Tag: chesapeake health department

Rabid Kitten Bites Man in South Norfolk

December 11, 2025

Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

Rabid Kitten Bites Man in South Norfolk

CHESAPEAKE, Va. –  On December 6, 2025, an employee of a South Norfolk business was bitten by a feral kitten while attempting to render medical assistance. The kitten was discovered in the vicinity of Buell Street several weeks prior to the incident. The employee removed the kitten to his home, where the bite occurred. The kitten is deceased. The employee is currently receiving rabies post-exposure treatment.

Rabies is commonly found in wild animals, such as raccoons, skunks, and foxes. This year, 151 animals tested positive for rabies in Virginia. Wild animals can also spread rabies to unvaccinated feral and domestic pets and livestock.

Rabies illness symptoms include abnormal behavior, difficulty swallowing, poor balance, paralysis, and seizures. Once any mammal becomes ill with rabies, progression to death typically occurs rapidly. If left untreated in humans, rabies is 100% fatal.

“Rabies is entirely preventable, and one bite can change a life,” said Derek D. Hunt, Environmental Health Manager. “Protect yourself, your pets, and your community by keeping animals vaccinated and avoiding contact with wildlife.” Virginia law requires all dogs and cats four months of age and older to be vaccinated for rabies by a licensed veterinarian. Vaccinations must be kept current.

To protect yourself and your animals from rabies:

  • Do not attempt to capture, feed, or domesticate a stray animal. Do not give or accept a stray pet as a gift. Report strays to Chesapeake Non-Emergency Dispatch. 757-382-8181.
  • Avoid wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes and skunks. Wild animals are not pets.
  • Do not handle sick, injured or dead animals. Instead, report these animals to the Department of Wildlife Resources. Permitted wildlife rehabilitators are another option.
  • Teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and unfamiliar pets.
  • Feed your pets indoors and do not let them wander.
  • Keep wild animals out of your home and business by capping chimneys with screens. Block openings in attics, cellars and porches. Ensure trash cans have tight fitting lids.
  • Make sure your pets are vaccinated against rabies and their shots are up to date. By law, all dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies.

Anyone potentially exposed to a rabid animal should notify their healthcare provider immediately. Exposure includes any bites, scratches or contact with saliva.

If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal, do not panic. Wash animal bite wounds thoroughly with soap and water to decrease the chance of infection. Contact your healthcare provider or the Chesapeake Health Department for further recommendations.

If your pet is attacked or bitten by an animal, Chesapeake Non-Emergency Dispatch. 757-382-6161.

For more information about rabies, visit the Virginia Department of Health Rabies Control webpage.

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The Chesapeake Health Department Encourages Healthy Holiday Baking Traditions

December 4, 2025
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

The Chesapeake Health Department Encourages Healthy Holiday Baking Traditions
From Oven to Table: Healthy Tips for Holiday Treats

CHESAPEAKE, Va. – The holiday season is the perfect time to gather in the kitchen, roll out dough, and share sweet traditions with family and friends. To help keep those cherished baking moments joyful and safe, the Chesapeake Health Department offers simple tips to ensure your holiday treats bring smiles to the table instead of unwanted illnesses.

“I love cookies!” said Dr. Nancy Welch, director of the Chesapeake Health Department. “My favorite treat is an oatmeal raisin cookie. I allow myself one a day (oatmeal is healthy, right?) so I can enjoy my treat without feeling the need to overindulge. A little treat goes a long way in creating happiness.”

Holiday baking involves using several raw ingredients like eggs and flour. By following these tips, you can protect loved ones from foodborne illness while creating delicious memories.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients. Check the expiration dates on your baking supplies, especially if they have been in the pantry since last year. When in doubt, throw it out.
  • Wash Your Hands. Wash your hands before preparing to bake and after handling any raw ingredients. Remember to wash your hands after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
  • Skip Licking the Spoon. As tempting as it may be to sample your work in progress, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against . Batter and dough contain raw ingredients like eggs and flour, which can cause foodborne illness.
  • Clean as You Go. Wash bowls, utensils, cutting boards and countertops with hot, soapy water before and after preparing each food item. Not only does it keep your work area clean, but washing any surface that comes in contact with raw ingredients prevents cross contamination.
  • Bake thoroughly: Follow recipe instructions to ensure baked goods reach safe internal temperatures.
  • Store leftovers safely: Refrigerate perishable baked goods, such as those containing fresh dairy, cream cheese, whipped cream, or fresh fruit within two hours.

Little helpers make baking more fun. Keep an eye on children around hot ovens, sharp tools, and raw ingredients to ensure safety.

The Chesapeake Health Department wishes everyone a safe, sweet, and festive holiday season. For more safety tips, visit  fightbac.org/flour-safety/

 

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High Five for Hand Hygiene!

October 15, 2025
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

 

High Five for Hand Hygiene!
The Chesapeake Health Department Has the Dirt on Global Handwashing Day

CHESAPEAKE, Va. – In honor of Global Handwashing Day, October 15, the Chesapeake Health Department has some dirt on people that will probably gross you out! We also have some fun ideas for teaching kids the right way to wash.

The filthy truth:

  • Poop from unwashed hands frequently makes people sick.
  • A single gram of poop, about the weight of a paper clip, can contain one trillion germs.
  • Only 63% of people were seen washing their hands after using public restrooms.
  • Nearly half of U.S. adults admit to not washing their hands at other key times, such as before preparing food or eating.
  • Germs often spread when someone coughs or sneezes into their hands and then touches another person or thing (handrails, toys, etc.).

“WOW, a simple, cheap way to keep us all healthy and well – what a deal!!!” declares Dr. Nancy Welch, Health Director, Chesapeake Health Department. “Handwashing helps avoid doctor visits, absences from school, and paying medical bills. Save your money for things that are more fun so you can enjoy every day!”

Scrubbing with soap and water can cut cases of diarrhea by up to 40%, slash missed school days from tummy bugs by nearly 60%, and reduce colds and coughs by more than 20%.

The key is to wash your hands properly. Proper handwashing means scrubbing for at least 20 seconds between the fingers and under the nails. Encourage your kids to properly wash their hands by making it fun with songs or games.

  • Sing “Happy Birthday to You” song twice or the “Alphabet Song.”
  • Put glitter on their hands and pretend it’s germs. They need to get them all!
  • Use colored or scented soap.
  • Get a blacklight and look at hands before (dirty) and after (clean) washing.
  • Print posters or stickers to promote good handwashing habits.

If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. To learn more, visit the VDH Hand Hygiene page or contact our Epidemiology Team at the Chesapeake Health Department. chesapeakeepi@vdh.virginia.gov

 

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The Chesapeake Health Department Rabies Safety and Vax Clinic

September 24, 2025

Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia,gov

The Chesapeake Health Department Rabies Safety and Vax Clinic
World Rabies Day is September 28

CHESAPEAKE, Va. – World Rabies Day is September 28. The Chesapeake Health Department reminds you to avoid contact with strays and wild animals. Even though rabies is nearly 100% fatal, it is highly preventable.

Rabies is commonly found in Virginia in wild animals, such as raccoons, skunks, and foxes. This year, 151 animals tested positive with rabies in Virginia.

“Rabies is 100% preventable, but only if we act.” says Nicole Yirenkyi, Chesapeake Health Department Rabies Program Supervisor. “Vaccinate, educate, and advocate because every life matters.” Virginia law requires all dogs and cats four months of age and older be vaccinated for rabies by a licensed veterinarian. Vaccinations must be kept current.

The Chesapeake Health Department will host a $10 rabies vaccination clinic on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to noon in the parking lot.

  • First come, first served.
  • Dogs and cats are welcome.
  • Cash only.
  • Residency is not required.
  • Pets MUST BE in a crate or on a leash.
  • One year and three-year rabies certificates available with current pet vaccination record.

To protect yourself and your animals from rabies:

  • Do not feed stray animals. Report them to local animal control authorities at Chesapeake Animal Services. 757-382-8181
  • Avoid wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes and skunks. Wild animals are not pets.
  • Do not handle sick, injured or dead animals. Instead, report these animals to the Department of Wildlife Resources. Permitted wildlife rehabilitators are another option.
  • Teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and unfamiliar pets.
  • Feed your pets indoors and do not let them wander.
  • Keep wild animals out of your home by capping chimneys with screens. Block openings in attics, cellars and porches. Ensure trash cans have tight fitting lids.
  • Make sure your pets are vaccinated against rabies and their shots are up to date. By law, all dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies.
  • Talk with your healthcare provider before traveling overseas to see if rabies vaccinations are recommended.

Anyone potentially exposed to a rabid animal should notify their healthcare provider immediately. Exposure includes any bites, scratches or contact with saliva.

If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal, do not panic. Wash animal bite wounds thoroughly with soap and water to decrease the chance of infection. Contact your healthcare provider or the Chesapeake Health Department for further recommendations.

If your pet is attacked or bitten by an animal, contact animal control or The Chesapeake Health Department.

For more information about rabies, visit the Virginia Department of Health Rabies Control webpage.

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The Chesapeake Health Department Provides Services to Reduce Overdose Deaths

August 28, 2025
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

The Chesapeake Health Department Provides Services to Reduce Overdose Deaths
International Overdose Awareness Day is August 31


CHESAPEAKE, Va. – August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day, a day to remember and grieve loved ones who lost their lives to drug overdoses. The Chesapeake Health Department is a key community partner in the fight to prevent drug overdoses by providing support, encouraging recovery and spreading overdose prevention awareness.

Fatal drug overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in Virginia. In 2024, 1,403 Virginians tragically lost their lives to drug overdoses. Chesapeake has experienced 223 local emergency room overdose visits with ten confirmed fatalities since the beginning of 2025.

“Addiction is complex,” Jennifer Hahn, nurse practitioner and certified REVIVE! Trainer, said. “An untreated overdose can lead to severe health consequences or unintentional death. ”

Even experimenting with one pill can kill. The ‘One Pill Can Kill’ campaign has helped raise awareness. REVIVE! gives the community the tools to respond and prevent overdose deaths.

“As both a clinician and a parent, I find it terrifying—no one thinks it can happen to them until it does. If we can prevent even one family from experiencing the preventable loss of a loved one, this public health effort is worth it.” Hahn said.

Chesapeake Health Department overdose prevention services include:

  • Overdose reversal education (REVIVE!),
  • Naloxone kits,
  • Drug test strips,
  • Drug treatment services referrals,
  • HIV and hepatitis testing, and
  • Connections to medical care and support services.

Learn how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose with REVIVE! Training with The Chesapeake Health Department. Visit https://redcap.link/9raczd3i for the training schedule. Rapid REVIVE! Training is also available at the Friday Farmers Market, 70 Knells Ridge Blvd., Chesapeake, Va. Between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

For more information on drug overdose prevention resources, contact The Chesapeake Health Department at (757) 382-8631. You can also email questions to overdose@vdh.virginia.gov.

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It’s Not Just for Kids: The Chesapeake Health Department Encourages Everyone to Stay Up to Date on Immunizations

August 19, 2025
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

It’s Not Just for Kids: The Chesapeake Health Department Encourages Everyone to Stay Up to Date on Immunizations
August is National Immunization Awareness Month

Chesapeake, Va.– Have you ever seen someone with measles or diphtheria? Neither have most doctors practicing in the United States today.  Immunizations have made these and several other serious diseases rare. However, a decline in children receiving immunizations is putting communities at risk again.  During National Immunization Awareness Month, the Chesapeake Health Department reminds people of all ages that staying up to date on immunizations is essential in protecting individuals and their entire community.

As families prepare for the new school year it’s important that parents make sure their children are current on all school requirements for immunization. In Virginia, vaccines are required for school-aged children entering kindergarten, seventh, and 12th grades. Immunization rates for local schools can be found on the Virginia Student Immunization Status Survey.  We encourage you to talk to a healthcare provider about your child’s routine immunizations.

“During my half-century as a physician, I have seen firsthand the devastation of preventable infections, including meningococcal disease, polio, and measles. I have held the hand of mothers who tragically lost their children to these illnesses. Bottomline – Vaccines save lives. Public health saves lives.”

In addition to childhood immunization, the Chesapeake Health Department recommends adults stay up to date on vaccines as well.  Many adults are unaware that immunity from some childhood vaccines can wear off over time.  Adults should talk with their healthcare provider about what is recommended for them based on their age and health.

COVID-19 and Flu vaccines are recommended for all Virginians six months of age and older.  The Respiratory Immunization Dashboard shows how many people living in Chesapeake have received the 2024-2025 COVID-19 and Flu vaccines:

COVID-19 booster Age 6 mos +

9.4%

 Age 5-17

3.3%

 Age 18+

11.6%

 Age 50+

21.1%
Influenza Age 6 mos+

28.7%

 Age 5-17

24.3%

 Age 18+

29.8%

 Age 50+

45.1%

The Chesapeake Health Department wants to make sure that no one falls behind on immunization based on lack of access, information, or money.  The VDH Call Center, (877) VAX-IN-VA (877) 829-4682 (English, Spanish, 100+ languages), can help:

For more information on immunization or to schedule an appointment at the Chesapeake Health Department, please visit: www.vdh.virginia.gov/chesapeake/health-care-services.

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Every Baby Deserves the Best Beginning

August 6, 2025
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

Every Baby Deserves the Best Beginning
The Chesapeake Health Department Supports Moms During National Breastfeeding Month

Chesapeake, Va.– It’s often referred to as “liquid gold” and during August, National Breastfeeding Month, the Chesapeake Health Department is pumping out tips and resources to support new parents and celebrate the benefits of human milk.

Two-time Breastfeeding Gold Award and 2024 WIC Department of the Year recipients, Chesapeake WIC, will celebrate Friday, August 8, from noon to 3:00 p.m. at the Chesapeake Health Department, 748 Battlefield Blvd., Chesapeake. WIC families will enjoy games, giveaways, lactation consultants, and a stroller parade.

Here are eight reasons why breastfeeding is beneficial:

  1. Breast milk helps build babies’ immune systems which protect them from many chronic and acute illnesses.
  2. Parents miss fewer days at work because breastfed babies are not sick as often.
  3. Breastmilk is safe, clean and convenient. No bottles to wash and it’s always with you.
  4. Breastfeeding burns extra calories, making it easier to lose weight gained during pregnancy.
  1. Breastfeeding promotes bonding. When you breastfeed, your body produces more oxytocin known as the “love hormone.” Its calming and stress-reducing effects enhance feelings of love and well-being.
  2. Women who breastfeed reduce their risk for breast and ovarian cancer.
  1. Breastfeeding can save money and the planet. It’s natural and eco-friendly.
  2. Breastmilk changes as your baby grows to meet their nutritional and developmental needs, making it the perfect food.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) recommends infants be breastfed for the first six months of life, with gradual introduction of solid foods at six months. Infants can continue to be breastfed for the first year of life and thereafter as long as mom and baby desire.

Chesapeake Health Department Director, Dr. Nancy Welch, is a staunch supporter of the program and WIC staff. “Excellence doesn’t happen by accident. The well-earned recognition of our Chesapeake WIC staff exemplifies the very definition of public health as a community value. We are here to serve.”

If you want to breastfeed but have questions, are facing barriers or just aren’t comfortable – let us support you.  VDH has lots of resources including:

For more information, visit the VDH Breastfeeding Resource Page or contact The Chesapeake Health department at 757-382-8631.

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Chesapeake Health Department Offer Tips to Make Residential Pools Safe, Prevent Drownings

July 24, 2025
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

Chesapeake Health Department Offer Tips to Make Residential Pools Safe, Prevent Drownings
World Drowning Prevention Day is July 25

CHESAPEAKE, Va. – As World Drowning Prevention Day approaches, the Chesapeake Health Department reminds families that residential pools are the leading location for accidental pool drownings in children under 15 and encourages homeowners to ensure that their pools have proper safety features in place to help reduce the risk of drowning or injury.

According to U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 70% of drownings involving children under age 15 in pools or spas occurred in residential settings. That number grows to 85% for children 0-5 years old.

In Virginia, nine children under age five have accidentally drowned pools in 2025, an increase from the last five years (three in 2024, two in 2023, and four in 2022, eight in 2021 and four in 2020).

“You can never start water safety education too early”, said Dr. Nancy Welch, Health Director, Chesapeake Health Department. “Prevention begins with preparedness. Never swim alone. Actively supervise children and ensure they have properly fitted and approved floatation devices. Pay attention to weather reports and know your surroundings. Swimming is part of summer. Let’s make it fun and safe for all to enjoy for years to come.”

Chesapeake Health Department offers the following tips to increase the safety of your residential pool:

  • Properly fence all pools at least four feet in height around the perimeter of the pool/spa. Use a self-closing and self-latching gate.
  • Use anti-entrapment drain covers. Encourage swimmers to stay away from drains and other pool openings.
  • Always remove portable pool ladders when not in use and when adults are not present.
  • Remove all toys from the pool area that might attract children to the pool when not in use with adult supervision.
  • Install alarms on doors leading from the house to the pool area that will alert you when someone enters the pool area.
  • Empty and put away smaller portable pools after every use. Cover larger portable pools.
  • Make sure your neighbors, babysitters and visitors know about the pool’s presence in your yard.

Drowning is the leading cause of death among children ages one to four. Drownings happen quickly and silently. In Virginia, on average, one person drowns every four days.

Chesapeake Health Department reminds families to:

  • Always watch kids in and around the water – and designate a water watcher.
  • Teach children to swim – or sign them up for swim classes.
  • Know life-saving skills, including CPR for adults and children.

Drowning is the leading cause of death among children ages one to four. Drownings happen quickly and silently. In Virginia, on average, one person drowns every four days.

Visit swimhealthyva.com for more information. Swim safe. Stay safe!

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Rabid Raccoon Discovered in Riverwalk

May 28, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT: Nicole Yirenkyi, (757) 382-8672

Rabid Raccoon Discovered in Riverwalk

 CHESAPEAKE, Va.  – The Chesapeake Health Department recently received a report from Chesapeake Animal Services (CAS) regarding an encounter between a raccoon and a pet dog. The incident occurred on May 18, 2025, in the 200 block of Marsh Island Drive in the Rivercrest neighborhood of Chesapeake, near The River Club Park.

A resident witnessed the encounter between the dog and the raccoon. The raccoon did not survive the incident. Testing confirmed the raccoon as rabies positive. The dog sustained minor injuries and was current on rabies immunizations.

Residents are advised to avoid contact with wildlife in the area, and ensure all pets and livestock are current on vaccinations. State law requires all dogs and cats over the age of four months to be vaccinated against rabies. The City of Chesapeake requires all dogs and cats over four months of age to be licensed.

Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. It kills almost any mammal or human that gets sick from it. The rabies virus is mainly in the saliva and brain of rabid animals. It can be transmitted through a bite or getting saliva or brain tissue in a wound, eye, nose, or mouth.

Rabies is rare in currently vaccinated animals.

Rabies is highly preventable if the vaccine is given early and as recommended. Unfortunately, without preventive treatment, by the time someone develops symptoms of rabies, there is no cure, and the disease is fatal in almost 100% of cases”, said Dr. Nancy Welch, health director for the Chesapeake Health Department. To prevent rabies in dogs and cats, keep them up to date on their rabies vaccinations.

The health director strongly emphasizes the following recommendations for Chesapeake residents to take in protecting their families and their pets from rabies:

– If your pet and/or livestock has been in contact with an animal that might be rabid, check for injuries and contact the Chesapeake Animal Control at (757) 382-8080.

– Seek medical treatment promptly for any animal bite to ensure appropriate and timely evaluation and treatment. All animal exposures must be taken seriously.

– Do not approach wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, or skunks. If you think a wild animal needs help, call the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance

– Bring stray domestic animals, especially if they appear ill or injured, to the attention of local animal control authorities. If you think a stray animal needs help, contact your local animal control office for guidance.

– Have your veterinarian vaccinate your dogs, cats, ferrets, and selected livestock. Keep the vaccinations up to date. Consult your veterinarian or the Chesapeake Health Department if you have any questions about pet vaccinations.

– Confine your pets and livestock to your property.

– Securely seal garbage containers with lids.

For more information on rabies, contact:

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Chesapeake Health Department Farmers Market Opens For 9th Season  

April 30, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT: Kimi Stevens
kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

Chesapeake Health Department Farmers Market Opens For 9th Season

CHESAPEAKE, Va. – The Chesapeake Health Department Friday Farmers Market will open on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 70 Knells Ridge Blvd. Chesapeake. The market is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. every Friday from May through October, weather permitting.

The market originally started in the health department parking lot in 2017 with a single farmer, aimed at serving WIC participants and staff. The market has since grown to more than 20 vendors and food trucks in a more visible location at the corner of Knells Ridge Blvd. and Buckley, across from the newly opened VA North Battlefield Outpatient Clinic (behind Chesapeake Regional Healthcare).

The market focuses on locally grown, in season produce, along with traditional market fare including baked goods, fresh eggs, honey, jams, free range chickens, snacks, dog treats, natural beauty products, homemade canned items, and more. Rotating food trucks offer a variety of flavors from coffee to lunch fare. All items are made by local small business vendors, many of whom got their start at the health department Wednesday market.

“The health department farmers market was the first place that gave me the opportunity to showcase my skills as a cottage baker. It also boosted my confidence to expand into larger markets.” said Elisabeth Hernandez of L’s Sourdough, a staple of last year’s market.

“Being accepted into this market was a significant milestone in starting and growing my business. It allowed me to see what works and what doesn’t, while also ensuring that customers know their support goes directly to me and my family. It truly means a lot to us that people keep returning.”

The market is the brainchild of Kimi Stevens, Public Relations Coordinator and Market Manager. “Fresh food is medicine. We chose to embrace an all of public health approach to support our client’s health and improve access to nutrition in a community setting.” said Stevens. “Many of our farmers accept WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program benefits, as well as SNAP/EBT and Virginia Fresh Match.”

The concept of hosting an embedded farmers market to improve population health in a medically vulnerable area was also recognized by the National Association of City and County Health Professionals (NACCHO). Stevens, along with Chesapeake Health Director, Dr. Nancy Welch, and Michelle Kekeh, PhD, MS, Clinical Professor and Interim Director of the Center for Global Health at the Joint School of Public Health, Macon and Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at ODU, were invited to present on the success of the market at the annual NACCHO360 Conference in Anaheim, California in July.

Produce vendors are still being accepted. Please contact Kimi Stevens at kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.com for more information.

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