Marathon County Health Department work with families whose children have had evidence of exposure to lead. Lead exposure is responsible for serious health issues in children. Lead exposure in young children can cause reduced IQ and attention span, learning disabilities, developmental delays, and a range of other health and behavioral effects.

Most exposures involve homes or daycares built before 1978 where lead-based paint has deteriorated. Prevention of lead poisoning can be accomplished by eliminating lead-based paint hazards before children are exposed. Wisconsin's goal is to eliminate this disease by making housing lead-safe, and by improving the detection and treatment of lead poisoning in children.

(Lead-Safe Wisconsin).