ODH Supports Fulton County Health Department Lead Testing Clinic for Delta Community

Jan. 13, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: ODH Office of Communications (614) 644-8562

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA, announced today that ODH is supporting the Fulton County Health Department's Lead Testing Clinic for the Delta community, which is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 15. This is in response to the high concentrations of lead in the air detected by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency near the Bunting Bearings demolition site in November and December.

The immediate risk for public health has lowered because the ongoing demolition has stopped, greatly reducing the lead in the outdoor air. However, lead dust already present in the environment remains a concern for all residents of the community, especially children under 6, who can face higher health impacts from lead. Those with lead exposure may not show any immediate signs or symptoms.

"The best way to determine if an individual has been exposed to a high level of lead is to do a blood test," Dr. Vanderhoff said. "We support Fulton County Health Department's response to host this testing clinic for the Delta community. Every day, the state and the local health departments work together to protect the health and well-being of all Ohioans."

ODH is supporting Fulton County Health Department with educational resources on lead that will be available onsite at the testing clinic and shared with the local community. ODH also will supply Fulton County with additional test kits, should they be needed. Details on the testing clinic follow:

Delta Community Testing Clinic
· Date: Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026.

· Time: 3:30-7:30 p.m.

· Location: Delta Memorial Hall, 401 Main St., Delta, Ohio 43515.

· Appointments are preferred; please call (419) 337-0915 to schedule.

This clinic is open to individuals who live, work, or spend time in the Delta community. Priority will be given to children 0 - 6 years old and individuals who are pregnant, although anyone will be tested.

The initial finger prick test is being offered free of charge. If the initial finger prick test shows high lead, 3.5 micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood or higher, additional testing through a healthcare provider will be needed.

Additional testing opportunities are available for residents who are unable to attend the community clinic but are concerned about lead exposure.

Additional Lead Testing Opportunities
· Date: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays starting on Wednesday, Jan. 21.

· Time: 8:30 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.

· Location: Fulton County Health Department, 606 S. Shoop Ave., Wauseon , Ohio 43567.

· Appointments are preferred; please call (419) 337-0915 to schedule.

For up-to-date information on the lead testing clinic, visit Fulton County Health Department. More information on lead is available on the Ohio Department of Health website.

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About the Ohio Department of Health

The Ohio Department of Health's mission is advancing the health and well-being of all Ohioans. ODH is transforming the state's public health system through unique partnerships and funding streams, implementing data-driven, evidence-based solutions. For more, visit the Ohio Department of Health website , which offers a range of public health information, tools, and resources.