is disturbed during repairs, it can create harmful dust. Adults may also bring lead dust home on their clothes and shoes from work or hobbies.
The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts encourage families to take these steps to help prevent lead poisoning:
- Learn about lead. Know where lead may be found in your home and how children may come into contact with it.
- Ask about testing. A child with lead poisoning may look healthy and show no signs of illness. Talk with your child’s healthcare provider about whether your child needs a blood lead test. A blood test is the best way to find out if a child has lead poisoning.
- Check your home. If your home was built before 1978, ask a certified lead inspector to check for lead-based paint, especially before repairs.
- Clean often. Use a damp cloth or mop to clean floors, windowsills, and other surfaces. Wash children’s hands and toys often. Remove shoes before entering your home.
- Make repairs safely. Hire a contractor trained and certified in lead-safe work practices when repairs disturb paint in an older home. To find a firm that offers certified lead inspection services, visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s directory.
For more information about lead and local resources, visit the Lead Safe Virginia webpage or contact your local health department directly: Buchanan 276-935-4591; Dickenson 276-926-4979; Lee 276-346-2011; Russell 276-889-7621; Scott 276-386-1312; Tazewell 276-988-5585; Wise/Norton 276-328-8000.
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