February is Children’s Dental Health Month. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) wants to remind families and communities about the importance of teaching young children good dental habits. Healthy teeth help children eat, speak, learn, and feel confident. 

Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is most the common chronic disease of childhood in the United States. Luckily, it’s one of the easiest conditions to prevent.  

Healthy Habits = Healthy Smiles 

Parents, guardians, and caregivers can assist children develop healthy habits by: 

• Brushing their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. 

• Helping your child brush their teeth until they have good brushing skills using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.  

• Asking your child’s dentist to apply dental sealants when appropriate. Applying dental sealants to the back teeth prevents 80% of cavities.  

• Drinking fluoridated tap water when possible. 

Heathy Smiles for Everyone 

Communities also play an important role in increasing access to dental care. Some families face barriers like high costs, lack of insurance, transportation, or too few dentists in their community. Programs, like VDH’s Dental Health Program, can help by providing dental screenings, sealants, and community-based education to those facing barriers to care.  

Children’s Dental Health Month is a reminder that dental health matters for every child. By starting good dental habits early, we can make sure every child has a healthy smile that will last a lifetime.  

Learn More 

Learn more about oral health for children at www.vdh.virginia.gov/oral-health/ 

Cardiovascular disease and heart disease – many times these terms are used interchangeably, but they’re not the same.  

Cardiovascular Disease 

Cardiovascular disease is the term for ALL types of diseases that affect the heart (cardio) or blood vessels (vascular).  This can include: 

• Coronary artery disease: Problem with your heart’s blood vessels, like blockages.  

• Arrhythmia: Problem with your heart’s electrical conduction system. This can cause abnormal heart rates or rhythms. 

• Valve disease: Tightening or leaking in your heart valves. These are structures that allow blood to flow from one chamber to another chamber or blood vessel. 

• Heart failure: Problem with heart pumping and relaxing functions, leading to fluid buildup and shortness of breath. 

• Stroke: Problem with the blood vessels in the brain, including blockages and bleeding. 

• Peripheral artery disease: Issue with the blood vessels of your arms, legs or abdominal organs, such as narrowing or blockages. 

In Virginia, United States and worldwide, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death.  

Heart Disease 

Heart disease is a type of cardiovascular disease.  Heart disease refers to several conditions that affect the heart itself and how it works. The most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease (CAD).  CAD affects the blood flow to the heart. Decreased blood flow can cause a heart attack. 

About 5% of Americans have been diagnosed with heart disease. Nearly 690,000 Americans die from heart disease each year, including almost16,500 Virginians. 

Common Symptoms of Cardiovascular Diseases 

• Symptoms of Heart Issues 

• • Chest pain 

• • Chest pressure, heaviness or discomfort 

• • Shortness of breath  

• • Dizziness or fainting 

• • Fatigue or exhaustion 

• Symptoms of blockages in blood vessels  

• • Pain or cramps in your legs when you walk 

• • Leg sores that aren’t healing 

• • Cool or red skin on your legs 

• • Swelling in your legs 

• • Numbness in your face or a limb 

• • Difficulty with talking, seeing or walking 

Protect Yourself from Cardiovascular Diseases 

• Have a healthy diet. 

• Be physically active. 

• Maintain a healthy weight.  

• Don’t smoke.  

• Limit alcohol use.  

• If you have high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes take steps recommended by your health care provider. You can keep it under control by taking medication and monitoring blood sugar and blood pressure.  

 

Learn more.  

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) is observed on February 7 each year.  It exists to raise awareness about the impact of HIV on Black and African American communities.  It was first observed in 1999 and highlights the importance of decreasing stigma and increasing community involvement.  Improving access to HIV education, prevention, testing, and HIV care are focuses of NBHAAD, as well. 

Virginia data 

As is the case across the U.S., Black and African American communities are more impacted by HIV in Virginia.  In 2024, while Black/African American communities made up 19.12% of Virginia’s population, they accounted for 50.2% of new HIV diagnoses and 56% of people with HIV in Virginia that year.  The figure below shows the rate of new HIV diagnoses by race and ethnicity per 100,000 persons.  Using rates allows for the comparison across different population sizes.

You can find additional HIV, STD, and viral hepatitis data on our website. 

Causes 

According to KFF, several challenges may contribute to the epidemic among Black people.  These include experiences with: 

• Higher rates of poverty 

• Lack of access to health care 

• Higher rates of some sexually transmitted infections  

• Lower awareness of HIV status 

• Stigma and discrimination 

Combating Stigma 

How can you help combat stigma?  Talk openly about HIV to help normalize the subject.  This helps others learn about HIV and correct myths and misinformation.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a stigma language guide that can help with these talks. 

We can all help end HIV stigma through our words and actions in everyday life.  Be a role model for positive and supportive behavior.  Check out some scenarios from CDC to see how you can model positive behavior when you witness HIV stigma. 

Access testing and prevention services near you 

Free or low-cost HIV, STD, and viral hepatitis testing is available throughout Virginia.  VDH funds local health departments, clinics, and community organizations to offer testing services if you do not have a primary care provider.  To learn more about testing in Virginia or to find testing near you, visit our testing webpage. 

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) for HIV is available as a pill taken daily, or a shot taken every other month or every six months.   PrEP prevents getting HIV through sexual contact about 99% of the time when taken as prescribed.  VDH provides funds to locations throughout the Commonwealth to offer HIV PrEP.   

Additionally, there are also post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) options to prevent HIV and STDs.  PEP for HIV involves taking a course of medications to prevent HIV infection.  It is critical that these medications are started within 72 hours of a potential exposure.  DoxyPEP involves taking the antibiotic doxycycline after unprotected sex to prevent getting a bacterial STD.  DoxyPEP is available at most local health departments. 

If you’re interested in PrEP or PEP, visit our PrEP and PEP webpage to learn more or find a PrEP clinic near you.  As noted above, nPEP is extremely time-sensitive, so please call your provider or our hotline if you believe you have been exposed to HIV and need PEP.  To learn more about DoxyPEP, read our DoxyPEP fact sheet. 

VDH’s response 

VDH’s Division of Disease Prevention has multiple programs that address HIV prevention and treatment.  This includes: 

• Funding, oversight, resources, or support to local health departments, community, and/or clinical organizations for: 

• HIV, STD, and viral hepatitis testing programs 

• Patient linkages and referrals 

• Education and outreach programs 

• Comprehensive harm reduction programs 

• Condom distribution 

• PrEP, PEP, and DoxyPEP distribution 

• Disease intervention services 

• Data collection and follow-up 

• Community planning groups 

• HIV care services 

• And more! 

Learn more about the services that VDH provides on our website.  If you want to become involved in any of our community groups, visit our Get Involved page. 

Reach out for support 

If you have any questions or need additional support, contact the Virginia Disease Prevention Hotline.  Hotline counselors are available weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  It is closed on Virginia state holidays.   

The hotline number is (800) 533-4148 and is toll free.  

Hotline staff can help connect you to programs and needed resources throughout Virginia. 

February is National Cancer Prevention Month. This month is a great time to learn about the many ways to prevent or lower your risk for developing cancer.  

Cancer prevention starts with the choices you make every day. While not all risks are within our control, every step you take can help create a healthier future. 

Avoid Tobacco 

• Smoking is one of the most preventable causes of cancer. 

• Smoking and consuming tobacco products is linked to 20 different cancers.  

• Nearly 20% of all cancer cases and 30% of cancer-related deaths are caused by smoking cigarettes. This includes 80% to 90% of lung cancer deaths.   

Learn more about quitting tobacco.  

Eat Healthy and Stay Active 

About 19% of cancer cases are caused by a combination of excess body weight, alcohol consumption, poor nutrition, and physical inactivity.  

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and legumes. Limit refined sugar, red meat, and processed meat.  

• Limit alcohol consumption as it’s linked to multiple cancers. This includes breast, kidney, colon, lung, and liver cancers.  

• Stay physically active. Physical activity is protective against cancer. Experts recommend engaging in at least 30 minutes of some activity per day. This can include any form of exercise, such as walking, cycling, running, yoga, swimming, and strength training.   

Learn more about eating healthy and staying active.  

Protect Your Skin from the Sun 

Ultraviolet (UV) exposure, through the sun and tanning beds, is the main cause of skin cancer. It’s one of the most common cancers in the United States. 

• Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.  

• Avoid using tanning beds. 

• Wear protective clothing, hats and sunglasses.   

• Stay in the shade when possible.  

Learn more about preventing skin cancer.  

Learn more about VDH’s collaboration with the Cancer Action Coalition in Virginia and the Virginia Recreation and Parks Society to provide Sun Safety Awareness information to schools, day camps, and other partners in Virginia. 

Stay Up to Date on Screenings 

Screening means checking your body for cancer before you have symptoms. Getting screening tests regularly may find certain cancers early, when treatment is likely to work best. If and when people should get screened are determined by sex, age, and risk factors. These screenings include: 

• Breast cancer 

• Cervical cancer 

• Colorectal (colon) cancer 

• Lung cancer 

See when you’re recommended to get these screenings. 

Some women in Virginia may be eligible for free breast and cervical cancer screening. 

Get Vaccinated 

HPV Vaccine 

• The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine prevents six different types of cancers. It’s best to be vaccinated before you are exposed to HPV.  

• The HPV vaccine is recommended for routine vaccination at age 11 or 12 years of age, well before people are exposed to HPV. HPV vaccination can also start as early as 9 years of age. 

• People aged 26 years and younger who are not fully vaccinated can get the HPV vaccine.  

• Some adults age 27 and older may choose to get vaccinated, in consultation with a healthcare provider.  

• Talk to a healthcare provider about this vaccine.  

Learn more about the HPV Vaccine.  

Hepatitis B Vaccine 

• The hepatitis B vaccine is considered the world’s first anti-cancer vaccine.  

• Worldwide, chronic hepatitis (hepatitis B and hepatitis C) causes at least 80% of all liver cancers. 

• Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent hepatitis B infection and is recommended for: 

• All infants 

• All children and adolescents younger than 19 who have not been vaccinated 

• Adults 19-59 who have not been vaccinated 

• Adults 60 and older with risk factors for hepatitis B or who wish to be vaccinated 

• The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians recommend all infants get a birth dose of the hepatitis B vaccine. 

• The Virginia Perinatal Hepatitis B Prevention Program works with local health departments, hospitals, and healthcare providers to prevent the spread of hepatitis B from mother to baby. 

• Talk to a healthcare provider about this vaccine. 

Learn more about Virginia’s Perinatal Hepatitis B Prevention Program 

CDC: Hepatitis B vaccine  

American Academy of Pediatrics  

 For more information: 

• VDH information and local resources for cancer 

• Virginia Cancer Registry 

• Virginia Cancer Data 

• Virginia Comprehensive Cancer Control Program 

• Cancer Action Coalition of Virginia 

Cervical cancer is cancer of the cells in the cervix.  Each year, about 13,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and about 4,000 people die from it.  

Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by human papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV. 

About HPV 

There are more than 100 types of HPV. Roughly a dozen are known to lead to cancer. HPV infections cause most cervical cancers. 

HPV is spread from person to person through skin-to-skin contact. Most people will get HPV at some point in their lives, but do not know it.  This is because the body is often able to fight off the infection.  However, if your body can’t fight the infection, it can cause the cells of your cervix to change into cancerous cells. 

Protection against HPV and cervical cancer begins before you are exposed to it.  

Prevention 

Get Vaccinated 

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers because of the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine protects against HPV types that cause 90% of all cervical cancer. It also protects against other cancers. 

• The HPV vaccine works best before exposure to the virus.  

• The HPV vaccine is recommended for routine vaccination at age 11 or 12 years of age  well before people are exposed to HPV. Vaccination can also start as early as 9 years of age. 

• People aged 26 years and younger who are not fully vaccinated can get the vaccine.  

• Some adults age 27 and older may choose to get vaccinated, in consultation with a healthcare provider.  

• In Virginia, 3 out of 4 thirteen year olds are vaccinated with at least one dose of HPV. 

• The HPV vaccine is available for free through the Virginia Vaccines for Children (VVFC) program for eligible children ages 9-18. 

Get Screened  

• Women should start getting screened for cervical cancer at age 21. Screening can include HPV and/or Pap tests.  

• A healthcare provider can help women determine which screening test is best and how often they should get screened.  

• Uninsured and eligible women can get free screenings through the Every Woman’s Life Program. 

Practice Healthier Habits 

• Use a barrier method (condom or dental dam) during sex. This can reduce (but not eliminate) the chance of HPV spreading.  

• If you smoke, stop or cut back if you can. People with a high-risk type of HPV and who smoke are more likely to get cervical cancer. 

More Information 

• Every Woman’s Life Program  

• Cervical Cancer | American Cancer Society 

• Cervical Cancer Awareness | CDC 

• VDH HPV vaccine webpage 

On Maternal Health Awareness Day, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is shedding light on the importance of maternal health and the work that’s been done to improve maternal health outcomes in Virginia. 

What is Maternal Health? 

Maternal health refers to the health and well-being of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and after childbirth (postpartum). It includes physical, emotional, and mental health. 

Maternal health includes access to: 

• Quality prenatal care 

• Safe delivery services 

• Postpartum support  

• Prevention and management of health conditions that can affect pregnancy outcomes 

When people can access quality maternal health resources it can help:  

• Reduce the risk of complications 

• Support healthy babies and mothers 

• Ensure mothers have the support they need before, during, and after pregnancy 

Maternal Health in Virginia 

Maternal mortality (death) rates in Virginia have been going down since their peak in 2021. Yet, some populations are affected more than others.  

Maternal Health Disparities 

In 2023, Virginia’s maternal mortality rates for Black women were more than double compared to non-Hispanic White women.  Additionally, people of color have lower rates of adequate prenatal care and may be less likely to receive services such as important health screenings and appropriate monitoring of baby’s growth.  

 In 2023 in Virginia:  

• 11.9 % of Hispanic women had late or no prenatal care 

• 9.4% American Indian or Alaska Native women had late or no prenatal care 

• 5.8% of Black or African American women had late or no prenatal care 

• 4.5% of Asian or Pacific Islander woman had late or no prenatal care 

• 3.8 % White women had late or no prenatal care 

Access to Care 

In Virginia, rural and underserved communities continue to face limited access to care: 

• According to March of Dimes, 31% of counties are defined as maternity care deserts. These are areas that lack adequate maternity care resources, such as birthing hospitals and obstetric providers.  

• Women in maternity deserts travel over three times farther than those with full access.  

• 15% of women had no birthing hospital within 30 minutes.

Severe winter weather, including snow, ice and extremely cold temperatures, is expected throughout much of Virginia this weekend. On January 22, Governor Spanberger declared a State of Emergency due to winter weather. 

Check out this important message from State Health Commissioner Dr. Cameron Webb, who provides safety and preparedness tips ahead of the winter storm.

Now is the time to prepare! Before the storm hits, take these steps to prepare you and your family: 

• Check and restock your emergency kit with food, and water, blankets, flashlights and batteries. 

• Ensure you have an emergency kit for your vehicle(s). 

• Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, home-use medical devices, and vitamins. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines. 

• Winterize your home by insulating exposed pipes and caulking and weather-stripping doors/windows. 

• Check batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.  

• Replenish fuel for your car and heating sources. 

• Charge all phones, computers and radios. 

• Make sure you understand the warnings, watches and advisories and have multiple ways to receive alerts. 

Follow these tips to protect you and your family during and after the storm. 

• Bring your pets indoors and ensure they have water. 

• Stay indoors and limit your exposure to the cold. 

• Properly ventilate emergency heat sources. 

• Use space heaters safely. Keep heat sources at least three feet away from drapes, furniture, bedding, or other flammable materials. Never cover your space heater. 

• Keep generators outside at least 20 feet from your home. 

• Check on neighbors and family. 

If you must go outside, please take these precautions to stay safe and prevent frostbite and hypothermia: 

• Be aware of wind chill factor. Dress warmly and in layers. Make sure you cover your head, fingers and toes. 

• Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps. 

• Avoid getting wet. If you get wet, change out of wet clothes as soon as possible. 

• Stay hydrated. Drink warm beverages. 

• Take frequent breaks if shoveling snow or working outdoors. 

• Stay off the roads. If you must travel, use 511.vdot.virginia.gov to check the road conditions along your route first. Allow extra time and follow these tips from the Virginia Department of Transportation. 

Prepare now with these steps to stay safe and warm for this storm and throughout the winter. For additional tips and answers to frequently asked questions, please visit our response page.

About Birth Defects 

Birth defects are structural changes that are present at birth. They affect how the body looks, works, or both. They can also affect almost any part of the body, such as the heart, brain, or even a foot.   

Birth defects affect about 1 in every 33 babies born each year in the United States. They affect 3,000 babies each year in Virginia. They’re also the leading cause of infant deaths (about 20%). Data related to certain birth defects in Virginia is now available in a dashboard for the public.  

“Birth defect” is a medical term. It does not mean that a person is “defective.” It refers to physical or biochemical changes that cause problems with how the body develops or how the body works. These changes result in health conditions that develop in a baby before birth.   

Birth defects can be discovered at any time during pregnancy or even later after birth. Most frequently they are found during the first trimester. 

Every person’s journey with a birth defect is unique. It’s shaped by their specific condition, individual strengths, and the support system available to them. It’s important to remember that a community of support can help people with these conditions and the people who take care of them.  

Causes  

We don’t know the cause of many birth defects.  For some, the cause(s) may be: 

• Genetics (having someone in your family with a birth defect) 

• Behaviors (like smoking, drinking alcohol, or taking recreational drugs during pregnancy) 

• Environment (like where you live, work, or even the kinds of foods you eat) 

Prevention During Pregnancy 

Not all birth defects can be prevented. However, making healthy choices can help reduce the risks of birth defects. 

• Take care of your overall health 

• Reduce exposure to infections, like chickenpox, rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV), COVID-19 or listeria 

• Take care of existing health conditions, like diabetes 

• Try to keep a healthy weight 

• Treat fevers higher than 101 

• Avoid hot tubs or other environments that might cause overheating 

• Attend all your prenatal visits  

• Avoid nicotine-containing products, drinking alcohol, and illicit drugs. 

• Get 400 micrograms of folic acid every day  

• Having enough folic acid in your body before and during pregnancy can help prevent birth defects of the brain and spine. 

Learn more. 

Screening and Diagnosis 

Prenatal screening can help identify if your baby is more or less likely to have certain birth defects. Screening tests do not provide a specific diagnosis—that requires a diagnostic test. 

Certain birth defects might not be diagnosed until: 

• Immediately seen at birth 

• Sometime after the baby is born 

• Later in life 

Information and Resources 

For Parents and Families 

• VDH Resources for Parents 

• VDH Care Connection for Children (CCC) 

• CDC Birth Defects 

• CDC Information for Families Living with Birth Defects 

For Healthcare Providers 

• Virginia Environmental Public Health Tracking: Birth Defects 

• VDH Care Connection for Children (CCC) 

• CDC Birth Defect Resources for Healthcare Providers 

About Radon 

Radon is an odorless, invisible, and radioactive gas that is naturally released from rocks, soil, and water. Radon can get trapped inside homes and build up to unsafe levels. 

Exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. This exposure contributes to roughly 21,000 cases of lung cancer annually in the United States, including almost 700 cases per year in Virginia. 

In Virginia, high radon test results have been found in every county.  

Testing for Radon 

The only way to know if your home has unsafe levels of radon is to test for it.  

Testing your home for radon is important to ensuring you and your family’s health. 

Key times to test your home’s radon levels are: 

• If your home’s radon levels are unknown 

• If you’re preparing to buy or sell 

• Before and after any renovations 

• Before spending more time in the basement or lower level (like converting a basement to a bedroom or office) 

Getting a Test Kit 

You can purchase a test kit at a local hardware store. Make sure your test kit is approved by the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP), or the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB). Follow test kit instructions carefully.  

Virginia residents are eligible to order a test kit from VDH for the cost of $4 for shipping. They are available until supplies run out. 

For More Information 

VDH Indoor Radon Program 

CDC Radon 

The holidays are a time for fun, family, and traditions. With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget about safety.  Take these simple steps to make sure kids stay safe while still enjoying every part of the season.  

Decorate Safely 

Keep potentially dangerous holiday decor out of the reach of kids and pets: 

• Breakable decorations, ornaments, lightbulbs 

• Tinsel  

• Holiday plants that are toxic to both humans and pets 

Fire Safety  

Candles and fireplaces can make the house feel warm and cozy—but they also bring fire risks. 

• Make sure smoke alarms are working.  

• Keep candles out of reach. Never leave them unattended and consider using battery-powered ones instead. 

• Turn off holiday lights whenever you’re leaving the house.  

• Keep Christmas trees watered, secured, and away from heat sources.  

• Make fireplace fires safely. Get your fireplace inspected by a professional. 

 Toy Safety 

Take these steps to protect children from choking and injuries while playing with toys: 

• Give gifts that are age appropriate.  

• Read instructions and warning labels before using. 

• Show kids how to use their toys safely.  

• Make sure batteries (especially button batteries) are secured with a screw. 

• Make sure toys haven’t been recalled: Recalls & Product Safety Warnings 

 Food and Drink Safety   

Whether it’s time to cook or time to eat – make sure kids are doing it safely. 

• When cooking: 

• Keep kids at a distance when cooking.  

• Keep hot foods and liquids out of children’s reach. 

• Cook on the back burners when possible. 

• Be mindful of choking hazards like nuts, popcorn, and hard candies. 

• Store alcohol where kids cannot access it.  

• Take special care during parties and keep an eye on guests’ drinks too.  

• Clean up promptly after the party so kids don’t find drinks left behind. 

Winter Driving 

Make sure you and your loved one arrive safely during the holidays.  

• Never drive under the influence. Always have a designated driver. 

• Always make sure your child rides in an appropriate car seat, booster seat, or seat belt. If you’re not sure whether they are installed correctly, you can find a Safety Seat Check Station near you for free assistance. 

• In cold weather, children should wear thin layers when harnessed using a safety seat or vehicle seat belt. Children should not wear heavy layers. 

• Once safely restrained, jackets or blankets can be laid over the harness or seat belt to keep the child warm.  

Firework Safety 

Professional firework displays are the safest way to see fireworks – at a distance. Many local jurisdictions prohibit the use of all fireworks. Check with your locality to determine any local regulations. 

If you choose to set off your own, use the safety measures below:   

• Use legal fireworks and sparklers. 

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks. 

• Older children should use them only under close adult supervision.  

• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.  

• Follow other safety measures for handling and discarding fireworks.  

Indoor Pool and Spa Safety 

Make sure to swim healthy and “pool safely” with these tips if you are traveling for the holidays.  

• Teach all family members, including children, basic swimming and water safety skills. Use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets as directed. 

• Learn CPR, First Aid, and how to respond to an emergency. 

• Watch kids closely when they are in or around water, and make sure they are not swimming alone. Avoid being on your phone, and make sure you have a person who can watch kids if you need to take a break.  

• Before booking a place to stay, make sure their pools or spas follow health codes and have safety equipment and safety personnel available.  

• Don’t use alcohol or drugs with pool or spa use. 

• Check drain covers. Never use a pool or spa with loose, broken, or missing drain covers.  

For more information: 

• Injury and Violence Prevention 

• Holiday Safety – National Safety Council 

• Holiday Safety Tips | Safe Kids Worldwide 

• Child Passenger Safety 

• Guidelines for Healthy and Safe Swimming | Healthy Swimming | CDC  

• Swim Healthy Virginia – Environmental Health