As an agency, and as individuals, we value hospitality, responsiveness, accountability, compassion, integrity, and cutting-edge expertise. We are committed to protecting all citizens in the New River Valley at all times, preventing disease, and promoting health and wellness. What is Public Health?
Monkeypox Information
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the New River Health District are responding to an outbreak of monkeypox that has spread across several countries that don’t normally report monkeypox, including the United States. For information on monkeypox in Virginia, please visit the VDH monkeypox website. If you are a healthcare provider, please visit the monkeypox website for healthcare providers.
The New River Health District is working to ensure that residents who have been exposed or are at high risk of being exposed to monkeypox receive a vaccination. If you think you may be at greater risk for exposure to monkeypox, please take a few moments to complete the questionnaire found here:
https://vase.vdh.virginia.gov/vdhapps/f?p=710:5
Please note: this is NOT a preregistration for the vaccine and completing the form does NOT guarantee you will be vaccinated. If you are eligible for the vaccine, a VDH representative will contact you to discuss further. You can also reach out to your local health department with any questions or concerns.
COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Information
Virginia COVID Information Center
If you have specific questions regarding COVID-19, please call your local health department. Normal operating hours of the health department 8am-4:30pm M-F, except state holidays.
COVID testing:
NRHD is phasing out its PCR testing program effective January 1, 2023. All health district locations will offer free rapid tests upon request. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, please DO NOT ENTER the building. Please call your health department and dial 0 to request that a test be brought to your vehicle.
Floyd County: 540-745-2142
Giles County: 540-235-3135
Montgomery County: 540-585-3300
Pulaski County: 540-440-2150
Radford City: 540-267-8255
Testing is available at local pharmacies, urgent cares, and pediatricians’ offices. Please do not go to the emergency room for a COVID-19 test.
At-home rapid tests are available at local pharmacies and online. Because PCR testing can remain positive for 90 days or more after COVID-19 infection, rapid (antigen) tests are more appropriate for current illness. Libraries in the New River Health District are also supplying rapid tests when supplies allow. See details on library distribution.
Please contact the health department if you have any questions about testing.
Who should get tested?
- People who have symptoms of COVID-19 and are at higher risk from COVID should be tested.
- If positive, individuals should discuss with their provider whether any of the currently available treatments are appropriate.
- Anyone with symptoms (fever >100.4, cough, body aches, headache, vomiting/diarrhea) should stay home and self-isolate until at least 24 hours after fever, vomiting, and diarrhea have resolved, and other symptoms are improving. Cough may take weeks to subside.
- Those with severe or worsening symptoms should seek medical care.
COVID-19 Vaccines are Available:
- Visit our Where to get vaccinated page for up-to-date information on how to get your vaccine. Vaccines offer protection against severe illness and hospitalization, which is especially important for those at higher risk from COVID-19.
- We encourage individuals to discuss vaccinations including boosters with their physicians or local health department. A prior history of COVID infection plays a role in that decision-making process.
Now offering flu shots to those 6-months and older. Contact your local health department to schedule an appointment.
New River Health District
The New River Health District is comprised of the counties of Floyd, Giles, Montgomery, Pulaski and the City of Radford, Virginia. District Office headquarters are located in the Montgomery County Health Department in Christiansburg.
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News & Events
Do you rely on a well, spring, or cistern? Do you ever wonder about the quality of your water? Do you want to learn more about taking care of your water system and keeping your water safe? If you answered yes to these questions, the Virginia Household Water Quality Program is sponsoring local drinking water clinics to help you learn more about caring for your private water system. Click here for more information! For information on emergency closings and/or delayed openings: -Call the Montgomery County Health Department at 540-585-3300 -Watch WSLS10 -Listen to Vibe 100, 100.1FM or 610 AM; Q99, 99.1FM; K92, 92.3FM; 94.9 Star Country, 94.9FM; or 960AM News Talk Radio -Visit WSLS10 or WDBJ7