2022 News Releases

December 27, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Updates Reporting Schedule for COVID-19 Dashboards and Other Retirements 

(RICHMOND, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) continues to streamline information on its COVID-19 data dashboards to better highlight current COVID-19 trends in Virginia and inform action. As of December 27, 2022, VDH will report weekly to align with the CDC’s current reporting frequency. The COVID-19 Cases Summary page was updated to better display trends in Virginia. Access to currently available data will be maintained in the Virginia Open Data Portal.  more>>


December 14, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Announces Availability of Bivalent COVID-19 Vaccines for Pediatric Patients Ages Six Months and Older

(RICHMOND, Va.) — Parents of young children in Virginia are now able to seek a free bivalent pediatric COVID-19 vaccine for their children aged six months and older, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced today, following the recommendation of the vaccines by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on December 9. more>>


December 6, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Receives Multi-Million Dollar Grant to Assist Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities

(Richmond, VA) — Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced that it was awarded $9.9 million to assist nine organizations across the Commonwealth with ongoing COVID-19 response in nursing homes and long-term care facilities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provided the funding as part of the Virginia Long-Term Care Infrastructure Pilot Projects (VLIPP). more>>


December 1, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Announces First Death of Person Diagnosed with Monkeypox in the State

(RICHMOND, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is reporting the first death of a person diagnosed with monkeypox, now known as “mpox,” in Virginia. The patient was an adult resident of the Eastern Health Region of Virginia. more>>


November 30, 2022

Virginia Health Officials Announce First Reported Pediatric Flu Death of the 2022–23 Season

(RICHMOND, Va.)Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced the state’s first reported influenza-associated pediatric death for the 2022-23 flu season. Sadly, a child (5-12 years old) in Virginia’s Southwest region died from complications associated with influenza. To protect the family’s privacy, VDH will not provide any further information regarding this death. more>>


November 21, 2022

Virginia Healthcare Community Offers Safety Tips Amid Surge in Flu, Respiratory Virus Cases and Hospitalizations

(RICHMOND, VA) – The Virginia healthcare community is encouraging Virginians who haven’t done so to get vaccinated against flu, get vaccinated or boosted against COVID-19, and to take personal prevention steps as we enter the flu and respiratory illness season. This year’s flu season is already showing early, concerning signs that it may be worse than in recent years. There are also increasing numbers of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases, which may cause serious illness and hospitalization in children and older adults. If these trends continue, this could strain healthcare systems in some communities. more>>


November 15, 2022

2022 GOVERNOR’S EMS AWARD RECIPIENTS ANNOUNCED AT 42ND ANNUAL VIRGINIA EMS SYMPOSIUM

(RICHMOND, Va.) – On Saturday, November 12, the 2022 Governor’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Award recipients were announced during the 42nd Annual Virginia EMS Symposium and Governor’s EMS Awards ceremony in Norfolk, Virginia. These awards, given in Governor Glenn Youngkin’s name, recognize EMS providers and organizations from across the Commonwealth for their outstanding level of excellence and dedication to the EMS system. more>>


November 14, 2022

Virginia Governor Proclaims November as Diabetes Awareness Month                                                                                                                                                                    Proclamation Recognizes American Diabetes Month

(Richmond, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced today that Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has proclaimed November as Diabetes Awareness Month in the Commonwealth. Diabetes is a chronic disease that is the leading cause of kidney failure, lower-limb amputations and adult-onset blindness in the United States. In Virginia, more than 630, 000 people are living with some form of the disease. More than 2.1 million Virginians have prediabetes and most people are unaware that they have the disease. VDH is encouraging Virginians to learn more about diabetes and check their status to see if they’re at risk for the disease. more>>


November 10, 2022

Lake Anna Harmful Algae Bloom Advisories Lifted – 2022 Harmful Algal Response Season Complete

RICHMOND, VA – The North Anna and Pamunkey branches, including Terry’s Run, of Lake Anna in Orange, Louisa and Spotsylvania have experienced a harmful algae bloom (HAB) since July. Results of samples collected October 18 indicated potentially toxic cyanobacteria at acceptable levels at all but the upper North Anna Branch.  A status report containing the updated information may be viewed at Lake Anna Status Reportmore>>


October 30, 2022

You can avoid a fright this Halloween by making sure your trick-or-treaters are safe.

(RICHMOND, Va.) – As little ghosts and goblins prepare to hit the trick-or-treat trails, make sure they do so safely with these tips that we’ve rounded up to help, from choosing costumes and checking candy to hosting a party at home. more>>


October 26, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Announces Novavax COVID-19 Booster Vaccines Are Now Available in the Commonwealth

(RICHMOND, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has announced the immediate availability of a free booster dose of the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine, following authorization by the Food and Drug Administration and recommendation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on October 19. more>>


October 24, 2022

Virginia Department of Health and Virginia Commonwealth University Partner to Launch an Opioid Cost Calculator

RICHMOND, VA — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Center on Society and Health collaborated on the development of an opioid cost calculator. The calculator presents cost estimates of how much the opioid epidemic impacts Virginians in multiple categories: lost labor, healthcare, crime, household costs, state costs, and federal costs. more>>


October 24, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Continues to Make Changes to COVID-19 Dashboards To Streamline Data

(RICHMOND, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) continues to streamline information on its COVID-19 data dashboards to better highlight current COVID-19 trends in Virginia and inform action. As of October 24, 2022, VDH retired several COVID-19 data dashboards and updated others.  No access to any currently available data is being removed, rather the dashboards are being streamlined and consolidated. more>>


October 24, 2022

State Health Officials Urge Virginians to Ready for Increase in Respiratory Illnesses through Vaccination and Practicing Preventive Healthy Habits

(RICHMOND, Va.) – Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced that this year’s flu season is already showing concerning, early signs that it may be worse than in recent years. More people are seeking care in hospitals and urgent care centers for influenza-like illness than at this point in previous years, particularly young children aged 0-4 years. Virginia health officials encourage everyone aged six months and older to get a flu vaccine this fall, with rare exception. more>> 


 

October 17, 2022

The Virginia Department of Health and the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association Launch Community Health Data Portal

(Richmond, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association (VHHA) have launched a new portal that will dramatically improve access to health data for public health, health care providers, and community partners. more>>


October 17, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Announces Availability of Bivalent COVID-19 Booster Vaccines for Pediatric Patients

(RICHMOND, Va.) — Parents of young children in Virginia are now able to seek a free bivalent pediatric COVID-19 booster vaccine for their children aged five years and older, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced today, following the recommendation of the booster vaccines by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on October 12. more>>


September 30, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Urges Caution In Advance of Severe Weather

(RICHMOND, Va.) — The remnants of Tropical Storm Ian are expected to impact areas of the state beginning Friday, September 30 through the weekend. This storm could create dangerous conditions in creeks, rivers, and low lying areas along the coast. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) reminds people to take precautions to be prepared for severe weather and once the sun comes out, be aware of potential health risks before you participate in recreational water activities. more>>


September 26, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Further Expands Eligibility Criteria for Those Seeking Monkeypox Vaccination in the Commonwealth

(RICHMOND, Va.) Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced a further expansion of eligibility for JYNNEOS, the monkeypox vaccine. Newly eligible for vaccination in Virginia are persons of any gender or sexual orientation living with HIV/AIDS or who have been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection in the past three months. more>>


September 16, 2022

Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, Division of Death Prevention Receives Grant to Build Partnerships with Stakeholders to Address Maternal Mortality in Virginia

(Richmond, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) announced today that Dr. Ryan Diduk-Smith, Ph.D, MPH, CHES director of the Division of Death Prevention has received a grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to increase surveillance efforts and create a partnership with the Virginia Neonatal Perinatal Collaborative (VNPC) to further address maternal mortality in Virginia. more>>


September 13, 2022

Harmful Algae Bloom Advisory Update: Advisory Continues for Upper, Middle, and Lower Sections of North Anna and Pamunkey Branches (including Terry’s Run) of Lake Anna
Public Advised to Avoid Water Contact with Upper, Middle, and Lower sections of Lake Anna above Route 208 in Orange, Louisa and Spotsylvania Counties

(RICHMOND, Va.) – The North Anna and Upper Pamunkey branches, including Terry’s Run, of Lake Anna in Orange, Louisa and Spotsylvania counties continue to experience a harmful algae bloom (HAB). The public is advised to avoid contact with specific areas of the lake until algae concentrations return to acceptable levels. more>>


September 7, 2022

Bivalent COVID-19 Booster Vaccines by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna Now Available 

(RICHMOND, Va.) — Effective immediately, eligible residents of Virginia are able to schedule appointments with their healthcare providers to receive the new, free COVID-19 bivalent booster vaccinations, manufactured by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna. The new updated boosters are targeted specifically at the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of the Omicron variant that initially emerged in the United States in November 2021. more>>


August 25, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Expands Eligibility Criteria for Those Seeking Monkeypox Vaccination in the Commonwealth

(RICHMOND, Va.) The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) today announced it is expanding eligibility for JYNNEOS, the monkeypox vaccine, to align with the current vaccination criteria laid out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). more>>


August 5, 2022

Harmful Algae Bloom Advisory Expanded for Lake Anna to north of Route 208;
In Orange, Louisa and Spotsylvania Counties
Public Advised to Avoid Water Contact with Upper, Middle and Lower sections of Lake Anna above Rt. 208

(RICHMOND, Va.) – All portions of Pamunkey Branch, North Anna Branch, Lake Anna State Park Beach, as well as the Main Branch of Lake Anna from the “Splits” to the confluence of Pigeon Run above Route 208 in Orange, Louisa and Spotsylvania counties are experiencing a harmful algae bloom (HAB). The public is advised to avoid contact with specific areas of the lake until algae concentrations return to acceptable levels. more>>


August 3, 2022

Health Officials Report Virginia’s First Pediatric Flu Death of the 2021–22 Season

(RICHMOND, Va.) – The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) reports the state’s first influenza-associated pediatric death for the 2021-22 flu season. A child (under 5 years old) in Virginia’s Central region has died from complications associated with influenza. To protect the family’s privacy, VDH will not provide any further information regarding this death. more>>


July 22, 2022

Statement from Virginia State Vaccination Coordinator Christy Gray on the CDC Recommendation of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine for Adults Aged 18 Years and Older

(RICHMOND, Va.) — Virginians now have a fourth vaccine choice when they’re seeking a COVID-19 vaccine following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) giving its approval on July 19 for administration of the two-dose Novavax COVID-19 vaccine to adults aged 18 years and older. more>>


July 21, 2022

Virginians Are Reminded to Stay Safe During Excessive Heat: Advisories and Warnings Issued this Week

(RICHMOND, Va.) — This week, portions of the state have experienced excessive heat and humidity prompting advisories and warnings to be issued. Temperatures have reached the mid- to upper 90s, and are expected to be near 100 degrees this weekend. The heat index, describing how the temperature feels to the human body, may be in excess of 110 degrees. These conditions are dangerous to any person outdoors, and especially so for older adults, young children, and people with existing medical conditions, such as heart disease. Heat-related illnesses can also impact those with outdoor jobs or individuals participating in recreational activities, most notably during the hottest times of the day. more>>


July 19, 2022

Three Digit 988 Dialing Code for National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Launches in Virginia
National transition to 988 offers once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to strengthen and expand the existing Lifeline.

(RICHMOND, Va.) – The Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) and Virginia Department of Health (VDH) today announced the successful transition of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline to the three digit 988 number. In 2020, Congress designated the new 988 dialing code to operate through the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s (1-800-273-8255) network of over 200 locally operated and funded crisis centers across the country. more>>


July 15, 2022

Harmful Algae Bloom Advisory Issued for Upper and Middle Sections of North Anna and Pamunkey Branches (including Terry’s Run) of Lake Anna; In Orange, Louisa and Spotsylvania Counties
Public Advised to Avoid Water Contact with Upper and Middle sections of Lake Anna above Rt. 208

(RICHMOND, Va.) – The North Anna and Upper Pamunkey Branches, including Terry’s Run, of Lake Anna in Orange, Louisa and Spotsylvania counties are experiencing a harmful algae bloom (HAB). The public is advised to avoid contact with specific areas of the lake until algae concentrations return to acceptable levels. Some harmful algae, called cyanobacteria, can cause skin rash and gastrointestinal illnesses, such as upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The area to avoid can be seen on an interactive Harmful Algal Bloom map. A status report containing the updated advisory areas may be viewed at Lake Anna HAB Status Report 7.15.22. more>>


July 14, 2022

During Tracking Awareness Week, Virginia Department of Health Receives Grant to Create New Virginia Environmental Health Tracking Program

(RICHMOND, Va) – The Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) announced today, during Tracking Awareness Week, that it received a grant from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to create an environmental epidemiology program. more>>


July 14, 2022

Virginia Reports Additional Presumed Case of Monkeypox
Individual is a Resident of Central Virginia

(RICHMOND, Va.) – Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced a presumed case of monkeypox in a Virginia resident in the Central region of Virginia, bringing the total number of cases in Virginia to 40. Testing was conducted at the Department of General Services Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services. more>>


July 11, 2022

Virginia Reports Additional Presumed Case of Monkeypox: Individual is a Resident of Northwestern Virginia

(RICHMOND, Va.) – Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced a presumed case of monkeypox in a Virginia resident in the Northwestern region of Virginia, bringing the total number of cases in Virginia to 27. Testing was conducted at the Department of General Services Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services. more>>


July 8, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Launches Lead Testing in Drinking Water at Virginia Schools and Child Care Centers

(RICHMOND, Va.) – Today, the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) Office of Drinking Water (ODW) announced the launch of a statewide voluntary Lead Testing in Drinking Water at Schools and Child Care Centers in Virginia program. This free program will test for lead in drinking water in select Virginia public schools and child care centers. more>>


June 30, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Launches Firearm Injuries in Virginia: Emergency Department Visits Dashboard

(RICHMOND, Va.) – Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) launched a new data dashboard on firearm injuries in Virginia showing the number and rate of emergency department (ED) visits from 2016 to 2022. The dashboard shows firearm injury data by year, health district, age group, sex, and race/ethnicity across Virginia. more>>


June 29, 2022

Virginia Reports Additional Presumed Cases of Monkeypox: Individuals are Residents in Northern, Eastern and Southwestern Virginia

(Richmond, VA) — Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced five additional presumed monkeypox cases in Virginia residents, bringing the total number of monkeypox cases reported in Virginia to eight since May 2022. Testing was conducted at the Department of General Services Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services. more>>


June 24, 2022

Virginia Reports Second Presumed Case of Monkeypox: Individual is Resident in Northern Virginia

(Richmond, VA) — Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced the second presumed monkeypox case in a Virginia resident. Testing was completed at the Department of General Services Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services and confirmed Orthopoxvirus infection. Confirmatory Monkeypox virus testing will be performed at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. more>>


June 24, 2022

Statement from Virginia State Vaccination Coordinator Christy Gray on the Recommendation of the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine for Children, Adolescents Ages 6 Years Through 17 Years

(RICHMOND, Va.) — Virginia parents and guardians of older children and adolescents now have a second choice of a COVID-19 vaccine.

On June 24, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) gave its approval to a recommendation of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for children and adolescents aged 6 years through 17 years. That approval came after the CDC’s independent panel of experts, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), recommended the administration of the vaccine on June 23, following the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) granting of an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) on June 17. more>>


June 18, 2022

Statement from Virginia State Vaccination Coordinator Christy Gray on the Recommendations of the Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna COVID-19 Vaccines for Children 6 Months Through 4 Years of Age and 6 Months through 5 Years of Age, Respectively

(RICHMOND, Va.) — All Virginians from the age of six months and older are eligible now to get a free COVID-19 vaccine, according to the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), following the unanimous recommendations on June 18 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna pediatric vaccines for the youngest of children. more>>


June 16, 2022

Statement from Virginia State Health Commissioner Colin M. Greene, MD., MPH on Updates
to Virginia Department of Health COVID-19 Quarantine and Isolation Guidance

(RICHMOND, VA) – The following statement is from State Health Commissioner Colin M. Greene, MD, MPH, in regards to recent updates to Virginia Department of Health (VDH) guidance on COVID-19 isolation and quarantine.

“As COVID continues its progression from an acute pandemic to a more endemic state, we must continually reassess our recommendations to the public and our fellow agencies, considering not only potential disease effects, but also unintended non-clinical consequences of any restrictions. CDC evidence suggests that well over 75% of children possess post-infection immunity to COVID-19, in addition to any vaccine-derived protection. Adult rates of immunity, between vaccination and post-infection, likely exceeds 90%. Further, there is evidence that post-infection immunity may be effective for 6 months or longer. It is time to revisit some of our practices for groups that are at low risk for severe COVID-19 disease, especially those whose side effect is a significant limitation of access to daycare, school, or work. more>>


June 14, 2022

UPDATE: VDH is applying for waivers and is awaiting approval.

Virginia Department of Health’s Child and Adult Care Food Program Granted Extensions by USDA Food and Nutrition Service

RICHMOND, VA – Today, the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) announced the release of an extension to several nationwide waivers to help providers in the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) to continue to meet the nutritional needs of child and adult participants during the public health emergency caused by COVID-19. more>>


May 26, 2022

Virginia Reports First Presumed Case of Monkeypox
Individual is Resident in Northern Virginia Who Recently Traveled Internationally

UPDATE May 27, 2022: The CDC has confirmed that the Virginia patient tested positive for monkeypox. For more information, visit VDH’s Monkeypox Surveillance and Investigation webpage, here

(Richmond, VA) — Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced the first presumed monkeypox case in a Virginia resident. The initial testing was completed at the Department of General Services Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services. VDH is awaiting confirmatory test results from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. more>>


May 24, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Call Center Changing Hours on May 31

(RICHMOND, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health today announced that its statewide Vaccinate Virginia Call Center, which is reached at 877-VAX-IN-VA, (877) 829-4682, will operate with new hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., beginning May 31. The center is currently operating from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. more>>


May 24, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Offers Guidance During Nationwide Infant Formula Shortage 

RICHMOND, VA – Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) issued guidance in direct response to inquiries from parents and caregivers regarding the nationwide infant formula shortage. more>>


May 23, 2022

The Virginia Department of Health in Collaboration with ESO Launches First-Ever Virginia Stroke Registry
Statewide View of Stroke Data will Improve Care for all People in Virginia 

(RICHMOND, Va.) – The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) in partnership with ESO, today announced the launch of the first-ever Virginia Stroke Registry. ESO is the leading data and software company serving emergency medical services, fire departments, hospitals, state and federal agencies. more>>


May 19, 2022

Statement from Virginia State Vaccination Coordinator Christy Gray on the CDC Expanding Eligibility of COVID-19 Boosters for Children 5–11 Years of Age and Strengthening Recommendation for Second COVID-19 Boosters

(RICHMOND, Va.) — Children in Virginia, ages 511 years, are now recommended for a Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 booster if they completed their primary series of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine five months ago or more. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has given the green light to providers in the Commonwealth to begin administering the booster dose immediately to eligible children. more>> 


May 16, 2022

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES WEEK RECOGNIZES VIRGINIA’S EMS PROVIDERS COMMITMENT TO
PROTECTING THE HEALTH OF ALL PEOPLE IN VIRGINIA
May 15–21 is National EMS Week; May 18 is EMS for Children Day

(RICHMOND, Va.) – During the COVID-19 pandemic, Virginia’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers have been challenged beyond measure and continue to provide emergency care with the utmost expertise and professionalism. Last year, EMS providers responded to more than 1.59 million calls for help in Virginia, which represents approximately 4,360 incidents per day. more>>


May 16, 2022

Virginia Department of Health To Retire Several COVID-19 Dashboards
Goal is to Streamline Data Presentation, Conform to CDC Data Reporting

(RICHMOND, VA) — On Thursday, May 19, four Virginia Department of Health (VDH) COVID-19 dashboards will be retired from public view, along with two data landing pages. more>>


April 28, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Launches New Epidemiology Reports

RICHMOND, VA – The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is launching a new section on the Data Portal page on the VDH website called Epidemiology Reports. The first two reports to be added to the Epidemiology Reports sections are Self-Harm and Suicide Among Virginia Youth Aged 9-18 Years, 2015-2021 and Alcohol-Related Death in Virginia, 2016-2020. more>>


April 27, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Launches New Online Vital Records Application

RICHMOND, VA – In an effort to increase accessibility and convenience, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has launched a new online Vital Records Application.  This application can be used to request certified copies of birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates. more>>


April 27, 2022

2022 County Health Rankings Show How Virginia Continues to Improve
Report ranks localities in Virginia by health outcomes and health factors

(Richmond, Va.) — Falls Church city ranks as the healthiest locality in Virginia and Petersburg city ranks as the least, according to new County Health Rankings data published today by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute. The report ranks localities in Virginia by health outcomes and the underlying factors that influence health. The health rankings are available at www.countyhealthrankings.org. more>>


April 7, 2022

Governor Glenn Youngkin Announces More Than Seven Million Virginians Have Received One Dose of a COVID-19 Vaccine 

(RICHMOND, Va.) — Governor Glenn Youngkin announced today that more than seven million Virginians have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine since the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) launched the state’s vaccination campaign in late December 2020. VDH reached this vaccination milestone as we celebrate National Public Health Week. more>>


March 30, 2022

Statement from Virginia State Vaccination Coordinator Christy Gray on the Recommendation of Second COVID-19 Booster Dose for Persons 50 Years and Older, Immunocompromised Individuals and Johnson & Johnson Recipients

(RICHMOND, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health is announcing that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its guidance for COVID-19 vaccination. Second booster doses may now be provided to certain populations in the Commonwealth. more>>


March 15, 2022

Virginia Earns National Recognition as One of the States Best Prepared for Public Health Emergencies
Two Years into the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Commonwealth is Again Ranked in the Top Tier of States in Trust for America’s Health – Ready or Not 2022 Annual Report on Public Health Emergency Preparedness

RICHMOND, VA – For several years running, Virginia has been recognized among the states best prepared to respond to public health emergencies. That trend continues in the latest report by Trust for America’s Health, Ready or Not 2022: Protecting the Public’s Health from Diseases, Disasters and Bioterrorism, which again places Virginia in the top tier of states. The report measures state levels of preparedness to respond to a wide range of health emergencies including infectious outbreaks, natural disasters, and manmade events. more>>


March 10, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Makes Changes to COVID-19 Dashboards To Streamline Data 

(RICHMOND, Va.)—  The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced today that several changes are being made to its COVID-19 dashboards. The changes are intended to streamline the information that is most helpful in tracking COVID-19 and its impacts on Virginia at this point in the pandemic. These changes will better highlight current COVID-19 trends in Virginia and inform action. more>>


 February 24, 2022

Abbott Voluntarily Recalls Three Brands of Powdered Infant Formula Due to Possible Cronobacter Contamination
Similac, Alimentum and EleCare Infant Formulas Part of Recall

(RICHMOND, VA.) – Abbott, the infant formula manufacturer that is provided through Virginia Women, Infants and Children (WIC), announced a proactive, voluntary recall of some powdered Similac, Alimentum, or EleCare infant formulas manufactured in Sturgis, Michigan. Virginia WIC is working to make all participating families aware of the disruption. more>>


February 4, 2022

Statement from Virginia State Vaccination Coordinator Christy Gray on Full Licensure of Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine

(RICHMOND, Va.) – The following statement is from state vaccination coordinator Christy Gray, M.P.H., director of the Division of Immunization in the Office of Epidemiology.  “The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is pleased that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decided to grant full licensure to the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for persons ages 18 years and older and that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended the approved vaccine. This action comes after rigorous review and study by scientists and other researchers at the FDA and the CDC.” more>>


February 4, 2022

Omicron Surge in Cases Leads to Increase in COVID-19-Associated Deaths Being Added to the Virginia Department of Health COVID-19 Dashboards

(RICHMOND, Va.) — The recent surge in COVID-19 cases due to the Omicron variant resulted in an increase in COVID-19-associated deaths, and the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is beginning to observe these expected increases in death certificates received. more>>


January 25, 2022

VDH Refocuses COVID-19 Investigation Efforts to Target Congregate Settings

(Richmond, Va.) — Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced it is changing from attempting to investigate every case of COVID-19 and trace all contacts to focusing on follow-up of outbreaks and cases in high risk settings. This response is more effective when a virus spreads very easily and quickly and many infected people do not have symptoms. more>>


January 19, 2022

Virginia Department of Health To Delay Opening of Some Vaccination and Testing Centers and Close Early Due to Winter Storms

(RICHMOND, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) will delay the opening of some Community Vaccination Centers (CVCs) and Community Testing Centers (CTCs) on Thursday, January 20, 2022, and close all vaccination and testing centers early on Thursday and Friday for the safety of the public and staff as winter storms approach. more>>


January 16, 2022

Virginia Department of Health To Close Some Vaccination and Testing Centers Monday, Others To Delay Opening Due to Weather

(RICHMOND, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is closing some vaccination and testing centers and will delay the opening of others on Monday, January 17, 2022 due to inclement weather. Centers in two cities will remain open. more>>


January 14, 2022

Virginia Department of Health To Close Community Testing Centers Sunday as Winter Storm Approaches

(RICHMOND, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is closing its Community Testing Centers (CTCs) on Sunday, January 16, with the safety of the public and staff in mind as a winter storm expected Sunday could bring snow to much of the state. more>>


January 14, 2022

Virginia Department of Health’s Award-Winning COVIDWISE Exposure Notifications App Hits Record Level of Use

(RICHMOND, Va.) — COVIDWISE, Virginia’s COVID-19 exposure notifications app is being used by a record number of Virginians, remaining a vital part of the Commonwealth’s pandemic response toolkit. More than 2.5 million Virginians are now using COVIDWISE.  The app accounts for 51 percent of all users.  COVIDWISE Express, an app-less version exclusively for iPhone users, was made available in February 2021.  Express makes up approximately 49% of all users. more>>


January 7, 2022

Virginia Department of Health To Reopen Community Vaccination Centers Closed Friday By Inclement Weather

(RICHMOND, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced today that its Community Vaccination Centers (CVCs) closed on Friday due to inclement weather will reopen on Saturday, January 8, 2022. All CVCs will be open on Saturday with regular hours, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.  Individuals who need to reschedule their appointment can visit vase.vdh.virginia.gov. more>>


January 7, 2022

Virginia Department of Health Temporarily Scales Back Call Center Operations in Office of Vital Records as Pandemic Causes Staffing Shortages

(RICHMOND, Va.) – The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced today that the Office of Vital Records (OVR) will be temporarily scaling back operations of its Call Center (804-662-6200) public call-in line, due to staffing shortages and COVID-19 infections affecting its employees. more>>


January 6, 2022

Virginia Department of Health To Close Five Community Vaccination Centers Friday Due to Expected Inclement Weather

(RICHMOND, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is closing five of its Community Vaccination Centers (CVCs) on Friday, January 7, 2022, due to expected inclement weather with some areas of the state expected to see several inches of snow.  Individuals with appointments will be notified of the cancellation and can visit vase.vdh.virginia.gov to reschedule. more>>


January 5, 2022

Statement from State Vaccination Coordinator Christy Gray on CDC Endorsement of Strengthened Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Booster Dose Recommendations for 12–17 Year Olds, All Pfizer Boosters After Five Months and Third Doses for Immunocompromised 5–11 Year Olds

(RICHMOND, Va.) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is immediately adopting the following recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). more>>


January 5, 2022 (revised Jan. 25, 2021)

Virginia to Outfit all Advanced Life Support level EMS Agencies in the Commonwealth with Nationally Renowned Handtevy System
Handtevy is a leader in pediatric emergency technology and offers a suite of groundbreaking resuscitation tools and systems.

(Richmond, Va.) – After an extensive evaluation process, the Virginia Department of Health, Office of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) has chosen to offer the Handtevy suite of lifesaving tools to Advanced Life Support (ALS) level EMS agencies in the state. Handtevy is a national leader in pediatric emergency technology, and their partnership with the Virginia Office of EMS will provide the groundbreaking Handtevy resuscitation system to all EMS agencies in the Commonwealth. more>>


January 4, 2022

VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH COMMUNITY VACCINATION CENTERS TO REOPEN WEDNESDAY

(RICHMOND, Va.) —  The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) will reopen all of its Community Vaccination Centers (CVCs) on Wednesday, January 5, 2022. Individuals with appointments will be notified of the cancellation and anyone who needs to reschedule an appointment due to icy roads or other concerns can visit vase.vdh.virginia.gov to reschedule. more>>


January 3, 2022

VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH COMMUNITY VACCINATION CENTERS TO BE CLOSED TUESDAY DUE TO SNOW AND EXPECTED FREEZING TEMPERATURES

(RICHMOND, Va.)—  The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) will again close all of its Community Vaccination Centers (CVCs) on Tuesday, January 4, 2022, as some areas of the state deal with several inches of snow and expected freezing temperatures overnight.  Individuals with appointments will be notified of the cancellation and can visit vase.vdh.virginia.gov to reschedule.  more>>


January 2, 2022

VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH COMMUNITY VACCINATION CENTERS TO BE CLOSED MONDAY DUE TO EXPECTED INCLEMENT WEATHER

(RICHMOND, Va.)— The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is closing all of its  Community Vaccination Centers (CVCs) on Monday, January 3, 2022, due to expected inclement weather with some areas of the state expected to see several inches of snow.  Individuals with appointments will be notified of the cancellation and can visit vase.vdh.virginia.gov to reschedule. more>>