Tag: Cumberland Plateau Health District

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Stress Importance of Oral Health

April 21, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Stress Importance of Oral Health
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

WISE, Va. – This month, the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts want to remind every adult to get screened for oral cancer. Like other cancer screenings, oral cancer screenings are an effective means of finding cancer at its early, highly curable stages. Early detection is the first step toward a successful treatment.

“Oral health is a vital part of overall health and well-being; and oral cancer screenings are a simple but powerful tool to catch problems early when they are most treatable,” said Reisa Sloce, district director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “When we make time for prevention and screening, we’re not just protecting ourselves—we’re strengthening the health of our families and our entire community.”

The use of tobacco and alcohol is a leading cause of oral cancer because it leads to damage of the DNA of cells inside your mouth and throat. Another cause is through exposure to human papillomavirus virus (HPV). The quickest growing segment of the oral cancer population is young, healthy, non-smokers due to the connection to this HPV.

Self-examinations can also help detect oral cancer. Consult a healthcare provider if you find any of the following conditions:

  • A sore on your lip or in your mouth that doesn’t heal.
  • Unusual bleeding, pain or numbness in your mouth.
  • Difficulty or pain when chewing or swallowing.

To help prevent oral cancer, your local health department suggests these steps:

  • Limit Alcohol Use: Limiting your intake to no more than two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women can lower your risk.
  • Avoid Tobacco: Never using or quitting tobacco, to include cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, cigars, and/or pipes, reduces your risk.
  • Avoid HPV Infection: Talk to your healthcare provider about the HPV vaccination. The vaccine can prevent new infections of certain types of HPV associated with oral cancer.
  • Eat Healthy: Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables in your diet. These foods contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
  • Get Regular Checkups: Visit your healthcare provider and dentist regularly. The earlier oral cancer is found, the greater your chances of beating it.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Dental Health Program is designed to improve equitable access to dental care and public health interventions through community-based prevention programs.

To learn more about the Dental Health Program at VDH, contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District at 276-328-8000.

April 20, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge Community Action During Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month

WISE, Va. – April is Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month and the Virginia Department of Health’s Cumberland Plateau and LENOWICO Health Districts want you to know the critical importance of healthy lifestyles, immunizations, regular screenings, and early detection in reducing cancer risk and improving outcomes for Virginians.

“In communities across Virginia, especially in our rural areas, we know that the strongest defense against cancer starts with everyday choices and access to preventive care,” said Reisa Sloce, director, Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts.  “Healthy lifestyles, staying up to date on immunizations, and getting regular screenings are critically important tools that can reduce risk and catch cancers early—when it they are most treatable. By prioritizing prevention and early detection, we can improve outcomes, save lives, and build healthier futures for all Virginians.”

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Virginia. Locally, Cumberland Plateau experiences 324.5 cancer cases and 190.3 cancer deaths per 100,000.  The LENOWISCO Health District experiences 317 cancer cases and 207.6 cancer deaths per 100,000.  The most common cancers in Virginia include breast, lung, colorectal, and prostate cancer.

Early detection through screening improves survival rates. Yet disparities persist in screening rates and outcomes among different communities.

The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts offer the following programs to help our community prevent cancer or lead to early diagnosis

Additionally, Cumberland Plateau and LENOWICO Health Department offers these prevention and early detection tips:

  • Get regular screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancer as recommended by your healthcare provider.
  • Get vaccinated with the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. HPV vaccination prevents six different types of cancers from ever developing.
  • Eat a healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight, and stay physically active.
  • Avoid tobacco use and limit alcohol consumption.
  • Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure.

To learn more about VDH cancer prevention programs, eligibility for free screenings, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/cancer/resources/ or call 1-800-CDC-INFO. For more information contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District at 276-328-8000.

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Celebrate Physical Wellness Month

April 16, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts
Celebrate Physical Wellness Month
Take Steps to Be Your Healthiest Self

WISE, Va. – Spring has sprung and Physical Wellness Month offers the opportunity to plant seeds for better health. Your local health department encourages residents to prioritize their health in April.

“April is Physical Wellness Month, and it’s a reminder that taking care of our bodies doesn’t require a gym membership or a major lifestyle overhaul,” said Reisa Sloce, director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Here in our community, small, consistent steps—like walking more, choosing nourishing foods, and making time for rest—can have a powerful impact on our health. In rural areas especially, we know access can be a challenge, but we are blessed in southwest Virginia to have an abundance of beautiful trails and outdoor opportunities; wellness starts where you are, with what you have. This month, we encourage every resident to find simple, sustainable ways to move more and feel better—because a healthier community begins with each of us.”

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Departments suggest two steps to be your healthiest self.

Living a Healthy Lifestyle

Wellness is an active process of growth and change that involves choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life. You can improve your health with these choices:

  • Active Lifestyle: In Virginia, 9% adults reported that they had not participated in any physical activity in the past month. Physical activity improves brain health, cognition, anxiety, depression, quality of life, and sleep. For your wellness, adults should get 150 minutes a week of moderate activity.
  • Eat Nutritious Food: Good nutrition is key to growing healthy bodies and preventing disease. Only 7% of Virginia’s adults reported eating fruit at least twice a day. Your local health department can assist you in finding programs that focus on education and finding healthy affordable foods for your family.
  • Avoid Tobacco Use: Smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death and disability in the United States. The VDH Tobacco Use Data Dashboard shows 18.48% of residents living in the LENOWISCO Health District and 11.86% living in the Cumberland Plateau Health District were current smokers. In 2023, 6.67% of residents in LENOWISCO and 9.15% in Cumberland Plateau used smokeless tobacco and 9.40% in LENOWISCO and 5.60% in Cumberland Plateau used E-Cigarettes. Quitting smoking has health benefits at any age, no matter how long or how much you have smoked. Tobacco Cessation programs, like Quit Now Virginia and Vape Free VA help people live tobacco free.

Good health grows over time. To find out more about programs to prioritize your health, contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District at 276-328-8000.

Cumberland Plateau Health District Nurse Named Southwest Regional Nurse of the Year

March 20, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, PIO, daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau Health District Nurse Named Southwest Regional Nurse of the Year

LEBANON, Va. — The Virginia Department of Health’s Cumberland Plateau Health District is proud to announce that the Virginia Department of Health’s Regional Nurse of the Year has been awarded to Amy Adkins from the Russell County Health Department.

Amy Adkins has served as a nurse supervisor for Dickenson and Russell counties since 2019. She has also served as a supervisor for some of the district’s health educators and outreach workers over the last two years.

“Ms. Adkins is known for being kind, compassionate, and willing to listen,” said Reisa Sloce, director of the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “She is a leader and works to implement systems to reduce and eliminate barriers to make programs and services as easily accessible as possible. Her efforts ensure all members of the community are equitably served. Ms. Adkins is highly motivated and is a great resource for our community. She truly demonstrates what it means to have a servant’s heart.”

Adkins is an advocate for protecting the health and promoting the well-being of residents throughout the community. She is an advocate for population health improvement and for individual patient care. Adkins manages the Family Access to Medical Insurance Security Plan (FAMIS) Outreach grant program, the Resource Mothers program, and the Project AIM (adult identity mentoring) program for the district. She works diligently to improve customer service in clinical programs for the most vulnerable populations. Adkins also demonstrates her exceptional leadership abilities whether leading a team, an office, or working alongside her colleagues.

In her personal life, Adkins provides end-of-life nursing care for families and is very active in her home church. She also volunteers with community organizations to meet the needs of individuals and families who are struggling with unexpected circumstances.

Cumberland Plateau Health District thanks Amy for her dedicated service and congratulates her for being chosen as the Southwest Regional Nurse of the Year. Amy will go on to compete for the State Nurse of the Year award in May.

Cumberland Plateau & LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge You to Plan Ahead for Spring Severe Weather Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 9-13

March 10, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau & LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge You to Plan Ahead for Spring Severe Weather
Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 9-13

WISE, 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 Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge you to plan ahead before storms strike.

“As we head into the spring season, it’s important for everyone to take a few simple steps now to be ready for severe weather,” said Reisa Sloce, District Director Cumberland Plateau & LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Storms can develop quickly, bringing heavy rain, flooding, and power outages. I encourage residents to review their emergency plans, check their supplies, and stay informed through trusted local alerts. Preparing ahead of time helps protect not only your family, but also your neighbors and community.”

Spring storms can bring a variety of severe weather hazards including tornadoes, thunderstorms with lightning and flooding. Here are some tips from your local health department 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 Delilah McFadden with the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or Darrin Rowe with the LENOWISCO Health District at 276-386-1312.

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Offer Safety Tips to Stay Warm During Extreme Cold

January 29, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Offer Safety Tips to Stay Warm During Extreme Cold

WISE, Va. – As southwest Virginia continues to see dangerously cold temperatures, hypothermia and frostbite are real concerns. The Virginia Department of Health’s Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge you to take steps to keep you and your family warm, dry, and healthy throughout this winter season.

“Even if you’re a cautious winter driver, it’s helpful to prepare for any scenario, from a flat tire to sliding off the road,” said Reisa Sloce, Director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Emergency preparedness is even more critical during the winter, with freezing temperatures that can become dangerous if you’re stranded for too long.”

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 Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts encourage 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/

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

  • Stay at home and avoid travel. 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.
  • Have a winter emergency kit inside your car that includes:
    • Ice scraper
    • Warmth items such as blankets, extra gloves, etc.
    • Portable shovel
    • Flashlight
    • Extra batteries and a cell phone charger
    • A first aid kit
    • Jumper cables
    • A small container of sand or kitty litter for traction
    • Nonperishable food and water
    • Items for handling a flat tire

If you have chronic health conditions, please reach out to your healthcare provider to work together and ensure 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, contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at (276) 889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District at (276) 328-8000.

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm

January 23, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, PIO; Daniel.Hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts Urge the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm

WISE, Va. – A significant winter storm is expected to impact our community this weekend. The storm will arrive as snow Saturday afternoon and pick up overnight Saturday into Sunday continuing through the day.   An increase in sleet/freezing rain potential will complicate the forecast. The increased freezing rain probabilities amplify the concern for power outages. The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge everyone to prepare now to keep you and your family safe, warm and healthy during this storm.

“We strongly encourage everyone to take the time to prepare for severe winter weather this weekend,” said Reisa Sloce, District Director of Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts.  “It is important to check on your family and friends as well as any elderly community members to make sure they are prepared before the storm and safe during and after. We want you to stay warm, safe and healthy!”

Before the Storm

Before the storm arrives, the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts urge 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.

For more information, contact the Cumberland Plateau Health District at 276-889-7621 or the LENOWISCO Health District 276-328-8000.

Cumberland Plateau Health District Receives Grants to Support Rural Health Care Services

September 22, 2025
Media Contact: Victoria Bartfai, victoria.bartfai@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau Health District Receives Grants to Support Rural Health Care Services
$2.2 Million Awarded to Benefit Southwest Virginia Mothers and Infants

TAZEWELL, Va. – The Virginia Rural Health Association (VRHA), serving as the backbone organization for the Cumberland Plateau Perinatal Health Network (CPPHN), has been awarded two major grants from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to strengthen maternal and infant health services across Southwest Virginia. The following grants were awarded to the Virginia Rural Health Association to support the expanding efforts of the Cumberland Plateau Perinatal Health Network:

  • HRSA Rural Health Care Services Outreach Program – $300,000 per year for four years, awarded specifically to the Cumberland Plateau Health District (Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell, and Tazewell counties). This funding will support expanded prenatal and postpartum care, workforce investments, and innovative outreach programs designed to improve access and outcomes for mothers and babies in rural communities.
  • Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies (RMOMS) – $1,000,000 for the first award year (renewable for up to four years), awarded to serve the broader Southwest Virginia region, including the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. The Network will coordinate this effort to expand perinatal services, train and deploy community health workers and doulas, integrate telehealth systems, and strengthen coordination among healthcare providers.

“It is such an honor to be selected as an RMOMS grantee,” said Beth O’Connor, Executive Director of the Virginia Rural Health Association. “Our tiniest Virginians deserve to have every opportunity for a healthy life.”

“We are honored to have received these two grants that will provide mothers and children with the vital resources needed to benefit their overall health and well-being.” said Victoria Bartfai, Maternal and Child Health Coordinator for the Cumberland Plateau Health District.

Both awards will be used to address the on-going health disparities throughout the region, including high rates of substance use during pregnancy, geographic isolation, and limited access to maternity care. Through these investments, the Cumberland Plateau Perinatal Health Network will help fill existing gaps, strengthen partnerships, and lay the foundation for long-term improvements in maternal and perinatal health.

This achievement reflects the collaborative efforts of the Cumberland Plateau Title V team, Virginia Department of Health’s Central Office Title V team, the Institute for Public Health Innovation, and VRHA.

To view the data on maternal and child health outcomes, visit the Virginia maternal and child health overview dashboard at https://dashboards.mysidewalk.com/vdh-mch-dashboard/impact-of-maternal-and-child-health

Cumberland Plateau Health District Reports Rabies Confirmed in Bat

August 6, 2025
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsuker, Daniel.Hunsuker@vdh.viirginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau Health District Reports Rabies Confirmed in Bat
Residents should report any possible human or animal contact
with any suspected rabid animal

BISHOP, Va. – The Tazewell County Health Department reports a bat from the Bishop area in Tazewell County tested positive for rabies on August 4. There was a known exposure, and the patient is undergoing preventive rabies vaccination treatment. This is the first confirmed case of animal rabies in Tazewell County and in the Cumberland Plateau Health District this year.

Reports of potential exposures to bats have been increasing and the health department wants to remind residents of the importance to report any exposure to a bat or other potential rabid animal to the local health department.

If you, a member of your household, or your pets are bitten by or possibly exposed to a bat or other potential rabid animal — including saliva that gets into your eyes, nose, mouth, or wounds, wash the affected area thoroughly and get medical attention immediately.

Bats have small teeth that may leave marks not easily seen. Although many people know if they have been bitten by a bat, there are certain circumstances when a person might not be aware or able to tell if they have been bitten. Be aware if a bat is discovered anywhere within a home, especially if it is found in a room with an unattended child or near a person with a disability. In these circumstances, a person should seek medical attention and have the bat tested for rabies.

The Tazewell County Health Department also 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 blocking 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. For more information, contact the Tazewell County Health Department at (276) 988-5585 or visit https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/animal-contact-human-health/rabies-control/

Cumberland Plateau Health District Wants to Make Sure Your Child is Ready for School

August 1, 2025
Media Contact: Michelle McPheron, michelle.mcpheron@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau Health District Wants to Make Sure
Your Child is Ready for School
 Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell Health Departments
Holding Vaccination Clinics

LEBANON, VA. – Setting your kids up for success this school year means making sure they have all the tools they need, including vaccines to protect against preventable diseases such as meningitis, measles, pertussis (whooping cough) and others. Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell health departments are making it easy to get these required immunizations at a clinic held this month. School and sports physicals appointments are also available.

Virginia schools require immunizations for entry into kindergarten, seventh grade, and 12th grade.

Keeping children up to date on vaccinations can reduce severe illnesses, and unnecessary absences from school and work saving your family time and money.

“Vaccines are an important tool for keeping our children and communities healthy. School required vaccines are available at all our local health departments. Adolescent school required vaccines for rising 7th graders and rising 12th graders will also be available at the Dickenson County Back to School Bash on August 1,” said Reisa Sloce, LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts director.

Vaccines are safe and effective and are your child’s best defense against infectious disease. Measles is a recent example. The highly contagious disease that was declared eliminated in the year 2000 is experiencing a surge in the U.S. with more than 1,200 cases reported so far this year, including three cases in Virginia.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) encourages parents to talk with their child’s health care provider about recommended vaccinations. Vaccines are available through your pediatrician, pharmacies, and all local health departments. You will want to check in advance to see if appointments may be necessary.

Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell health departments offer school-required immunizations free of charge by appointment during regular clinic hours Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Please be sure to bring a copy of your child’s vaccination record. If you don’t have it, you can request the record here. If you have health insurance, please also bring your insurance card. Children who are uninsured can still be vaccinated at low or no cost through the Virginia Vaccines for Children (VVFC) program which offers free vaccines to eligible children.

For more information, please contact your local health department: Buchanan County: 276-935-4591, Dickenson County: 276-926-4979, Russell County: 276-889-7621, or Tazewell County: 276-988-5585.