2026 Statewide News Releases

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January 22, 2026

As Flu Cases Rise During Respiratory Illness Season, VDH and VHHA Offer Recommendations on Accessing Care and Protecting Against Illness
Patients Experiencing Flu and Respiratory Virus Symptoms are Encouraged to Take Steps to Protect their Health and Seek Care in the Appropriate Medical Setting

RICHMOND, Va. – As communities across the nation and in Virginia experience increased levels of influenza and other respiratory illnesses, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association (VHHA) urge the public to take steps to prevent illness and seek appropriate care, when needed. more>>


January 20, 2026

Virginia Health Officials Investigating Another 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 the Northern Region. The patient is a preschool-age child (0-4 years) who recently traveled internationally. This case is unrelated to a recent measles case reported on January 11. 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 and appreciate the active collaboration of affected healthcare facilities. more>>


January 15, 2026

Virginia Health Officials Report the First Pediatric Flu Death of the 2025–2026 Season

RICHMOND, Va. – Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is reporting the first influenza-associated pediatric death for the 2025–26 influenza (flu) season in Virginia. Sadly, a preschool-age child (0-4 years) in VDH’s Eastern Region died from complications associated with flu. To protect the family’s privacy, VDH will not provide any additional information about the child. more>>


January 14, 2026

Governor Glenn Youngkin Celebrates Major Accomplishments in Strengthening Oversight of Virginia’s Nursing Homes

RICHMOND, VA — Governor Glenn Youngkin yesterday hosted a public event at the Patrick Henry Building to recognize major accomplishments delivered under Executive Order 52, “Strengthening Oversight of Virginia’s Nursing Homes,” and to honor the state employees whose work rebuilt critical oversight systems serving Virginia’s most vulnerable seniors.


January 12, 2026

Governor Glenn Youngkin and First Lady of Virginia Suzanne S. Youngkin Celebrate Partnership for Petersburg’s Success and Make New Sustainability Announcements

RICHMOND, Va. – On Friday, Governor Glenn Youngkin and First Lady of Virginia Suzanne S. Youngkin joined Petersburg Mayor Sam Parham, U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Assistant Secretary for Health and Head of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps Admiral Brian Christine, MD, HHS Senior Advisor Calley Means, HHS Associate Deputy Secretary West Cuthbert, as well as members of the Petersburg community for an important milestone of the Partnership for Petersburg initiative. In addition to recognizing the historic results this Partnership has already delivered for Petersburg, the event also involved major announcements for the future of Petersburg.


January 11, 2026

Virginia Health Officials Investigating a Confirmed Measles Case in Northern Region

RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia Department of Health (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. To protect the patient’s privacy, VDH will not provide any additional information about the patient. Virginia health officials are coordinating an effort to identify people who might have been exposed. more>>


 

Last Updated: January 22, 2026