In an effort to highlight the importance of identifying children who have been lead poisoned, the Illinois Department of Public Health produces its surveillance report to alert the community to the geographical risk of lead poisoning and to report on screening results. The hope is that increased public awareness will result in less harm to children in the areas of developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioral problems associated with lead poisoning. This document is comprised of the 1997 and 1998 reports. The 1997 issue reports on: (1) highlights of the statistical analysis; (2) at what age children should be screened; (3) effects of lead poisoning; (4) Illinois lead programs; and (5) county summary report of screening results. The 1998 issue reports on: (1) highlights of the statistical analysis; (2) age of housing and income levels; (3) rental housing dilemma; (4) county summary report of screening results; (5) low cost ways to reduce lead hazards at home; and (6) housekeeping tips to reduce lead hazards at home. Both issues conclude with a resource list for further information. (SD)