Tag: chesapeake health department

 The Friday Farmers Market 10th Season Opens April 3  

March 31, 2026
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

 The Friday Farmers Market 10th Season Opens April 3  

CHESAPEAKE, Va. –  The Chesapeake Health Department’s Friday Farmers Market returns on April 3 for its 10th season, bringing fresh, local nutrition and a few giveaways to the community.

The market, located at 70 Knells Ridge Blvd, is open every Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., weather permitting, from April through November.

“The Friday Farmers Market is a place of healing through nutrition,” said Dr. Nancy Welch, health director for the Chesapeake Health Department. “It is a happy place where people and pets can come together and improve their physical and mental health. I am their biggest supporter!”

On opening day, Chesapeake Master Gardeners will give away free seeds and seedlings.

Vendors offer fresh meat, eggs, honey, baked goods, and more. Some accept nutrition benefits, including SNAP/EBT, Virginia Fresh Match, WIC, and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program vouchers.

You’ll also find community partners, including Chesapeake Animal Services, Chesapeake Mosquito Control, and Chesapeake Integrated Behavioral Health, to provide information and education.

REVIVE! Narcan training is offered twice a month. It teaches people how to recognize an opioid overdose and how to reverse it with the Narcan nasal spray.

The market was first opened in 2017 to serve Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) clients, staff, and the public. The demand soon outgrew the original space with the addition of over 20 vendors.

According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture Services, food sold at Virginia farmers’ markets travels fewer than 50 miles to reach consumers. That’s compared to the national average of 1,200 miles.

The fewer miles your food travels, the fresher it can be and the more it supports local farmers and a healthier community.

For more information on the Friday Farmers Market, contact Kimi Stevens at 757-382-8650.

 

 

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Chesapeake Health Department Urges You to Plan Ahead for Spring Severe Weather

March 11, 2026
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

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.

Spring storms can bring a variety of severe weather hazards including tornadoes, thunderstorms with lightning, and flooding. The Chesapeake Health Department offers tips to keep you safe during severe weather events.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes can form with little or no warning and bring winds more than 200 miles per hour.

If you are indoors:

  • Go to a basement or storm shelter.
  • If you do not have a basement, choose an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor, away from windows.
  • Do not stay in a mobile home.
  • Remain sheltered until you are sure the storm has passed.

If you are outdoors:

  • Seek shelter in a sturdy building immediately.
  • If driving, go to the nearest safe structure if possible.
  • If no shelter is available, lie in a low area away from trees and objects that could become airborne.
  • Do not shelter under bridges or overpasses.

Thunderstorms and Lightning

Thunderstorms can form quickly, bringing strong winds and dangerous lightning. Lightning can strike up to 10 miles from a storm.

 

 

To stay safe:

  • Trim trees and secure loose outdoor items before storms.
  • Go indoors at the first sign of thunder or lightning and bring pets inside.
  • Stay away from windows.
  • Avoid using electronics or anything plugged into an outlet.
  • Stay out of showers and away from plumbing.
  • Remain indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last thunder.

If you cannot get indoors, avoid water, tall trees, and metal objects such as fences or bleachers. If someone is struck by lightning, call 911 immediately.

Flooding

Floods are the most common disaster in the United States. Floodwater can contain debris, chemicals, and other hazards.

Key safety reminders:

  • Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwater. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
  • Six inches of moving water can knock you down; one foot can sweep away a vehicle.
  • Avoid bridges over fast‑moving water.

Severe Weather Awareness Week is an opportunity for you to review safety plans, refresh emergency kits, and learn how to stay informed before storms strike. Severe weather can develop quickly. Taking simple steps now can help protect you and your family.

  • Have a plan. Talk with your family about where to go and what to do if severe weather occurs. Make sure everyone knows the safest places in your home and how to communicate during an emergency. You can create a family emergency plan online.
  • Build an emergency kit. A disaster supplies kit includes the basic items your household may need if you must shelter in place for several days. This may include water, non‑perishable food, flashlights, batteries, medications, and important documents. Guidance on what to include and where to store your kit is available at gov.
  • Stay informed. Reliable alerts save lives. Use a weather radio, the FEMA app, or local alert systems to receive timely warnings. Check the settings on your mobile device to ensure you can receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs). Make sure you understand the difference between watches and warnings so you know when to take action.

If you have questions about weather safety, please contact the Chesapeake Health Department at 757-382-8650

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Holding Ground on Maternal Health

January 23, 2026
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

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.

A simple start to a healthy pregnancy for all women of childbearing age is to take a daily supplement with folic acid. Folic acid will help reduce the risk of birth defects to a baby’s spine and brain.

In 2022, 67 women in Virginia died from pregnancy-associated causes.  Pregnancy-associated means during or up to one year after pregnancy, regardless of the cause of death or outcome of the pregnancy. The mortality rate for Black and Hispanic women is twice that of white women.

“As a pediatrician, I am encouraged to see the focus on maternal health,” said Dr. Nancy Welch, Director, Chesapeake Health Department. “Early support of mothers during pregnancy has significantly improved birth outcomes and post-partum success. Studies also show that prevention and pre-natal care have a positive impact on the long-term cost of health care across the board.”

VDH is working hard to reduce the number of maternal deaths, as well as avoidable health complications that families face. The Chesapeake Health Department offers a variety of pregnancy and postpartum resources to support families and physicians.

Virginia WIC provides nutrition education, breastfeeding promotion and support, supplemental nutritious foods, counseling at WIC clinics, and screening and referrals to other health, welfare, and social services to improve the health of pregnant women, infants and children. WIC – Women, Infants and Children – Chesapeake Health District

In Virginia, nine home visiting models are available to eligible families. These models are free services where trained professionals visit expectant and new families in their homes. They provide personalized support, parenting guidance, health and development checks, and connections to community resources, including improved access to food and employment. Families can visit the Early Impact Virginia (EIV) directory to get connected to services.

BabyCare Home Visitation connects you with registered nurses, offering resources, personal support and experienced care in-home, online, by text and phone from pregnancy until your baby is two years old. BabyCare – Chesapeake Health District

If you are feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, reach out to the Chesapeake Health Department BayCare Team at at (757) 382-8652 or email ChesapeakeBabyCare@vdh.virginia.gov. Staff are available to help guide families toward a healthier pregnancy.

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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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