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World AIDS Day: December 1

Posted on by R. Ellick

Worlds AIDS Day has been observed on December 1 each year since 1988.  Every year, communities stand together, united with the red ribbon.  We remember those who have been lost, unite in the fight against HIV and AIDS, and raise awareness to prevent new cases of HIV.   

What’s happening in Virginia? 

During the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing measures, patients were less likely to seek routine screening and testing, and as a result Virginia reported fewer new cases during that time. The total number of HIV cases annually in Virginia have returned to pre-pandemic levels.  Certain communities continue to be impacted by HIV more than others.  Youth, ages 15-19, saw a 41% increase in new HIV cases from 2023 to 2024.  Black and Hispanic/Latino persons have seen a 27% increase in new cases each year since 2022.   

There are over 28,000 people living with HIV in the Commonwealth of Virginia.  More than 75% of people with HIV in Virginia are men, and over half are 50 or older.  While Black, non-Hispanic people make up 19% of the population in the Commonwealth, 56% of people with HIV identify as Black, non-Hispanic in Virginia. 

Find more detailed HIV statistics on the data and reports page and the HIV data dashboard. 

Scientific Progress 

Major advances in science have been made since HIV/AIDS was first discovered.  HIV testing is fast, reliable, and available at any local health department or healthcare provider.  Testing is the only way to know if you have HIV.  Not everyone has symptoms during the onset of the infection.  Having a sexually transmitted disease (STD) can make it easier to get or transmit HIV. 

Find HIV and STD testing near you on the VDH testing page.  Learn more about HIV prevention on the HIV prevention page. 

HIV Treatment  

Advances in HIV treatment help people with HIV live long and healthy lives.   

It is proven that when a person with HIV has reached and sustains an undetectable viral load, they will not transmit HIV to their partner sexually.  An undetectable viral load means that the number of copies of the virus in the body cannot be detected by certain tests.  This is often referred to as Undetectable=Untransmittable, or “U=U.”   

Getting into medical care and starting treatment immediately is important.  The sooner a person with HIV starts HIV treatment, the better their health outcomes will be. 

Have Questions or Need Help? 

If you or anyone you know has been diagnosed with HIV, help is available.  Financial assistance with the cost of medications or copays is available through local, state, or federal programs.  These programs can also help you find support groups or other social services in your area.  Learn more on our website, or call the Disease Prevention Hotline at (800) 533-4148.

Pass the Potatoes – Not the Germs

Posted on by R. Ellick

Serve up your Thanksgiving meal without the risk of food poisoning.  

Prevent the Spread of Germs 

Wash Your Hands 

  • Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before, during, and after food preparation and after using the bathroom or changing diapers. 

Prevent Cross-Contamination  

  • Keep raw turkey and its juices separate from foods that won’t be cooked while shopping in the store, when storing in the refrigerator at home, and while preparing meals. 
  • Use one cutting board for raw turkey and a separate cutting board for food that won’t be cooked such as raw fruits and vegetables.  
  • Never place cooked food or fresh produce on a plate, cutting board, or other surface that held raw turkey. 
  • Wash all cutting boards, utensils, dishes, and countertops with hot soapy water after preparing raw turkey. 

 

Prepare Your Turkey Properly 

Take the proper amount of time to thaw your turkey. 

  • Refrigerator method (recommended): 24 hours for every four to five pounds. 
  • Cold-water bath method: 30 minutes per pound. 
  • Microwave method: follow instructions in the owner’s manual. 
  • Never thaw turkey by leaving it on the counter at room temperature. 

Do not wash your turkey.  

  • Washing can actually increase the risk you will spread germs to other foods you’re preparing.   

Cook your turkey to the correct temperature.  

  • Turkey is done cooking when a minimum internal temperature of 165°F is reached. 
  • Thickest part of the breast. 
  • Innermost part of the thigh. 
  • Innermost part of the wing.  
  • If stuffed, make sure the innermost part of the stuffing also reaches 165°F. 

 

Be Smart About Leftovers 

Use the Two-Hour Rule 

  • Refrigerate leftovers  within two hours of cooking or coming out of the refrigerator. 
  • Discard any foods that sat out for more than two hours at room temperature. 
  • After two hours, perishable food enters the Danger Zone (between 40°F to 140°F) where bacteria can multiply quickly and cause the food to become unsafe. 

 Handle Leftovers in the Properly 

  • Store leftover food in small, shallow containers in the refrigerator or freezer. 
  • Shallow containers help cool leftovers more quickly than large containers. 
  • Leftovers can be safely eaten when stored in the refrigerator for up to four days (or, in other words, until the Monday after Thanksgiving).  
  • Leftovers stored in the freezer will be of the best quality when consumed within two to six months. 
  • When reheating leftovers in the microwave oven, cover and rotate the food to make sure food is reheated evenly.  
  • Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of food is 165°F.  

 

More Resources for a Safe Thanksgiving 

National Rural Health Day

Posted on by R. Ellick

National Rural Health Day  honors the dedication and resilience of rural health professionals, organizations, and communities across the country.   

About Rural America 

In the United States, rural areas make up 86% of the country’s land – with almost 20% of the country’s population living there. In Virginia, these numbers are similar: 88% of the state is rural, with 26% of Virginians live in these communities. 

Rural areas face a disproportionate rate of health challenges compared to urban areas, including: 

  • Shortage of qualified health care providers and limited access to specialized care 
  • Higher rates of poverty and food insecurity 
  • Higher rates of cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, and obesity 

 

Virginia State Office of Rural Health 

Virginia’s State Office of Rural Health (SORH) works to tackle the root causes of rural health disparities, improve access to quality healthcare and advance health equity in underserved areas. 

They do this by: 

  • Delivering technical support 
  • Providing updates on healthcare regulations 
  • Sharing essential resources 
  • Collaborating with community organizations and healthcare providers  

An example of SORH’s work is the supporting the launch of a Food as Medicine pilot. Its goal is to improve population health through food-based interventions. It also works to remove barriers to accessing healthy foods.   

These pilots connect hospital patients with fresh foods and produce at farmers markets. Patients receive: 

  • A produce prescription 
  • Grocery vouchers 
  • Culinary medicine education demonstrations. 

These pilots are currently at Lee County Community Hospital and Dickenson Community Hospital.  The Medicare Rural Hospital Flexibility Program provides funds for the program. 

Learn more about Virginia’s State Office of Rural Health.  

Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services Observes Crash Responder Safety Week and Highlights the Importance of Roadway Safety

Posted on by marianhunter

Crash Responder Safety Week is November 17-21, 2025

RICHMOND, Va. — As proclaimed by Governor Glenn Youngkin, November 17–21 is Crash Responder Safety Week in Virginia, observed in alignment with the nationwide effort to recognize the critical work of emergency responders and the dangers they face while managing roadway incidents. The Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) Office of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) joins partners across the Commonwealth and the nation in raising awareness and promoting safer conditions for those who protect motorists on our roadways.

Drivers play a critical role in keeping crash responders safe. All motorists are urged to stay alert, slow down, move over into another lane when possible, avoid distractions, and follow instructions from emergency personnel. Virginia’s Move Over law requires drivers to change lanes or, if unable to do so safely, reduce their speed when approaching vehicles with flashing lights on the roadside.

“Safer roadways are in the hands of every driver on the road,” said State Health Commissioner Karen Shelton, MD. “This week is a reminder to slow down, move over, pay attention, and follow directions when approaching roadway incidents. All of us want to get to our destinations safely.”

Crash responders include EMS providers, firefighters, law enforcement, tow operators, medical examiners, and transportation personnel who all play pivotal roles in ensuring the safe and efficient clearance of roadway incidents.

According to the Emergency Responder Safety Institute, between 40 and 50 crash responders have been tragically killed nationwide while working roadway incidents over the last ten years. Struck-by-vehicle fatalities represent the majority of these deaths, which occur during traffic stops, crash responses, or while providing roadside assistance.

“Through my experience serving as an EMS provider, I understand the serious risks first responders face when working on busy roadways,” said VDH Chief Operating Officer Christopher Lindsay. “During Crash Responder Safety Week, we must remember the importance of roadway safety and give our responders the space they need to do their jobs safely.”

“Behind every flashing light, there is an emergency responder who has someone waiting for their safe return home,” said Office of EMS Director Maria Beermann-Foat, PhD. “Crash Responder Safety Week reminds us that scene safety starts with every driver at every incident — slow down, move over, stay alert, and help us protect those who protect you.”

Roadway incident safety depends on the protective actions taken by responders and the responsible behavior of drivers. Crash responders undergo specialized Traffic Incident Management training to alert the public, guide traffic safely around the scene, and minimize risk to both responders and motorists.

Remember, when you see flashing lights, stay alert, move over, and slow down. Together, we can build a culture of safety on Virginia’s roadways by taking these precautions and increasing awareness.

To learn more about the VDH’s Office of EMS, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/emergency-medical-services/.

Antibiotic Awareness Week

Posted on by R. Ellick

What are antibiotics? 

Antibiotics are medicines that help stop infections caused by bacteria. They do this by killing the bacteria or stopping them from reproducing. 

What conditions do antibiotics treat? 

Antibiotics only treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as: 

  • Strep throat 
  • Urinary tract infection (UTI) 
  • Whooping cough 
  • Dental infections 
  • Some ear and sinus infections 

 

Antibiotics do not work against infections caused by viruses. Antibiotics will not work on viral illnesses such as: 

  • Colds and runny noses, even if the mucus is thick, yellow or green 
  • Most sore throats (except strep throat) 
  • Flu 
  • Most cases of chest colds (bronchitis) 

 

What is antibiotic resistance? 

Antibiotic resistance happens when antibiotics are no longer effective against certain bacteria. This means the germs are not killed and continue to grow.  

Why is antimicrobial resistance a concern? 

  • Resistant infections can be difficult, and sometimes impossible, to treat.  
  • Resistant infections often require lengthy hospital stays, follow-up visits, and costly and toxic alternative treatments 
  • CDC reports that more than 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections occur in the United States each year and results in more than 35,000 deaths. 
  • Resistant germs can make other germs resistant 

 

What causes antibiotic resistance? 

Any time antibiotics are used they can contribute to the development of drug resistance.  Misuse of antibiotics are the main cause of resistance. Misuse of antibiotics happens when a person takes: 

  • The wrong antibiotic 
  • The wrong dose of an antibiotic 
  • An antibiotic for the wrong length of time 
  • An antibiotic when they don’t need to (like a viral infection) 

 

How can you prevent antibiotic resistance? 

  • Take steps to prevent getting sick in the first place 
  • Wash hands 
  • Stay up to date on vaccines 
  • Cover coughs and sneezes 
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick 
  • Only take antibiotics when instructed by a healthcare provider 
  • Take your antibiotics as prescribed  
  • Don’t skip doses and always finish them – even if you feel better 
  • Don’t take antibiotics when you don’t need them 
  • Trust your healthcare provider when they say you don’t need antibiotics for an illness 
  • Never take antibiotics for a viral infection 

 

Where can you learn more about antibiotics? 

Breathe Easy: Take Steps for Healthy Lungs

Posted on by R. Ellick

November is Lung cancer and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) Awareness Months. Lung cancer and COPD are serious diseases that affect the lungs.  

  • Lung cancer is a type of a cancer that starts in the lungs. 
  • COPD prevents airflow to the lungs, causing breathing problems. 

Keep Your Lungs Healthy 

Lower Your Risk for Lung Cancer, COPD, and Other Lung Diseases. 

  • Don’t Smoke. Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer and COPD in the U.S.   
  • Quit tobacco and nicotine use. For free help, call 1-800 QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669), visit QuitNowVirginia.org, or text READY to 34191. 
  • Avoid secondhand smoke from cigarettes, cigars, and pipes. 
  • Limit time in places with bad air quality. 

Other steps to help prevent lung cancer: 

  • Reduce radon in your home, if needed. Get your home tested for radon and take steps to reduce the radon level if it’s high. 
  • Follow health and safety guidelines to avoid carcinogens (things that can cause cancer) at work. 

When to See a Healthcare Provider 

If you have any of these symptoms: 

  • Frequent coughing or wheezing 
  • Shortness of breath doing everyday activities 
  • Trouble taking deep breaths. 
  • Excess phlegm or mucus 
  • Chest pain coughing up blood  
  • Feeling very tired all the time 
  • Weight loss with no know cause 

Get screened for lung cancer yearly if: 

  • Have a 20 pack-year or more smoking history, and 
  • Smoke now or have quit within the past 15 years and 
  • Are between 50 and 80 years old 

Learn More 

Child Safety and Protection Month   

Posted on by R. Ellick

November is Child Safety and Protection Month. In 2023, Virginian children and youth aged 0-24 years accounted for 3,907 hospitalizations and 794 deaths due to injuries. 

During this month, VDH reminds parents, teachers and caregivers things they can do to ensure children and youth grow up in safe and secure environments. 

 

Create a Safe Environment 

 

Be Safe on the Road 

 

Take Care of Yourself So You Can Support Positive and Safe Childhood Experiences 

 

More Information and Resources 

Governor Glenn Youngkin Submits Virginia’s Application for $1 Billion in Federal Funding to Transform Rural Health Care

Posted on by marianhunter

Virginia’s “VA Rural Vitality” plan will expand access, strengthen the workforce, and modernize care delivery across rural communities.

RICHMOND, VA — Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that Virginia has submitted its application for $1 billion in federal Rural Health Transformation funding under H.R. 1, which was signed into law by President Trump on July 4, 2025. The Commonwealth’s proposal — VA Rural Vitality — presents a bold, locally-driven plan to modernize health care delivery, expand the workforce, and improve outcomes across rural Virginia.

Developed under Executive Directive Twelve and led by Secretary of Health and Human Resources Janet V. Kelly, VA Rural Vitality reflects extensive input from communities and providers across the Commonwealth, as well as research on national best practices to deliver lasting change in rural health.

“Our VA Rural Vitality plan takes bold action to ensure every Virginian – no matter their zip code – can access high-quality care close to home,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “This $1 billion investment will strengthen our workforce, expand innovative care models, and deliver the tools communities need to live healthier, more productive lives. I want to thank President Trump and his administration for their collaboration and commitment to transforming rural health care and building a stronger, healthier Virginia for generations to come.”

Four Initiatives Driving Rural Health Transformation

The plan centers on four initiatives designed to empower healthier lives, strengthen the workforce, reimagine care delivery, and accelerate innovation.

Through VA Rural Vitality, Virginia will:

  • Empower healthier lives: Launch incentive-based programs and technology-driven tools that help Virginians prevent and manage chronic conditions.
  • Grow our own workforce: Build local health pipelines through high schools, community colleges, and universities to train and retain the next generation of rural health professionals.
  • Rewire care delivery: Expand hybrid and mobile care models, connect rural providers to larger health systems, and develop sustainable payment structures.
  • Invest in innovation: Deploy advanced technologies, including AI-powered tools, to improve access, coordination, and patient outcomes.

Once funding is awarded, the initiative will be implemented through the Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) in partnership with the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Resources. The Commonwealth will also work alongside hospitals, health systems, federally qualified health centers, food banks, and health technology partners to drive measurable impact statewide.

“This plan reflects the voices of rural Virginians,” said Secretary of Health and Human Resources Janet V. Kelly. “From Chincoteague to the Cumberland Gap, we listened to Virginians who want their health care to improve — and VA Rural Vitality directly responds to their needs with innovative, community-based solutions.”

“We are proud to submit a plan that not only addresses today’s needs but builds a foundation for lasting rural health improvements for generations,” said Cheryl Roberts, DMAS Director. “We look forward to the work ahead with partners across the Commonwealth to deliver this transformational change.”

“Every region of rural Virginia has a role in this work,” added Dr. Karen Shelton, VDH State Health Commissioner. “By connecting care, strengthening the workforce, and supporting healthier lifestyles, we can increase local access to quality care and transform outcomes across the Commonwealth.”

The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services will make Rural Health Transformation awards by December 31, 2025. More information on Virginia’s application can be found at https://www.hhr.virginia.gov/initiatives/rural-health/.

Background 

Rural communities across Virginia face some of the most significant health disparities in the nation:

  • Nearly 55% of rural localities are in Primary Care Health Professional Shortage Areas.
  • 63% of Virginia counties lack an OB-GYN, and 22% of rural residents travel over 40 minutes to reach a labor and delivery unit.
  • Chronic conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and hypertension all exceed national averages.
  • Substance use disorder affects 17% of rural adults and 9% of youth aged 12–17.

Governor Youngkin’s administration has made historic progress improving behavioral health, reducing fentanyl deaths by 59%, and cutting maternal deaths by 49%. VA Rural Vitality builds on that momentum with a comprehensive strategy to make rural Virginia healthy again.

Diabetes Awareness Month

Posted on by R. Ellick

In Virginia, more than 10% of its adult population is living with diabetes. Additionally, an estimated 56,000 adults are diagnosed with diabetes each year in Virginia. Whether you have diabetes or not, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) wants to make sure you can take the best care of yourself to stay healthy. 

About Diabetes 

Diabetes is a chronic disease where sugar (glucose) levels in the bloodstream are above normal. Insulin is what helps your body use glucose for energy and regulate your blood sugar levels.  

When you have diabetes, your body doesn’t: 

  • Make enough insulin (Type 1) 
  • Properly use insulin (Type 2)  

Over time, excess blood sugar in your bloodstream can cause serious health problems. This can include heart disease, stroke, amputations, blindness, kidney disease and dementia. 

To prevent these health problems you can: 

  • Eat healthy food 
  • Be active 
  • Test your blood sugar 
  • Take medications as prescribed 

Learn more about taking care of yourself when you have diabetes. 

About Prediabetes 

In Virginia, more than 1 in 3 adults have Prediabetes.  

Prediabetes is when blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes.  Prediabetes can raise your risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, blindness, amputations and dementia. 

If you have prediabetes, you can lower your risk for developing type 2 diabetes by: 

  • Losing a small amount of weight if you’re overweight 
  • Getting regular physical activity 

Learn more about prediabetes and see if you’re at risk. 

Learn More About Diabetes 

Be Stroke Smart

Posted on by R. Ellick

Every Minute Counts 

World Stroke Day is every year on October 29. This year’s theme is Every Minute Counts – to raise awareness of stroke symptoms and what to do if someone is having a stroke.  

The faster people can recognize the signs of and call for help – the sooner someone can get the treatment and care they need. This can increase the chance of survival and a near or full recovery. 

Signs and Symptoms and When to Seek Help 

  • Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body. 
  • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech. 
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes. 
  • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, 

If you think someone might be having a stroke Act F.A.S.T. Don’t delay and do the following test: 

F—Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop? 

A—Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? 

S—Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is the speech slurred or strange? 

T—Time: If you see any of these signs, call 9-1-1 right away. 

Learn more about what to do if someone might be having a stroke 

VDH Stroke Smart Partner Program 

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Stroke Smart Partner Program recognizes organizations that help make their communities Stroke Smart.  

Any organization—large or small—is invited to share how you’re raising stroke awareness. This can include trainings, education, social media, or community outreach.  

Recognized partners receive a framed Stroke Smart Virginia certificate and thank you letter from VDH. They’ll also receive Stroke Smart Virginia wallet cards, magnets and posters. 

Together, we can educate 9 million Virginians to recognize the signs of stroke—Spot a Stroke. Stop a Stroke. Save a Life. 

Organizations can apply for recognition on the Stroke Smart Virginia Partner Recognition Webpage. 

Learn More About Stroke