Toxic Substances Surveillance

Databases are maintained within the Public Health Toxicology Program based on information reported to the Virginia Department of Health by physicians, laboratories, hospitals, and medical facilities. Statistical analysis is performed on the number of reported cases by race, sex, age, range of elevation, population rates, locality, and health district.

Lead - Elevated Blood Levels in Children Reports contain information on children, age 15 years or younger, with an elevated blood lead level of greater than or equal to 5 micrograms of lead per deciliter of whole blood (µg/dL).  Prior to 2016 the screening level was 10 µg/dL.

Toxic Substance-Related Illness Reports include information on adults whose diagnostic test results indicate a possible exposure to a toxic substance. Examples of the reports include blood or urine test results for exposure to lead, cadmium, mercury, or arsenic. Information is also provided on individuals diagnosed with asbestosis or pneumoconiosis.

For information on other reportable disease surveillance data, visit the Division of Surveillance and Investigation website.