Immunization

Our Mission

The Division of Immunization has as its mission the reduction of morbidity and mortality associated with vaccine-preventable diseases.

Important Update

Measles Cases in the US

As of May 10, 2019, CDC is reporting 839 cases of measles from 23 states so far in 2019. This is the greatest number of cases reported in the United States since 1994 and since measles was eliminated from this country in 2000.

The high number of cases in 2019 is primarily the result of a few large outbreaks – one in Washington State and two large outbreaks in New York that started in late 2018. The outbreaks in New York City and New York State are among the largest and longest lasting since measles elimination in 2000.  The longer these outbreaks continue, the greater the chance measles will again get a sustained foothold in the United States.

Vaccination is the best way to protect against measles. Today, the overwhelming majority of parents choose to protect their children with vaccines, and we’ve seen high and stable immunization rates in the U.S. for several years. Read more >>

 

Hepatitis A

Virginia is experiencing an increase in cases of hepatitis A, an infectious disease that affects the liver. Hepatitis A is spread person to person by a virus, and some groups are at an increased risk for becoming ill. These include injection and non-injection drug users, persons who are/were recently homeless, persons who are/were recently incarcerated, and men who have sex with men (MSM).

Hepatitis A can be prevented by a vaccine. VDH is working in partnership with community stakeholders and medical providers to identify and respond to cases and to provide vaccine to help control the spread of illness. Read more >>

IAC Hepatitis B Birth Dose Honor Roll

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On July 16, 2013, the Immunization Action Coalition (IAC) launched the Hepatitis B Birth Dose Honor Roll. The Honor Roll recognizes hospitals and birthing centers that have attained high coverage rates for administering hepatitis B vaccine at birth.Congratulations to our Virginia hospitals:

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital-Norfolk, VA
Reported a coverage rate of 93% birth dose rate 1/1/2018 – 12/31/2018 (2nd yr honor roll status)

Riverside Regional Medical Center-Newport News, VA
Reported a coverage rate of 94% birth dose rate 1/1/2018 – 12/31/2018 (5th yr honor roll status)

Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital-Onancock, VA
Reported a coverage rate of 95% birth dose rate 1/1/2018 – 12/31/2018 (5th yr honor roll status)

University of Virginia Health System-Charlottesville, VA
Reported a coverage rate of 92% from 7/1/2014-6/30/2015

Learn more about the IAC Birth Dose Initiative, CLICK HERE!