New Resource Connections (The RC) Site Launched
The new site for Resource Connections has launched! With the relaunch we've also rebranded it to call it “The RC” in short. Call it whichever you prefer – we'll know what you mean!
The old site is no longer, but the old URL now automatically redirects to the new. The new URL for The RC is https://therc.vdh.virginia.gov. You’ll find that the new website has a brand-new interface and design. Additionally, the new site uses the Connect 211 functionality like Virginia 211.
VDH staff regularly review and update agency data to ensure accuracy. Most agencies that have an HIV prevention or care funding contract have a requirement in those contracts that they must update their agency’s data in The RC on an annual basis at minimum.
Agencies will not be able to update their own information at this time. It is estimated that this functionality will be restored within the next six months. We will communicate when agency data self-service is restored. A training will also be offered at that time. Until then, any agencies that have outdated information on The RC should request their agency information/data updates to the Disease Prevention Hotline at hiv-stdhotline@vdh.virginia.gov.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced another 12-month extension to the Strengthening STD Prevention and Control for Health Departments (STD PCHD) grant. The extension will cover the period of March 1, 2026, through February 28, 2027.
What’s happening in Virginia?
Mpox cases continue to occur primarily in men. Mpox also disproportionately affects communities of color. Mpox cases have occurred in all five state health regions, with the greatest number of cases reported from Virginia’s Northern and Central health planning regions (82%).
On September 30, 2025, DDP received a surprising notice of award (NoA) for the HIV Medical Monitoring Project (MMP). Prior funding for MMP ended on May 31, 2025, and we were told the grant would not be renewed. Therefore, DDP ended the program and MMP staff were unfortunately laid off. Due to the unexpected nature of this new award, the back date of the project period to 6/1/25, and current federal government shut down, the remainder of the first year, or grant year 1, will be used to recruit staff and re-establish the program. DDP is awaiting further guidance from CDC, which will occur after the resolution of the federal government shutdown.
DIS (Disease Intervention Specialist) Recognition Day was Friday, October 3. This special day is observed nationally each year to promote the special work that our DIS do within our communities. The National Coalition for STD Directors, VDH, and DDP had blog postings for the occasion and promoted or shared posts and graphics on social media.
The Resource Connections website is being relaunched with a fresh new look and a new name — The RC: Resource Connections — on the Connect 211 platform! Along with the updated design, the site will feature a new logo and URL.
DIS are trained public health professionals with varied backgrounds and skill sets. They’re a group of public health specialists who identify, locate, and prevent the transmission of infections. They often have experience in community health, social work, health education, outreach, public health, and lived experiences.
The Virginia Community HIV Planning Group (CHPG) needs new members. The CHPG works with DDP to develop and monitor Virginia’s Integrated HIV Services Plan. Their main goal is to end the HIV epidemic and improve the health of people with HIV. The Plan will guide DDP work over the next five years.
Bulk condom orders are currently on hold while the Department of General Services negotiates with Global Protection to renew its contract with the Commonwealth of Virginia. This situation has extended beyond initial expectations, resulting in temporary shortages of several brands, including non-latex condom options, lubricant, and Trojan Magnum condoms.