Tag: COVID-19 vaccine

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.

LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts Offering Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine

August 19, 2022

Media Contact:
Allie Phillips, population health manager, allison.phillips@vdh.virginia.gov, (276)-415-3360

LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts  Offering Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine 

WISE, Va. – The Lenowisco and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts will now offer a fourth vaccine choice for individuals in the community who are seeking a COVID-19 vaccine. On July 19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approved the administration of the two-dose Novavax COVID-19 vaccine for the primary series for adults aged 18 years and older. 

The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine gives individuals who may have an allergic reaction to mRNA vaccines or have a personal preference for receiving a vaccine other than one based on the mRNA technology, a new option for vaccination. 

“This new COVID-19 vaccination option is another important tool we are able to offer in our quest to combat this virus”, said Allie Phillips, population health manager, LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts. “This addition expands the options for adults to receive a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. It is especially important for those individuals who may have previously been reluctant to get vaccinated against this potentially deadly virus. As we continue to see cases rise throughout our communities, vaccination is critical to help protect against the complications of severe COVID-19.”

Beginning August 22, this vaccine will be available at all health departments within both districts. If you are interested in receiving Novavax, please call your local health department to schedule an appointment. 

LENOWISCO Health District:

Lee County Health Department – 276-346-2011

Scott County Health Department – 276-386-1312

Wise County & City of Norton Health Department – 276-328-8000

 

Cumberland Plateau Health District:

Buchanan County Health Department – 276-935-4591

Dickenson County Health Department – 276-926-4979

Russell County Health Department – 276-889-7621

Tazewell County Health Department – 276-988-5585

Everyone 6 months and older is eligible to be vaccinated against COVID-19. LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts encourage all Virginians to get their vaccination if they haven’t already done so. For more information on COVID-19 in Virginia, visit vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus.