Childhood Lead Information

The Hamilton Township Division of Health provides nursing case management, lead testing, and environmental inspections for children with elevated blood lead levels within the Township.  For more information or questions contact us at 609-890-3884 or HamNurse@HamiltonNJ.com 

Childhood lead poisoning can occur from a variety of sources including: 

  • Lead paint in homes built before 1978
  • Water, through lead pipes 
  • Soil 
  • Imported goods such as spices, canned goods, toys, jewelry or pottery 
  • Occupational exposure, such as dust on clothing from the workplace 

Symptoms of Elevated Blood Levels Include: 

  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Irritability
  • Delayed Development 
  • Fatigue
  • Hearing Loss 
  • Vomiting 
  • Seizures 

Prevention Tips: 

  • Talk to your healthcare provider or local health department about testing 
  • Clean lead dust with a wet cloth or mop
  • Practice good handwashing to help remove germs and lead 
  • Eating a healthy and balanced diet rich in Vitamin C, calcium and iron can help resist lead from staying in the body  

Universal Blood Lead Testing 

The following children should be tested for blood lead levels: 

  • All children should be tested at both 12 and 24 months of age.
  • Any child 25 to 72 months (less than 6 years) of age who has never previously been tested.
  • Any child up to 72 months of age who has been exposed to a known or suspected source of lead.

Testing can be completed at your pediatrician (covered service under insurance, including Medicaid), Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) or local health department (uninsured residents).  Uninsured residents in need of blood lead testing may contact the Hamilton Township Division of Health at 609-890-3884.  

For more information about childhood lead: 

Shareable Resources 

Date Updated

This page has been updated as of 09/2025.