Tag: central shenandoah health district

Central Shenandoah Health District Welcomes New Health Director

March 10, 2026
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

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).

Crockett has previously served in several leadership positions focused on emergency preparedness and health promotion. He was most recently the health director for Mesa County, Colorado.

He holds a Master of Science degree in Disaster Medicine and Emergency Management, and he is currently a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) candidate.

Crockett has built many successful partnerships throughout his career, including with hospitals, behavioral health providers, local governments, and community organizations. His structured leadership has led to improved emergency preparedness, and these efforts have helped to develop long-lasting, community-focused plans for a modernized public health system.

“I’m honored to be able to serve this community alongside our dedicated staff and community partners. It is important that CSHD remains responsive and accessible. We need to be able to meet the needs of our region now and in the future,” Crockett says. “Public health works best when it is visible, trusted, and integrated into the daily lives of the communities we serve.”

Crockett has been an active volunteer throughout his career, having served on local, state, and federal advisory boards. He has also spent more than a decade as part of the Medical Reserve Corps. The national volunteer network has enabled him to serve in a variety of leadership roles. Through these efforts he has been able to work to improve community health and safety.

In his new position, Crockett plans to strengthen regional partnerships and looks forward to supporting the public health workforce. A main goal will be to ensure services are responsive and aligned with community needs. Crockett is also focused on strengthening access to services, maternal and child health programs, and community-based prevention efforts across the district’s ten localities.

For more information about the Central Shenandoah Health District, visit vdh.virginia.gov/central-shenandoah/.

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

January 28, 2026
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

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.

“While the storm has moved through our region, prolonged cold temperatures continue to pose serious health risks,” says Xavier Crockett, health director for CSHD. “Taking simple precautions can prevent injuries and keep our communities safe.”

Hypothermia occurs most commonly at very cold environmental temperatures but can occur even at cool temperatures (above 40°F) if a person becomes chilled from rain, sweat, or submersion in cold water. Signs to look out for include shivering, exhaustion or fatigue, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and/or drowsiness. In babies look for bright red, cold skin and very low energy.

Frostbite is a type of injury caused by freezing. If you notice redness or pain in any skin area, get out of the cold. The skin will feel numb, unusually firm or waxy, and can also appear white or grayish yellow. If you have frostbite, you may not know until someone else points it out because the frozen parts of your body are numb.

The Central Shenandoah Health District encourages you to take these steps to prevent hypothermia, frostbite and other potential injuries.

Staying Warm

  • Stay indoors and limit your exposure to the cold.
  • Bring your pets indoors and ensure they have water.
  • Eating healthy meals will help to keep your body temperature warm.
  • Stay hydrated even during the cold to prevent hypothermia. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. They cause your body to lose heat faster. Drink warm beverages or broth.
  • Keep extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm winter coats on hand for use in cold rooms.
  • Charge all your devices (medical equipment, phone, computer, tablet, radio, etc.).
  • Check on neighbors, friends, and family.
  • For a list of warming centers in your area, call 2-1-1 or visit org/
    • Check this list for warming shelters located within CSHD:
      • Central United Methodist Church, 14 N. Lewis St., Staunton, VA, 24401
      • Waynesboro Area Refuge Ministry (WARM), check here for rotating locations.
      • Open Doors, 1111 N. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA, 28802

If You Go Outside

If you must go outside, please take these precautions:

  • Dress warmly and in layers. Make sure you cover your head, fingers and toes to prevent frostbite.
  • Be aware of the wind chill factor.
  • Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps.
  • Avoid getting wet. If you get wet, change out of wet clothes as soon as possible to prevent hypothermia.
  • Take frequent breaks if shoveling snow or working outdoors.

If You Must Drive

  • If you must travel, check the road conditions and your route first.
  • Allow extra time and follow these tips from the Virginia Department of Transportation.
  • If you must travel, let someone know your destination and when you expect to arrive. Ask them to notify authorities if you are late.
  • Always carry extra warm clothing and blankets with Don’t rely on a car to provide enough heat.

If you have chronic conditions, please reach out to your healthcare provider to make sure together you have a care plan in place. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, home-use medical devices, and vitamins. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.

If you notice signs of frostbite and hypothermia, seek medical attention immediately.

If you have questions, please contact the Central Shenandoah Health District at cshdinfo@vdh.virginia.gov.

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

Posted on by lindascarborough

January 21, 2026
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

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.

“Being prepared for winter weather makes all the difference when a storm hits,” says Xavier Crockett, Health Director for CSHD. “We’re encouraging everyone to have emergency supplies at home, and to stay off the roads if they can, especially in our more rural counties.”

Before the Storm

Before the storm arrives, the Central Shenandoah Health District urges you to take these steps:

  • Make sure you have an emergency supply kit on hand and keep an emergency kit for your car.
  • Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, home-use medical devices, and vitamins. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
  • Check your smoke and carbon monoxide
  • Replenish fuel for your car and heating sources.
  • Weatherproof your home by insulating exposed pipes and caulking and weather strip doors/windows.
  • Make sure you understand the warnings, watches and advisories and have multiple ways to receive alerts.

During/After the Storm

  • Bring your pets indoors and ensure they have water.
  • Stay indoors and limit your exposure to the cold.
  • Properly ventilate emergency heat sources.
  • Keep generators outside at least 20 feet from your home.
  • Check on neighbors and family.

If you must go outside, take the following precautions to stay safe and prevent frostbite and hypothermia:

  • Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps.
  • Dress warmly and in layers. Make sure you cover your head, fingers and toes.
  • Avoid getting wet and change out of wet clothes as soon as possible.
  • Stay hydrated. Drink warm beverages.
  • Take frequent breaks if shoveling snow or working outdoors.
  • Stay off the roads. If you must travel, check the road conditions and your route first. Allow extra time and follow these tips from the Virginia Department of Transportation.

The Central Shenandoah Health District wants you to stay warm, safe, and healthy! For more information, contact the Central Shenandoah Health District at cshdinfo@vdh.virginia.gov.

Respiratory Illnesses Are High in the Central Shenandoah Health District

January 8, 2026
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

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.

As of January 8, the level of respiratory illnesses is high in Virginia. The Virginia Department of Health reported 21.8% of all emergency department (ED) visits in the Northwest Region were for respiratory illnesses. Area hospitals have seen an exponential increase in hospital admissions related to flu, which is similar to what is being seen across the nation.

“High levels of flu activity are being reported in our region right now,” says Dr. Allison Baroco, the Community Health Services Medical Officer for the Virginia Department of Health. “This is a good reminder that it is not too late to get your flu shot for the season, and that those who are feeling sick should stay home if able.”

Everyone aged six months and older should get a flu shot every year, with a few exceptions. Talk to a healthcare provider about which flu vaccines are recommended for you and your family.

People aged six months and older can receive the COVID-19 vaccine based on individual-based decision-making with a healthcare provider.

All adults aged 75 years and older are recommended to receive a single dose of one RSV vaccine. If you are 60-74 years old with a health condition, speak with your healthcare provider to determine if the RSV vaccine is the right choice for you. Pregnant women and parents of newborns should also talk with their provider about the benefits of the RSV vaccine.

Other steps you can take to stay healthy include:

  • Staying home when sick.
  • Washing your hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Covering coughs and sneezes.

For more information, contact the Central Shenandoah Health District at either (540) 332-7830 or cshdinfo@vdh.virginia.gov, or visit the VDH flu page.

Central Shenandoah Health District Reports Rabid Raccoon in Staunton

January 2, 2026
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

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.

“While this raccoon no longer presents a threat, it is a reminder to get your pets vaccinated for rabies and to keep their vaccinations up to date,” says Jason Weakley, Environmental Health Manager at CSHD. “Protecting animals from rabies protects both them and the people around them.”

Anyone having information regarding any potential exposure to this animal via a bite, scratch, or contact with saliva in an open wound or through the eyes, nose, or mouth should contact the Staunton-Augusta Health Department at 540-332-7830. Exposures also include direct contact between your pet and the rabid animal. After hours, for either human or animal exposure concerns, please contact the Virginia Department of Health at 1-866-531-3068.

CSHD reminds all residents to follow these important rabies prevention guidelines:

  • Do not feed stray animals.
  • Avoid wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, and skunks.
  • Feed your pets indoors and do not let them wander.
  • Make sure your pets are vaccinated against rabies and their shots are up to date. By law, dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies.
  • Teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and pets they are not familiar with.
  • Do not handle sick, injured or dead animals. If you see a wild animal that appears to be ill, injured or orphaned, contact the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.
  • Keep wild animals out of homes by capping chimneys with screens and block openings in attics, cellars and porches.
  • Ensure trash cans have tight fitting lids.

Rabies is linked to a virus that attacks the nervous system and can be deadly if not properly treated. If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal, wash the wound(s) thoroughly with warm soapy water and contact animal control, your healthcare provider, or the Staunton-Augusta Health Department.

For more information about rabies, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/animal-contact-human-health/rabies-control/

 

New Year, New You: Central Shenandoah Health District Encourages a New, Healthier You in 2026

December 30, 2025
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

New Year, New You: Central Shenandoah Health District Encourages a New, Healthier You in 2026

STAUNTON, Va. – Ring in the New Year and focus on becoming healthier. The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) wants to help you keep your New Year’s resolutions by offering simple, sustainable habits for a year of health and wellness.

Here are some tips to help you be healthier in 2026:

  • Get Active: In Virginia, over 30% of adults are obese. Try to move more and sit less. Take the stairs when you can. Find fun ways to be active, like walking or doing yoga. Aim for about 150 minutes of exercise each week.
  • Eat Well: Eat more foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats. Drink lots of water. Eliminate sugar and junk food/limit alcoholic drinks.
  • Manage Stress: Get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Try mindfulness or meditation. Spend time with friends and family, manage your stress, and maybe write in a journal.
  • Schedule Screenings: Visit your doctor and dentist for regular checkups and screenings. Drink enough water and wash your hands often to stay healthy.
  • Quit Smoking: Now is a good time to quit bad habits. Smoking and vaping can hurt your body, so it’s best to stop. Quit Now Virginia is a free service that helps people quit smoking, using tobacco, or vaping.

The Central Shenandoah Health District offers a variety of programs to help residents achieve their health goals, including: STI testing, vaccine appointments, Quit Now Virginia, and free health screenings throughout the district.

CSHD wants you to keep working on your goals to build healthy habits this year. If things don’t always go as planned, be kind to yourself and keep trying. Do things that make you happy and take care of yourself.

Let’s make becoming healthier a priority in 2026! If you have questions, reach out to the Central Shenandoah Health District at cshdinfo@vdh.virginia.gov.

Let’s make health a shared goal!

Central Shenandoah Health District Urges Residents to Be Prepared for the Unpredictable Impacts of Winter Weather

December 12, 2025
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Central Shenandoah Health District Urges Residents to Be Prepared
for the Unpredictable Impacts of Winter Weather
Stay Safe This Winter with These Tips

STAUNTON, Va. – The Central Shenandoah Health District reminds residents that winter weather can be dangerous and unpredictable. Snow, ice, and freezing conditions can lead to unexpected injuries and accidents. These conditions can increase the risk of hazardous travel, power outages, and health impacts, especially for older adults, children, and people with chronic health problems.

“Being prepared is half the battle,” says Dr. Allison Baroco, Acting Health Director for CSHD. “We’ve already seen some snow this year, so this is a good reminder to prepare for the coming months. Good preparedness makes unexpected weather safer and easier for you and your family.”

By preparing ahead of time you can avoid emergencies, protect your health and keep your loved ones safe. Follow these tips to be better prepared for the cold weather season.

  • Have an emergency kit with supplies such flashlights, batteries, blankets, food, and water.
  • Winterize your home by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows.
  • Check batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors.
  • Prepare your vehicle with emergency supplies.
  • Use space heaters safely. Keep heat sources at least three feet away from drapes, furniture, bedding, or other flammable materials. Never cover your space heater.

Preparation before dangerous winter weather arrives is critical. The best time to prepare for severe winter weather is now, before temperatures drop significantly and staying safe and warm becomes a challenge. Take these precautions to lower your risk of illness.

  • Wear cold appropriate clothing like gloves, hats, scarves and snow boots.
  • Be aware of the wind chill factor.
  • Remove any wet clothing immediately.
  • Limit your time outdoors.

If you plan to travel, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) provides travel advisories on current road conditions and weather forecasts. Travelers can easily access weather information by dialing 511, 24 hours a day, seven days a week or via the website at 511.vdot.virginia.gov.

Learn more about staying safe this winter by visiting the Central Shenandoah Health District at https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/central-shenandoah/

Central Shenandoah Health District Observes World AIDS Day

December 1, 2025
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Central Shenandoah Health District Observes World AIDS Day
Wear a Red Ribbon to Show Your Support

STAUNTON, Va. — The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) recognizes December 1 as World AIDS Day and encourages communities to stand together, united with a red ribbon. Remember those who have been lost, unite in the fight against HIV and AIDS, and raise awareness to prevent new cases of HIV.

“About 13% of those living with HIV are unaware of their positive status,” says Dr. Allison Baroco, Acting Health Director for CSHD. “Getting tested is the only way to know your status for sure. We now have many medications that can treat HIV infection and can help people live long and healthy lives, so getting tested early before you may have symptoms is important.”

CSHD provides STI testing at the Staunton-Augusta, Harrisonburg-Rockingham, and Waynesboro-Augusta health departments. You can make an appointment for STI testing by calling (540) 332-7830.

More than 28,000 people are living with HIV in Virginia, including 424 people within CSHD. More than 75% of people with HIV in Virginia are men, and more than half are 50 years or older. While Black, non-Hispanic people make up 19% of the population in the Commonwealth, 56% of people with HIV identify as Black, non-Hispanic in Virginia.

Support from family and friends can be helpful. If you know of anyone who has been diagnosed with HIV, help is available. Financial assistance with medication costs or copays is available through local, state, or federal programs. Visit the Virginia Department of Health to learn about prevention, treatment, financial assistance, STI data, and other related resources.

To learn more about HIV:

Let’s work to fight against HIV and AIDS. The Central Shenandoah Health District encourages you to wear a red ribbon on December 1. To make an STI testing appointment, call CSDH at (540) 332-7830.

Diabetes Often Goes Undetected: Are You at Risk?

November 17, 2025
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Diabetes Often Goes Undetected: Are You at Risk?
Central Shenandoah Health District Has Tips for National Diabetes Awareness Month

STAUNTON, Va.– Did you know that one in four Virginians has diabetes and doesn’t know it? More than two million adults in Virginia have prediabetes putting them at risk for major health problems even early death. But it’s not too late. Lifestyle changes can prevent or delay the disease and improve your overall health. The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) can help you get on the right track.

Why should you care? Untreated diabetes can do real damage to your body, to include:

  • Long term organ damage
  • Heart disease and stroke
  • Nerve damage
  • Vision loss/blindness
  • Dementia
  • Mental health issues

Diabetes also costs a lot of money! People with diabetes pay twice as much for medical expenses than those who don’t have the disease. Direct medical expenses for those diagnosed with diabetes in Virginia totaled more than $412 billion in 2022.

Your risk for developing type 2 diabetes is higher if:

  • You’re overweight.
  • You have a family history of diabetes.
  • You had diabetes while you were pregnant (gestational diabetes).
  • You live in a rural area. In Virginia, rural areas report higher rates of diabetes. 13% of adults living in CSHD have diabetes. The VDH, and the Virginia Center for Diabetes Prevention and Education, are working to improve healthcare access and reduce disparities. The Virginia Rural Health Plan 2022–2026 was created for this purpose.

“Untreated diabetes is dangerous for your health in ways you might not be aware of,” says Dr. Allison Baroco, Acting Health Director for CSHD. “For example, it is the leading cause of lower limb amputations in the U.S.”

Central Shenandoah Health District offers these tips to get you on the right track:

For more information on local programs and resources, contact The Central Shenandoah Health District directly at (540) 332-7830 or visit the VDH Diabetes Resource Page.

Central Shenandoah Health District Encourages the ‘Little Things’ to Protect Against Respiratory Illnesses This Fall

October 28, 2025
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Central Shenandoah Health District Encourages the ‘Little Things’ to Protect Against Respiratory Illnesses This Fall
Wash Your Hands, Cover Your Coughs and Sneezes, Get Immunized

STAUNTON, Va. – You can protect you and your family this fall from respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV by doing some simple little things. The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) shares three little things for a healthy fall: washing your hands, covering your coughs and sneezes, and getting immunized.

“The ‘Little Things’ campaign highlights that small habits can make a big difference in our health,” says Dr. Allison Baroco, Acting Health Director for CSHD. “All of these habits add protection to our defense against illness and to help keep us healthy throughout the respiratory illness season.”

Washing Hands

Washing hands takes a mere 20-30 seconds but can be key to keeping you healthy and preventing respiratory diseases. Germs can spread by touching surfaces and other people. Be sure to wash your hands:

  • After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • Before and after preparing food or eating.
  • Before and after caring for someone else who is sick.
  • After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste.

If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to clean your hands.

Covering Your Cough

Respiratory viruses can spread through droplets that are released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. To limit the spread of respiratory viruses, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Put your used tissue in the waste basket.

If you don’t have a tissue, cough into your upper sleeve or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands.

Getting Immunized

Everyone aged six months and older should get a flu shot every year, with a few exceptions. Talk to a healthcare provider about which flu vaccines are recommended for you and your family.

People aged six months and older can receive the COVID-19 vaccine based on individual-based decision-making with a healthcare provider.

All adults aged 75 years and older are recommended to receive a single dose of one RSV vaccine. If you are 60-74 years old with a health condition, speak with your healthcare provider to decide if the RSV vaccine is the right choice for you. Pregnant women and parents of newborns should also talk with their provider about the benefits of the RSV vaccine.

If you are sick, stay home to prevent additional spread of respiratory virus.

For more information about how to stay healthy during respiratory illness season and all year round, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/epidemiology/respiratory-diseases-in-virginia/ or contact the Staunton-Augusta Health Department at (540) 332-7830.