2026 Regional News Releases

March 16, 2026

Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts Partner with Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail to Improve Health Literacy for Incarcerated Individuals

WILLIAMSBURG, Va – The Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts (HPHD) and the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail (VPRJ) have launched a partnership to provide health literacy for jailed individuals through an eight-week education program. more>>


March 13, 2026

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health Districts Says Healthy Choices Can Build a Healthier Community
March is National Nutrition Month in Virginia

WARRENTON, Va. – One in four people are obese in the United States. In Virginia, it’s closer to one in three (32%). 2024, approximately 32% of Virginia adults were classified as obese. March is National Nutrition Month, and the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District wants to remind you that nutrition plays a crucial role in your overall health and well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), only about 12% of adults reported eating the recommended 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day. more>>


March 12, 2026

Southside Health District Wants You to Be Stroke Smart
Join us for a Free Program

BOYDTON, Va. – The Southside Health District is teaching stroke detection and prevention at the Boydton Public Library.  Community members are invited to attend “Be Stroke Smart,” a free educational session focused on stroke awareness, on Thursday, March 19th, from 2:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Boydton Public Library, located at 1294 Jefferson Street, Boydton, VA 23917. more>>


March 12, 2026

Rabid Raccoon Discovered in East Great Bridge

CHESAPEAKE, Va. –  On March 4, 2026, a resident on Fordsmere Road in the Woodards Mill neighborhood of Chesapeake discovered a juvenile raccoon in the vicinity. The resident reported the raccoon to a local animal rescue organization. The raccoon was subsequently captured and transported to a local veterinarian. Testing confirmed the raccoon to be rabies positive. No animal or human encounters have been reported. more>>


March 11, 2026

Central Virginia Health District Confirms Three Rabid Animals

LYNCHBURG, Va. – The Central Virginia Health District has received confirmation of three rabid animals located in the district between March 6 and March 9, including a rabid raccoon on Crestview Drive in the Forest area of Bedford County. Also, two rabid skunks have been reported in Campbell County, one on Suburban Road and another on Bethany Road. All the rabid animals had known or suspected contact with dogs. There is no known human exposure among the three incidents. more>>


March 11, 2026

Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts Urge You to Plan Ahead for Spring Severe Weather
Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 9-13

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. As spring approaches, warmer temperatures return — and so does the risk of severe weather. During Severe Weather Awareness Week, observed March 9-13, the Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts (HPHD) urge you to plan ahead before storms strike. more>>


March 11, 2026

Chesapeake Health Department Urges You to Plan Ahead for Spring Severe Weather
Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 9-13

CHESAPEAKE, Va. As spring approaches, warmer temperatures return — and so does the risk of severe weather. During Severe Weather Awareness Week, observed March 9-13, the Chesapeake Health Department urges you to plan ahead before storms strike. more>>


March 11, 2026

Protect Your Body’s Engine
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Promotes Diabetes Prevention During National Kidney Month

WARRENTON, Va. – If you think about your body as a car, your kidneys would be your oil filter and fuel pump combined. Just as a car needs clean oil to keep the engine from seizing up, your body needs the kidneys to constantly clean your blood. They remove waste and toxins, so your other organs run smoothly. Kidneys also maintain the right fluid balance and pressure so blood flows properly. Diabetes is like putting the wrong fuel in your car year after year. Eventually the damage catches up to you. more>>


March 10, 2026

Cumberland Plateau & LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge You to Plan Ahead for Spring Severe Weather
Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 9-13

WISE, Va. – As spring approaches, warmer temperatures return — and so does the risk of severe weather. During Severe Weather Awareness Week, observed March 9-13, the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge you to plan ahead before storms strike. more>>


March 10, 2026

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Highlights REVIVE! Training During National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week

WARRENTON, Va.– During National Drug and Alcohol Facts week the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District is highlighting the importance of overdose prevention by encouraging community members to participate in free REVIVE! training. more>>


March 10, 2026

Central Shenandoah Health District Welcomes New Health Director
Xavier Crockett Takes on District Leadership

STAUNTON, Va. The Virginia Department of Health welcomes Xavier Crockett as their newest health director for the Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD). more>>


March 9, 2026

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Health Department Urges Virginians to Get Informed and Vaccinated
March is National HPV Awareness Month.

WARRENTON, Va. — This month, the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Health Department highlights the importance of preventing Human Papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers and diseases through screening, vaccination, and education. more>>


March 9, 2026

RHHD Encourages Severe Weather Awareness
March 9 – 13 is Severe Weather Awareness Week

RICHMOND, Va. — Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage residents to protect themselves and their families by making preparations for severe weather. March and April are traditionally the most active months for tornadoes in Virginia. Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 9 – 13. more>>


March 6, 2026

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Encourages Healthy Behaviors to Prevent Colon Cancer
March is National Colon Cancer Awareness Month

WARRENTON, Va. – Colorectal cancer is one of the top three cancers diagnosed in Virginia. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District strives to protect the health of its residents by providing those preventative strategies that may serve to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like colon cancer. more>>


March 6, 2026

RHHD Highlights Women's Health Services for International Women's Day

RICHMOND, Va. —Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) commemorate International Women’s Day on March 8 by highlighting services for women offered at RHHD clinics, offices, and Resource Centers. more>>


March 5, 2026

VDH Partially Lifts Potomac River Recreational Water Advisory
Advisory Remains in Place North of Chain Bridge

RICHMOND, Va. – Effectively immediately, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is partially lifting the recreational water advisory for the portion of the Potomac River from the Route 120 Chain Bridge to the Governor Harry W. Nice Memorial Bridge (Route 301) in King George County. The advisory remains in place upstream, from the American Legion Memorial Bridge (I-495) to the Route 120 Chain Bridge. more>>


March 4, 2026

Virginia Health Officials Investigating a Potential Measles Exposure in Southwest Region
Virginia Department of Health is Working to Identify People Who Are at Risk

RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia Department of Health was notified of a confirmed case of measles that traveled through the Southwest Region on Monday, March 2. The person is a resident of another state who recently traveled internationally. To protect the patient’s privacy, VDH will not provide any additional information about the patient. Health officials are coordinating an effort to identify people who might have been exposed. more>>


March 2, 2026

Regional Partners Unite to Produce 1,300 Quarts of Venison Soup for Local Families

FARMVILLE, Va.- A strong spirit of teamwork was on display this week at the Prince Edward County Cannery. Community partners came together to prepare and can 1,300 quarts of venison soup for families who are food insecure. more>>


March 2, 2026

Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts and Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board Celebrate Partnership

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – The Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts (HPHD) and the Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board (HNNCSB) are proud to announce their partnership in HNNCSB’s Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Mobile Unit. more>>


February 26, 2026

Real Love Respects
RHHD Highlights Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

RICHMOND, Va. – February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Richmond and Henrico Health Districts remind teens and the community what love is. Love should feel safe and supportive, not controlling or frightening. more>>


February 25, 2026

Crater Health District Encourages Healthy Dental Habits Among Children
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month

PETERSBURG, Va. – The Crater Health District reminds parents, guardians and caregivers to begin teaching young children about the importance of good dental health habits. more>>


February 24, 2026

Stray Black Cat Tests Positive for Rabies in Hopewell City

HOPEWELL, Va - The Crater Health District has received confirmation that a stray black cat has tested positive for the rabies virus. The cat was involved in multiple incidents of bites and scratches near the 2400 block of Oaklawn Blvd and Crestline Blvd during February 21 - 22, 2026. The cat is described as a female black cat with missing fur on the top of its head, weighing 6-8lbs. The Hopewell Health Department/Crater Health District and the Hopewell Animal Service Unit encourage animal owners to confirm that all pet vaccinations are current and report any stray animals. more>>


February 20, 2026

Alexandria Shares Update on Potomac River Recreational Water Advisory

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Alexandria Health Department (AHD) would like to update our community on the recreational water advisory issued by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH). Alexandria Health Department continues to advise residents to avoid water activities in the river. We will continue to communicate any updates or changes, and we continue to share questions and concerns we receive with state officials. more>>


February 20, 2026

Crater Health District Gives Tips to Combat Substance Use Disorder This Winter

PETERSBURG, Va. – Winter is often a time of reflection and resolution, but for some, it’s a time when substance use increases. Crater Health District (CHD) reminds the community that substance use disorder (SUD) is a critical issue highlighted during this time of year, particularly as individuals and communities set intentions for improvement and recovery. more>>


February 20, 2026

Alexandria Health Department Shares Additional Details of Northern Virginia Measles Exposure

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – On February 19, Alexandria Health Department (AHD) shared details about potential exposures to measles in northern Virginia, including an exposure at an office building in Alexandria. AHD is now sharing additional details by listing specific locations that were potentially affected at that office building. more>>


February 19, 2026

Alexandria Health Department Shares Details of Northern Virginia Measles Exposure

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is advising residents about potential exposures to measles in northern Virginia, including an exposure in Alexandria. The patients are adults who recently traveled together domestically. Health officials are coordinating an effort to identify people who might have been exposed. more>>


February 19, 2026

Virginia Health Officials Investigating Two Confirmed Measles Cases in Northern Virginia
Virginia Department of Health is Working to Identify People Who Are at Risk

RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia Department of Health is reporting two confirmed cases of measles in residents of Northern Virginia. The patients are adults who recently traveled together domestically. To protect the patients’ privacy, VDH will not provide any additional information about the patients. Health officials are coordinating an effort to identify people who might have been exposed. more>>


February 17, 2026

Arlington Drinking Water Safe; Avoid Activity in the Potomac River

ARLINGTON, Va. – Arlington continues to monitor the recent sewage spills in the Potomac River, while noting that the County’s drinking water remains safe, regularly tested, and held to the highest state and federal standards. more>>


February 17, 2026

Skunk Tests Positive for Rabies in Southampton County

SOUTHAMPTON COUNTY, Va. – The Southampton County Health Department is alerting the public that a skunk tested positive for rabies. The skunk was taken from the 2200 block of Story Station Road in Courtland. Health officials consider skunks high-risk animals for rabies. more>>


February 16, 2026

Alexandria Health Department Shares Details of Northern Virginia Measles Exposure

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is advising residents about potential exposures to measles in Virginia's Northern Region.  Exposed people are encouraged to fill out a short survey. The patient is an adult who recently traveled internationally. more>>


February 16, 2026

Virginia Health Officials Investigating Confirmed Measles Case in Northern Region
Virginia Department of Health is Working to Identify People Who Are at Risk

RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia Department of Health is reporting a confirmed case of measles in a resident of Northern Virginia. The patient is an adult who recently traveled internationally. To protect the patient’s privacy, VDH will not provide any additional information about the patient. Health officials are coordinating an effort to identify people who might have been exposed. more>>


February 13, 2026

Love Safely This Valentine’s Day
Get Free Condoms from the Crater Health District

PETERSBURG, Va.– It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day is also National Condom Day! One of the simplest ways to show you care is to protect the health of those you love. The Crater Health District (CHD) provides free condoms to support safer and healthier sexual relationships. more>>


February 13, 2026

VDH Issues Recreational Water Advisory for the Potomac River
Virginia Residents Advised to Avoid Contact with Contaminated Water

RICHMOND, Va. – Due to reports of sewage spills in the Potomac River and the anticipated timeline for repairs, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is issuing a recreational water advisory for Virginia residents. For the safety of people and pets, VDH is advising Virginia residents to avoid recreational water activities in the Potomac River, such as swimming, wading, tubing, white-water canoeing or kayaking, where full-body submersion is more likely to occur. more>>


February 13, 2026

Love Safely This Valentine’s Day
Get Free Condoms from Richmond and Henrico Health Districts

RICHMOND, Va.– It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day is also National Condom Day! One of the simplest ways to show you care is to protect the health of those you love. Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) provide free condoms to support safer and healthier sexual relationships. more>>


February 13, 2026

Chesterfield Health District Shares the Importance of Blood Pressure Screening
February is American Heart Month

CHESTERFIELD, Va. – February is American Heart Month. Chesterfield Health District reminds you to make sure you know your blood pressure numbers to prevent your risk of heart disease and stroke. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in Virginia. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. more>>


February 12, 2026

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Offers Tips to Help Reduce Cancer Risks
February is National Cancer Prevention Month

WARRENTON, Va. – The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District is dedicated to protecting the health of its residents by promoting healthy lifestyle choices that serve to combat chronic diseases like cancer. Three of the top four cancers diagnosed in Virginia (breast, lung, and colorectal) are linked to habits that could be modified or steps that could be taken to help prevent the disease. more>>


February 11, 2026

Cat Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk

SUFFOLK, Va. – The Suffolk Health Department is alerting the public that a cat tested positive for rabies. The cat was taken from the 100 block of Robertson Street in the Whaleyville area of Suffolk to a veterinary clinic for evaluation. Due to the extent of its symptoms and health condition, the cat was humanely euthanized and tested for rabies. more>>


February 11, 2026

Sepsis: The Silent Threat
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health Department Urges Community Awareness During Sepsis Survivor Week

WARRENTON, Va. – The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health Department is urging the community to learn about sepsis during Sepsis Survivor Week, February 8 to 14. Sepsis is a critical public health issue that can strike anyone and require prompt action. It is the body’s extreme response to an infection. Untreated, sepsis can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and even death. As many as 60% of sepsis survivors suffer from mental, physical, and/or emotional challenges. more>>


February 10, 2026

“Love Grows Here”
Portsmouth Health Department Holds Free Baby Shower

PORTSMOUTH, Va. – The Portsmouth Health Department is hosting a free community baby shower. The event “Love Grows Here” will help educate families and connect them to vital resources. There will be free giveaways for all. more>>


February 10, 2026

Real Love Respects
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Highlights Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

WARRENTON, Va. – February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District reminds teens and the community what love is. Love should feel safe and supportive, not controlling or frightening. more>>


February 9, 2026

Love Safely This Valentine’s Day
Get Free Condoms from the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District

WARRENTON, Va. – It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day is also National Condom Day! One of the simplest ways to show you care is to protect the health of those you love. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District provides free condoms to support safer and healthier sexual relationships. more>>


February 7, 2026

Alexandria Health Department Shares Details of Northern Virginia Measles Exposure

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is advising residents about potential exposures to measles in Virginia's Northern Region.  Exposed people are encouraged to fill out a short survey. The patient is a pre-school age child (0-4 years). Additionally, VDH was notified of a confirmed case of measles that is a resident of another state who traveled through Ronald Regan Washington National airport on January 26. more>>


February 6, 2026

Hibernate Healthy: The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Gives Tips to Combat Substance Use Disorder This Winter

WARRENTON, Va. –  Winter is often a time of reflection and resolution, but for some, it’s a time when substance use increases. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District reminds the community that substance use disorder (SUD) is a critical issue highlighted during this time of year, particularly as individuals and communities set intentions for improvement and recovery. more>>


February 5, 2026

Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts Release 2025 Annual Report Highlighting Public Health Progress

The Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts (HPHD) are proud to share the FY2025 Annual Report.  The report highlights a year of growth, resilience and ongoing work to make the Greater Peninsula region a healthier place to live. more >>


February 5, 2026

RHHD Commemorates National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day Feb. 7

RICHMOND, Va. —Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) commemorate National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on Wednesday, Feb. 7, by encouraging Black and African American community members in Richmond City and Henrico County to get tested and seek treatment. This day creates the opportunity for healthcare providers and policy makers to reflect on the ways racism, discrimination, and mistrust in the health care system may affect those seeking and receiving HIV prevention and treatment services. more>>


February 5, 2026

Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Encourages Healthy Dental Habits Among Children
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month

WARRENTON, Va. – The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District reminds parents, guardians and caregivers to begin teaching young children about the importance of good dental health habits. more>>


February 5, 2026

Alexandria Health Department Shares Details of Northern Virginia Measles Exposures

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is advising residents about potential exposures to measles in northern Virginia.  Exposed people are encouraged to fill out a short survey for the Fairfax County Health Department. The patient is an adult resident of Northern Virginia. This is the state’s fifth measles case in 2026. more>>


February 2, 2026

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Encourage Community Members to Prioritize Heart Health
February is American Heart Month

RICHMOND, Va. – In honor of American Heart Month, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage you to take action to prioritize heart health. more>>


February 2, 2026

Partnership Seeks Nominations for 2026 Live Healthy Fairfax Awards

FAIRFAX, Va. – Do you know someone or an organization who deserves to be celebrated for their efforts in improving the health of the Fairfax community? The Partnership for a Healthier Fairfax seeks nominations for its 2026 Live Healthy Fairfax Award. This award recognizes individuals, businesses, agencies, and organizations that have demonstrated outstanding leadership and action to improve the health and well-being of the Fairfax community. more>>


February 2, 2026
Book a Sexual Health Visit, Get Local Discounts this February through Alexandria's "Love Safely & Save" Campaign

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – They say Virginia is for lovers—and here in Alexandria, we couldn’t agree more! This February, the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) and participating Alexandria businesses invite you to Love Safely & Save. more>>


January 31, 2026

Alexandria Health Department Shares Details of Northern Virginia Measles Exposures

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is advising residents about potential exposures to measles in northern Virginia. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) was notified of a confirmed case of measles that traveled through Washington Dulles International Airport Saturday, January 24. The person is a resident of another state. Health officials are coordinating an effort to identify people who might have been exposed, including contacting potentially exposed passengers on specific flights. more>>


January 29, 2026

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Offer Safety Tips to Stay Warm During Extreme Cold

WISE, Va. As southwest Virginia continues to see dangerously cold temperatures, hypothermia and frostbite are real concerns. The Virginia Department of Health’s Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge you to take steps to keep you and your family warm, dry, and healthy throughout this winter season. more>>


January 29, 2026

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Offers Safety Tips to Stay Warm During Extreme Cold

WARRENTON, Va. – As the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District continues to see dangerously cold temperatures, hypothermia and frostbite are real concerns. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District urges you to take steps to keep you and your family warm, dry and healthy during this storm. more>>


January 28, 2026

Crater Health District Safety Tips to Stay Warm During Extreme Cold

PETERSBURG, Va. As localities across Crater Health District (CHD) continue to see dangerously cold temperatures, hypothermia and frostbite are real concerns. The Crater Health District urges you to take steps to keep you and your family warm, dry and healthy during this winter season. more>>


January 28, 2026

Central Shenandoah Health District Offers Safety Tips to Stay Warm During Extreme Cold

STAUNTON, Va. As the Shenandoah Valley continues to see dangerously cold temperatures, hypothermia and frostbite are real concerns. The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) urges you to take steps to keep you and your family warm, dry and healthy during this storm. more>>


January 28, 2026

Stay Healthy During Extremely Cold Weather

ASHLAND, Va. As the counties of Charles City, Goochland, Hanover, and New Kent continue to experience extremely cold weather, the Chickahominy Health District encourages everyone to protect themselves against serious health problems that can result from prolonged exposure to the cold. more>>


January 26, 2026

Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts Encourage Community to Give Blood
January is National Blood Donor Month

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Winter is traditionally a time when blood donations decline due to weather conditions, holiday travel, and seasonal illnesses. These factors can put blood supplies at risk. more>>


January 23, 2026

Holding Ground on Maternal Health
Chesapeake Health District Delivering Hope on Maternal Health Awareness Day, January 23

CHESAPEAKE, Va.– The Chesapeake Health Department renews its commitment to protecting mothers and supporting healthy families before, during, and after pregnancy. Through preventative services, access to care, and postpartum support, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) can help address issues such as high blood pressure, substance use, mental health, and chronic conditions to make pregnancy and the postpartum period safer and healthier for all families. more>>


January 23, 2026

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm

WISE, Va. A significant winter storm is expected to impact our community this weekend. The storm will arrive as snow Saturday afternoon and pick up overnight Saturday into Sunday continuing through the day.   An increase in sleet/freezing rain potential will complicate the forecast. The increased freezing rain probabilities amplify the concern for power outages. The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge everyone to prepare now to keep you and your family safe, warm and healthy during this storm. more>>


January 22, 2026

Stay Safe During Winter Weather: 5 Steps to Prepare

FAIRFAX, Va. – With extremely cold temperatures and the possibility of snow accumulation in the forecast, now is the time to prepare for Winter Storm Fern. Taking proactive steps today will help keep you and your loved ones warm, healthy, and injury-free when the snow begins to fall. more>>


January 22, 2026

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Shares Two Ways You Can Prevent Cervical Cancer
January Marks Cervical Health Awareness Month

WARRENTON, Va.– Cervical cancer is highly preventable, yet thousands of women die from it each year in the United States. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District encourages you to take two simple steps to prevent cervical cancer. Vaccination and screenings help save lives. more>>


January 22, 2026

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Urges the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm

RICHMOND, Va. Richmond City and Henrico County are expected to be impacted by severe winter weather, including snow, ice, and extremely cold temperatures. Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) urge you to prepare now to keep yourself, your family and your pets safe, warm and healthy during this storm. more>>


January 21, 2026

Central Shenandoah Health District Urges the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm

STAUNTON, Va. The Shenandoah Valley is expected to be impacted by severe winter weather, to include snow and ice this coming weekend. The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) urges you to prepare now to keep you and your family safe, warm, and healthy during this storm. more>>


January 21, 2026

Alexandria Health Department Shares Details of New Northern Virginia Measles Exposures

Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is advising residents about potential exposures to measles in northern Virginia. The patient is a preschool-age child (0-4 years) in the Northern Region who recently traveled internationally. The case is not related to the Virginia measles case reported on January 11. Virginia health officials are coordinating an effort to identify people who might have been exposed. more>>


January 20, 2026

Rappahannock Area Health District Reports Rabies Case for Raccoon in the City of Fredericksburg

FREDERICKSBURG, VA – The Rappahannock Area Health District (RAHD) is notifying community members residing near the vicinity of the 900 block of Sylvania Avenue in Fredericksburg of a raccoon that was collected on January 15, 2026; it has tested positive for rabies. This raccoon has a known exposure to a dog in this area, and no human exposures have been reported at this time. more>>


January 20, 2026

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Urges the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm

WARRENTON, Va. – The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health district is expected to be impacted by severe winter weather, to include in addition to the very cold temperatures this week, there is a high probability (60-80%) for moderate winter storm impacts over much of our area on Sunday January 25, 2026. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District urges you to prepare now to keep you and your family safe, warm and healthy during this storm. more>>


January 20, 2026

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Encourage Vaccination and Screening to Protect Against Cervical Cancer
January is Cervical Health Awareness Month

RICHMOND, Va. – In honor of Cervical Health Awareness Month, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage community members to take action against cervical cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), human papilloma virus (HPV) causes more than nine out of every 10 cases of cervical cancer. Almost all cervical cancer can be prevented by HPV vaccination. more>>


January 16, 2026

Raccoon Tests Positive for Rabies in Hopewell City

HOPEWELL, Va. – The Crater Health District has received confirmation that a raccoon has tested positive for the rabies virus near Norton Street in Hopewell, VA.  The Hopewell Health Department/Crater Health District and the Hopewell Animal Service Unit encourage animal owners to confirm that all pet vaccinations are current and report any stray animals. more>>


January 15, 2026

Alexandria Health Department Shares Community Health Improvement Planning Updates and How All Community Members Can Get Involved

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – As we kick off 2026, Alexandria Health Department (AHD) and the Partnership of Alexandria (PHA) are sharing progress made on the 2025-2030 Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) and inviting residents to join the work.  Based on the recent Community Health Assessment, the City’s next Community Health Improvement Plan will focus on three areas: Mental Wellness (city-wide), Landmark/Van Dorn neighborhood,  and Arlandria neighborhood. more>>


January 15, 2026

Students Shine in Public Health Youth Ambassador Competition

FAIRFAX, Va. – Ten Fairfax County Health Department Youth Ambassadors (PHYA) traveled to Georgetown University to present their community health projects to faculty members of the School of Medicine’s Department of Family Medicine on Monday, January 12. The program marked the final competition for students from Justice and Mount Vernon High Schools who participated in the Youth Ambassador program during the fall semester. more>>


January 13, 2026

Alexandria Health Department Releases 2025 Annual Report Highlighting Public Health Progress Despite Funding Cuts, Measles, and More

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is proud to share the AHD 2025 Annual Report, showcasing a year of resilience and ongoing commitment to making Alexandria a healthier place for all. The report details how AHD responded to disruptive challenges this year including sudden funding cuts, staff losses, disease outbreaks, and safety concerns in our communities. more>>


January 12, 2026

Jenkins Foundation awards Chesterfield Health District with a Grant
 Funds support one community health worker

CHESTERFIELD, Va.– The Jenkins Foundation awarded Chesterfield Health District with a grant to fund one community health worker (CHW) in the North Chesterfield/Route 1 corridor. more>>


January 12, 2026

Alexandria Health Department Shares Details of Northern Virginia Measles Exposures

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is advising residents about potential exposures to measles in northern Virginia. VDH is reporting the state’s second measles case of 2026. The patient is a preschool-age child (0-4 years) in the Northern Region who recently traveled internationally.  Virginia health officials are coordinating an effort to identify people who might have been exposed. more>>


January 9, 2026

Respiratory Illnesses Are High in Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District
Health Officials Say It’s Not Too Late to Get Vaccinated

WARRENTON, Va. – Respiratory virus activity is high and increasing, particularly for RSV, Flu viruses in Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District. Health officials say it’s not too late to get vaccinate. Vaccination is key to preventing severe illness and reducing hospitalizations during peak season. more>>


January 8, 2026

Respiratory Illnesses Are High in the Central Shenandoah Health District
Health Officials Say It’s Not Too Late to Get Vaccinated

STAUNTON, Va.Respiratory virus activity is high, particularly for the flu, in the Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD). Health officials say it’s not too late to get vaccinated. Vaccination is key to preventing severe illness and reducing hospitalizations during peak season. more>>


January 7, 2026

Virginia Cancer Registry Releases Cancer Cluster Investigation Report

GATE CITY, Va. – Virginia Department of Health’s Virginia Cancer Registry (VCR) has released its Scott County pediatric cancer investigation report. The report indicates that cancer rates did not meet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) definition of a cluster, based on the cases included in the 2014-2023 analysis. more>>


January 7, 2026

New Year, New You: The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Encourages a New, Healthier You in 2026

WARRENTON, Va. – Ring in the New Year and focus on becoming healthier. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District wants to help you keep your New Year’s resolutions by offering simple, sustainable habits for a year of health and wellness. more>>


January 5, 2026

New Year, New You: Rappahannock Area Health District Encourages a New, Healthier You in 2026

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Ring in the New Year and focus on becoming healthier. The Rappahannock Area Health District wants to help you keep your New Year’s resolutions by offering simple, sustainable habits for a year of health and wellness. more>>


January 5, 2026

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Encourage Community Members to Test Their Homes for Radon
January is National Radon Action Month

RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage community members to protect their health by testing their homes for radon. January is National Radon Action Month. more>>


January 2, 2026

Flu and Respiratory Illnesses Rise in Alexandria - Tips to Stay Healthy

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is reporting a rise in influenza (flu) illness in Alexandria. The number of flu-related emergency department visits in Alexandria more than tripled over the last two weeks of December 2025, according to the Virginia Department of Health. With this rise in flu and other illnesses, AHD recommends that people take added precautions to stay healthy and stop the spread of germs. more>>


January 2, 2026

Central Shenandoah Health District Reports Rabid Raccoon in Staunton

STAUNTON, Va. – The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) reminds its community members to keep their pets vaccinated for rabies after a raccoon collected Monday 12/29/25 in the City of Staunton tested positive for rabies. The raccoon was collected from a residential area (West of Thornrose Cemetery, between Gypsy Hill Park and West Beverley Street). There are currently no known human exposures to the raccoon. more>>


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Last Updated: March 16, 2026