NH Lowers Pediatric Blood Lead Action Level to 5 mcg/dL and Changes Elevated Blood Lead Level (BLL)

On July 2, 2021, NH DHHS issued a health alert regarding NH’s lowering of the pediatric blood lead action level to 5 mcg/dL

Key Points and Recommendations:

• Effective July 1, 2021, NH RSA 130-A, Lead Paint Poisoning Prevention and Control, lowers the NH public health action level for children with elevated blood lead levels (BLL) to 5 mcg/dL; NH’s action level is now consistent with CDC’s blood lead reference level.
• Providers should confirm any capillary BLL test that is 5 mcg/dL or higher with a venous test in the timeframes outlined in the revised NH Child Medical Management Quick Guide for Lead Testing & Treatment.
• Inform the parent/guardian of any child with a confirmed BLL of 5 mcg/dL or greater that they are eligible for nurse case management services provided by NH DPHS’ Healthy Homes and Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (HHLPPP) at no cost, and they will be contacted by the HHLPPP to be connected with additional resources.
• All healthcare providers and organizations who conduct point-of-care BLL testing are also required (NH RSA 130-A:3-a) to provide the parent/guardian of any child with a detectable BLL with this revised NH Lead and Children Fact Sheet; the fact sheet is also available in additional languages at this DPHS website.
• For any questions about BLL testing and reporting, or about resources offered by NH DPHS, please contact the HHLPPP at 603-271-4718.