Tag: flu

Virginia Health Officials Report the First Pediatric Flu Death of the 2025–2026 Season

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – January 15, 2026
Media Contact:  Brookie Crawford, brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov

Virginia Health Officials Report the First Pediatric Flu Death of the 2025–2026 Season

RICHMOND, Va. – Today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is reporting the first influenza-associated pediatric death for the 2025–26 influenza (flu) season in Virginia. Sadly, a preschool-age child (0-4 years) in VDH’s Eastern Region died from complications associated with flu. To protect the family’s privacy, VDH will not provide any additional information about the child.

“We at the Virginia Department of Health, are broken hearted and extend our sympathies to the family of this child during this difficult time,” said State Health Commissioner Karen Shelton, MD. “Even though the flu is common, it can cause serious illness and even death. I urge everyone who is eligible to receive the flu vaccine to do so not only to protect themselves, but to protect those around them.”

VDH recommends the following tips to prevent the flu:

  • Most people aged six months and older should receive an annual flu vaccine. Consult your healthcare provider as needed.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or the inside of your elbow rather than your open hand.
  • Stay at home when you feel sick.

People at increased risk for flu complications should speak with a healthcare provider when symptoms begin to see if antiviral treatment is recommended. Treatment works best when started within two days after symptoms begin. Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms become severe.

As of January 10, the level of respiratory illnesses is moderate in Virginia. Although flu activity has been trending down in recent weeks, flu season is far from over. Virginia is still reporting surges in emergency department (ED) visits (5.4% or 4,676 visits) for flu. To date, flu outbreaks have significantly impacted daycares/Pre-K facilities, schools, and long-term care facilities.

Influenza A(H3N2) viruses are the most frequently reported viruses in circulation so far this season. A new influenza A(H3N2) subclade, named “subclade K”, was identified in August, and differs from the H3N2 component in this season’s flu vaccine. Vaccine effectiveness against subclade K might be reduced, but the vaccine is still expected to protect against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. The vaccine also provides protection against other circulating strains of flu.

With flu activity elevated in Virginia, now is still a good time to get a flu vaccine if you have not already. Less than 30% of eligible Virginians reported receiving a flu vaccine this season. Vaccination is particularly important for people who are at higher risk of serious complications from flu. Flu vaccines are available at pharmacies, medical offices, some federally qualified health care centers, and local health departments. To learn more, visit the Vaccine Provider Locator.

Last season was the deadliest flu season on record for children in the United States; approximately half of the children who died from influenza did not having an underlying medical condition and 89% were not up to date with recommended flu vaccinations. CDC estimated that during the 2024–25 season, influenza vaccination prevented:

  • 4 million flu-related illnesses;
  • 4 million flu-related medical visits;
  • 170,000 flu-related hospitalizations; and
  • 12,000 flu-related deaths.

VDH’s Respiratory Illness dashboard will be next updated January 20.

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Respiratory Illnesses Are High in Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District

January 9, 2026
Media Contact: Dr Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov.

Respiratory Illnesses Are High in Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District
Health Officials Say It’s Not Too Late to Get Vaccinated

WARRENTON, Va. – Respiratory virus activity is high and increasing, particularly for RSV, Flu viruses in Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District. Health officials say it’s not too late to get vaccinate. Vaccination is key to preventing severe illness and reducing hospitalizations during peak season.

As of January 2026, the level of respiratory illnesses is moderate to high in Virginia. Virginia reported 8.1% of all visits of all emergency department (ED) visits were for respiratory illnesses. Northwest Region: High (21.8% of ED visits) Respiratory Illness Level. During the week ending 1/3/2026, there were 29 visits (1.47% of all ED visits) for diagnosed RSV among Rappahannock Rapidan residents. During the week ending 1/3/2026, there were 190 visits (9.64% of all ED visits) for diagnosed Flu among Rappahannock Rapidan residents.

“Respiratory virus activity is increasing and continuing to increase across the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District, particularly for RSV and influenza,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “It is not too late to get vaccinated. Vaccination remains our most effective tool to prevent severe illness and reduce hospitalizations during peak respiratory virus season.”

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, call the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Health Department at www.rrhd.org or visit the VDH flu page.

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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.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Provides Tips for Safe, Healthy Holiday Travel

December 23, 2025
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Provides Tips for Safe, Healthy Holiday Travel
Plan Ahead for a Healthy and Safe Holiday

WARRENTON, Va. – As you and your family prepare to travel during the holiday season, the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District reminds you to take important steps now to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy. Holiday travel and festive gatherings can increase the risk of spreading infectious diseases and encountering unexpected emergencies.

“The holidays are a time for joy and togetherness, let’s keep it that way by practicing safe food handling,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “Simple steps like proper handwashing, cooking foods to the right temperature, and prompt refrigeration can prevent illness and keep everyone healthy.”

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District shares these tips to healthy and safe holiday travel:

  • Check Immunization Status: To check your immunization status, call your healthcare provider or request records through the VDH Record Request Portal. Make sure you are up-to-date on all of your recommended vaccines. Measles and other infectious diseases can spread quickly in a large group of unvaccinated people. Bring a copy of your official immunization records with you when you travel.
  • Prevent Seasonal Illnesses: Protect yourself and your loved ones from respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV by doing three little things: washing your hands, covering your cough and getting vaccinated. Everyone aged six months and older should get a flu shot every year, with a few exceptions. Talk to a healthcare provider about which vaccines are recommended for you and your family.
  • Monitor Travel Advisories: Check current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Department of State travel advisories before departure.
  • Pack Smart: Pack enough prescription medications for the entire trip, plus extra in case of delays. Keep medications in their original containers and carry them in your hand luggage. Pack a travel health kit.
  • Stay Home if Sick: Postpone your travel and stay home when you are sick. Consider purchasing trip cancellation insurance to cover expenses if you must change your plans due to illness.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Health Department wishes everyone a safe, healthy, and festive holiday season. For more travel tips, contact The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at www.rrhd.org.

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Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Provide Tips for Safe, Healthy Holiday Travel

December 19, 2025
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Provide Tips for Safe, Healthy Holiday Travel
Plan Ahead for a Healthy and Safe Holiday

RICHMOND, Va. – As you and your family prepare to travel during the holiday season, Richmond and Henrico Health District (RHHD) remind you to take important steps now to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy. Holiday travel and festive gatherings can increase the risk of spreading infectious diseases and encountering unexpected emergencies.

“Gathering with friends and family is one of the highlights of the holiday season,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “When we take steps like checking our immunization status, preventing seasonal illness, and making smart travel decisions, we protect our health and the health of our loved ones. Have a safe and memorable holiday, whether you are traveling or staying close to home.”

RHHD shares these tips to healthy and safe holiday travel:

  • Check Immunization Status: To check your immunization status, call your healthcare provider or request records through the VDH Record Request Portal. Make sure you are up-to-date on all of your recommended vaccines. Measles and other infectious diseases can spread quickly in a large group of unvaccinated people.
  • Prevent Seasonal Illnesses: Protect yourself and your loved ones from respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV by doing three little things: washing your hands, covering your cough and getting vaccinated. Everyone aged six months and older should get a flu shot every year, with a few exceptions. Talk to a healthcare provider about which vaccines are recommended for you and your family.
  • Monitor Travel Advisories: Check current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Department of State travel advisories before departure.
  • Pack Smart: Pack enough prescription medications for the entire trip, plus extra in case of delays. Keep medications in their original containers and carry them in your hand luggage. Pack a travel health kit.
  • Stay Home if Sick: Postpone your travel and stay home when you are sick. Consider purchasing trip cancellation insurance to cover expenses if you must change your plans due to illness.

RHHD wishes everyone a safe, healthy, and festive holiday season. Visit rhhd.gov for more travel tips and health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook.

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Crater Health District Shares Three ‘Little Things’ to Keep Your Family Healthy This Holiday Season

December 18, 2025
Media Contact: Tara Rose, Tara.Rose@vdh.virginia.gov

Crater Health District Shares Three ‘Little Things’ to Keep Your Family Healthy This Holiday Season
Give the Gift of Protection from Respiratory Viruses

PETERSBURG, Va. – As families gather for holiday meals, shopping trips, and festive traditions, it’s important to keep health at the top of your wish list. You can protect yourself and your loved ones from respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV by doing three simple things. Crater Health District reminds you to wash your hands, cover your coughs and sneezes, and get immunized this holiday season. The best gift you can give is good health.

“During the busy holiday season, small habits can make a big difference,” said Crater District Health Director Dr. Alton Hart, Jr., “Washing your hands often, covering coughs and sneezes, and getting vaccinated are three simple steps that help keep our families and communities healthy this season.”

Washing Hands

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

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

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

Covering Your Cough

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

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

Getting Immunized

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

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

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

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

For more information about how to stay healthy during respiratory illness season and all year round, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/epidemiology/respiratory-diseases-in-virginia/ or Services & Programs – Crater Health District.To request COVID-19 and Flu test kits call 804-347-2782.

 

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

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

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

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

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

Washing Hands

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

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

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

Covering Your Cough

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

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

Getting Immunized

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

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

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

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

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

RHHD Encourages the ‘Little Things’ to Protect Against Respiratory Illnesses This Fall

RICHMOND, Va. – You can protect yourself and your family this fall from respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) by doing some simple little things. Richmond and Henrico Health Districts share three little things for a healthy fall: washing your hands, covering your coughs and sneezes, and getting immunized.

“Immunization is the most effective way to prevent serious infections from flu, COVID-19, and RSV,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “It’s also important to remember basic public health prevention measures such as hand washing and covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze to reduce the chances of spreading all respiratory viruses.”

Washing Hands

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

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

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

Covering Your Cough

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

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

Getting Immunized

Everyone aged six months and older should get a flu vaccine 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 should receive the COVID-19 vaccine based on individual-based decision-making with a healthcare provider.

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

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

For more information about how to stay healthy during respiratory illness season and all year round, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/epidemiology/respiratory-diseases-in-virginia/ or visit rhhd.gov. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook.

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Central Shenandoah Health District Encourages All Residents to Get Vaccinated for the Flu

October 23, 2025
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Central Shenandoah Health District Encourages All Residents to
Get Vaccinated for the Flu

STAUNTON, Va. – With the 2025-26 influenza (flu), season officially underway, the Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) encourages everyone six months and older who lives, works or plays in the Shenandoah Valley to receive their annual influenza vaccine.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a severe 2024-25 flu season with record high hospitalization rate in the U.S and the highest number of pediatric deaths during a regular, non-pandemic season. Last season, Virginia reported six influenza-associated pediatric deaths and 366 influenza outbreaks. CSHD reported over 2,000 cases of flu last flu season.

“The flu is not a mild illness,” says Dr. Allison Baroco, Acting Health Director for CSHD. “Even though we experience flu season every year, it’s important to make sure you are protected each annual flu season by getting vaccinated. Flu shots help maintain the health of our whole community.”

Flu season, the period of highest influenza activity, normally begins in early October and ends in late May. While seasonal influenza outbreaks can happen as early as October, during most seasons, activity often peaks in January or February.

A flu vaccine is needed every season for two reasons. First, the body’s immune response from vaccination declines over time, so an annual vaccine is needed for optimal protection. Second, because flu viruses are constantly changing, the formulation of the flu vaccine is reviewed each year and updated to keep up with changing flu viruses.

You should get the influenza vaccine as soon as it becomes available. However, as long as flu viruses are circulating, it’s not too late to get your flu vaccine.

Influenza is a serious disease caused by the influenza virus that affects the respiratory tract. The flu is highly contagious and generally spreads from person-to-person when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can be transmitted even before flu-like symptoms appear. A person usually becomes sick one to three days following exposure to the virus. Typical flu symptoms include fever, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches and extreme fatigue.

To minimize your risk of contracting or transmitting the flu, follow these simple steps:

  • Get vaccinated.
  • Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, for at least 20 seconds.
  • Cover your cough, either by using a disposable tissue or coughing into your sleeve, not your hand.
  • Stay at home when you are sick.

It is safe to get both the flu and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time. For more information, call the Staunton-Augusta Health Department at (540) 332-7830 or visit the VDH flu page.

Free Adult Vaccines Now Available for Wythe and Bland County Residents

October 16, 2025
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, brianne.kilbourne@vdh.virginia.gov

Free Adult Vaccines Now Available for Wythe and Bland County Residents

WYTHEVILLE, Va. – Thanks to the generous support of the Wythe Bland Foundation, adults living in Wythe and Bland Counties can now receive flu, high-dose flu, COVID-19, and other essential vaccines with no out-of-pocket cost at the Wythe and Bland County Health Departments. This initiative removes financial barriers to preventive care. Insurance will be billed when available, but no adult will be turned away, ensuring access to vital protection for all eligible community members.

“Preventive care is one of the most powerful tools we have to protect community health,” said Dr. Meagan Helmick, Health Director. “We’re incredibly grateful to the Wythe Bland Foundation for their partnership in making these vaccines accessible to every adult in Wythe and Bland Counties. Their support helps us turn public health priorities into real, meaningful impact for our communities.”

What You Need to Know:

Who’s Eligible?

  • All adults living in Wythe and Bland Counties

What’s Offered?

  • Flu, high-dose flu, COVID-19, and other routine vaccines

Where?

  • Bland County Health Department – 209 Jackson Street, Bland, VA 24315
  • Wythe County Health Department – 290 S. 6th Street, Suite 300, Wytheville, VA 24382

How to Schedule?

  • Call 276-228-5507 or 276-688-3642
  • Spanish Language Line: 276-238-6105

Our team is here to make getting vaccinated easy. We’ll answer your questions and help you stay protected, for yourself and those around you.  Call today!