Tag: HIV

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Encourages HIV Testing

June 24, 2026
Media Contact: Dr Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Encourages HIV Testing
June 27 is National HIV Testing Day

WARRENTON, Va. — Knowledge is a powerful tool in your health management. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District reminds you that knowing your HIV status helps you make informed choices about your health. Testing is a simple (and the only) way to find out your status.

“National HIV Testing Day is an important reminder that knowing your HIV status is a critical step in protecting your health and the health of our communities,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “HIV testing is quick, confidential, and widely available, and early diagnosis allows individuals to access effective treatment that can help them live long, healthy lives. We encourage everyone, especially those who may be at increased risk, to make HIV testing a routine part of their healthcare. Together, we can reduce stigma, increase awareness, and move closer to ending the HIV epidemic in our region and across Virginia.”

Everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 should get tested for HIV at least once. People who might be at higher risk should get tested more often. Regular testing helps you stay up to date and make choices that support your wellbeing.

Free or low-cost HIV testing is available at the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District.

Knowing your HIV status gives you power. It helps you make important choices about your health and your future. If you test HIV-negative, you can take steps to stay negative. These steps can include using condoms, making a personal prevention plan, and, for some people, taking PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis).

If you test HIV-positive, treatment can help you live a long and healthy life. Taking your medicine as prescribed keeps you well and protects others.

You can learn more about HIV testing and find a location that works for you on the VDH HIV/STD/Viral Hepatitis Testing page.

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Cumberland Plateau & LENOWISCO Health Districts Encourage HIV Testing

June 23, 2026
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, Daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau & LENOWISCO Health Districts Encourage HIV Testing
June 27 is National HIV Testing Day

LEBANON, VA — Knowledge is a powerful tool in your health management. The Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts remind you that knowing your HIV status helps you make informed choices about your health. Testing is a simple (and the only) way to find out your status.

“National HIV Testing Day is a reminder that caring for our community starts with caring for ourselves and one another,” said Reisa Sloce, Director Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Getting tested for HIV is a simple act that can make a meaningful difference for you, your loved ones, and our community as a whole. Knowing your status helps connect people to the care, treatment, and prevention services they need to stay healthy. By encouraging open conversations about HIV and making testing a routine part of health care, we can reduce stigma, support one another, and build a healthier future for everyone.”

Everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 should get tested for HIV at least once. People who might be at higher risk should get tested more often. Regular testing helps you stay up to date and make choices that support your wellbeing.

There are two opportunities to receive free rapid HIV testing for National HIV Testing Day. The test is very quick, and you will receive your results in only 1 minute! Testing is also available by appointment at your local health department.

  • Saturday, June 27
    10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
    Walgreens, 1005 E. Main St., Lebanon, VA
  • Sunday, June 28
    12 – 4 p.m.

Pride in the Park- Breaks Interstate Park Shelter #2, 627 Commission Circle, Breaks, VA

Knowing your HIV status gives you power. It helps you make important choices about your health and your future. If you test HIV-negative, you can take steps to stay negative. These steps can include using condoms, making a personal prevention plan, and, for some people, taking PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis).

If you test HIV-positive, treatment can help you live a long and healthy life. Taking your medicine as prescribed keeps you well and protects others.

You can learn more about HIV testing and find a location that works for you on the VDH HIV/STD/Viral Hepatitis Testing page.   You can make an appointment for HIV testing or get more information by contacting your local health department: Buchanan – 276-935-4591; Dickenson – 276-926-4979; Lee – 276-346-2011; Russell – 276-889-7621; Scott – 276-386-1312; Tazewell – 276-988-5585; Wise/Norton – 276-328-8000.

Norfolk Health Department and City Jail Partner to Expand STI Testing and Treatment

NORFOLK, Va. — The City of Norfolk has some of the highest rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Virginia. To address this, the Norfolk Department of Public Health (NDPH) and the Norfolk City Jail (NCJ) have teamed up to provide health screenings and treatment for people in jail. This new program focuses on preventing the spread of HIV, syphilis, and Hepatitis C.

The program started in February 2026 to make it easier for inmates to get confidential testing.

“This partnership gives us the opportunity to break down barriers to care and reach some of our residents who are often hard to reach,” said Dr. Susan Girois, Health Director of the Norfolk Department of Public Health. “Improving health in correctional facilities builds a safer, healthier community for everyone.”

How the Program Works

Twice a month, public health specialists go to the jail gymnasium to offer voluntary testing. They use “rapid tests” that give quick results for syphilis and HIV. In the first month alone, the team tested 32 people and found one case of syphilis, which they were able to treat immediately.

The need for this service is high. Even though the jail sees hundreds of people every month, about 100 people signed up for testing in just the first few weeks.

“We have seen a surprisingly high interest among inmates requesting testing, which is incredibly encouraging in that people are interested in their sexual and reproductive health wellness,” said Virginia Rader, Director of Grants and LIDS for the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office. “Ensuring these individuals are screened and treated properly is a top priority for Norfolk City Jail.”

“Bringing testing directly into the jail is a meaningful step forward in meeting our patients where they are,” said Erin Topalian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Mental Health Manager at the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office. “This collaboration supports our inmates and reflects the Sheriff’s vision to ‘make a difference in the lives of others as far as we can reach.’ We look forward to strengthening this partnership and are optimistic about what we can accomplish together.”

Growing for the Future

The program is already expanding to offer more help:

  • Hepatitis C Testing: Starting in March 2026, the team can now test for Hepatitis C on-site.
  • Affordable Medicine: The health department is working to get lower-cost medications for those who test positive.
  • Continuing Care: A new system is being built to make sure that if someone tests positive, they can continue their treatment even after they are released from jail.

By using the time someone is in jail to provide medical help, Norfolk is working to close the gap in healthcare and keep everyone in the city healthy.

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Love Safely This Valentine’s Day – Get Free Condoms from the Crater Health District

February 13, 2026
Media Contact: Tara Rose, Tara.Rose@vdh.virginia.gov

Love Safely This Valentine’s Day
Get Free Condoms from the Crater Health District

 

PETERSBURG, Va.– It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day is also National Condom Day! One of the simplest ways to show you care is to protect the health of those you love. The Crater Health District (CHD) provides free condoms to support safer and healthier sexual relationships.

Valentine’s Day is often associated with flowers, chocolates, and dinner dates. CHD reminds you that protection should also be part of the plan.

“National Condom Week is an important reminder that protecting our community starts with simple, informed choices, and condoms remain one of the most effective tools we have to help us stay healthy, support our partners, and prevent infections,” said Crater District Health Director, Dr. Alton Hart, Jr.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) remain a serious public health concern in Virginia.  More than 54,000 STIs were reported in Virginia in 2024.  The increase in syphilis diagnoses among women is of particular concern.  The rate of newly diagnosed syphilis cases among women increased 144% from 2020 to 2024.

Cases of congenital syphilis, when a pregnant person passes syphilis to a baby during pregnancy or childbirth, increased for the fifth straight year in Virginia. In 2024, 35 cases of congenital syphilis were reported among newly born infants, the highest case count observed in more than 30 years in Virginia.

Because many STIs, including syphilis, often show no symptoms, you can spread them without knowing it. Using condoms consistently and correctly is an effective way to reduce the risk of STIs and unintended pregnancy.

The Virginia Department of Health distributes condoms statewide through its Condom Distribution Program, which is designed to reduce HIV and other STIs through free access to protection.

Free condoms are available at the Crater Health District and through community partner organizations.

You can contact call 804-863-1652 or visit Crater Health District.to locate free condoms nearby.

Organizations interested in becoming distribution sites should contact the HIV-STD Hotline Supervisor at HIV-stdhotline@vdh.virginia.gov. Participating organizations may order up to 100,000 condoms per year.

CHD offers a Men’s Sexual Health Clinic in Petersburg on the 2nd & 4th Mondays from 5 p.m.-7 p.m.  For more information about or Services & Programs – Crater Health District.

Make this Valentine’s Day a night to remember, not a diagnosis you want to forget.

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Love Safely This Valentine’s Day

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

Love Safely This Valentine’s Day
Get Free Condoms from the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District

WARRENTON, Va. – It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day is also National Condom Day! One of the simplest ways to show you care is to protect the health of those you love. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District provides free condoms to support safer and healthier sexual relationships.

Valentine’s Day is often associated with flowers, chocolates, and dinner dates. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District reminds you that protection should also be part of the plan.

“Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate connection and care,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “Loving safely means protecting yourself and your partner, and free condoms are one simple way to support healthy relationships and prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections.”

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) remain a serious public health concern in Virginia.  More than 54,000 STIs were reported in Virginia in 2024.  The increase in syphilis diagnoses among women is of particular concern. The rate of newly diagnosed syphilis cases among women increased 144% from 2020 to 2024.

Cases of congenital syphilis, when a pregnant person passes syphilis to a baby during pregnancy or childbirth, increased for the fifth straight year in Virginia. In 2024, 35 cases of congenital syphilis were reported among newly born infants, the highest case count observed in more than 30 years in Virginia.

Because many STIs, including syphilis, often show no symptoms, you can spread them without knowing it. Using condoms consistently and correctly is an effective way to reduce the risk of STIs and unintended pregnancy.

The Virginia Department of Health distributes condoms statewide through its Condom Distribution Program, which is designed to reduce HIV and other STIs through free access to protection.

Free condoms are available at the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District and through community partner organizations. You can contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at www.rrhd.org to locate free condoms nearby.

Organizations interested in becoming distribution sites should contact the HIV-STD Hotline Supervisor at HIV-stdhotline@vdh.virginia.gov. Participating organizations may order up to 100,000 condoms per year.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District can also help you decide if medicine to prevent HIV (PrEP) or STIs (DoxyPEP) is right for you.

Make this Valentine’s Day a night to remember, not a diagnosis you want to forget.

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Central Shenandoah Health District Observes World AIDS Day

December 1, 2025
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Central Shenandoah Health District Observes World AIDS Day
Wear a Red Ribbon to Show Your Support

STAUNTON, Va. — The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) recognizes December 1 as World AIDS Day and encourages communities to stand together, united with a red ribbon. Remember those who have been lost, unite in the fight against HIV and AIDS, and raise awareness to prevent new cases of HIV.

“About 13% of those living with HIV are unaware of their positive status,” says Dr. Allison Baroco, Acting Health Director for CSHD. “Getting tested is the only way to know your status for sure. We now have many medications that can treat HIV infection and can help people live long and healthy lives, so getting tested early before you may have symptoms is important.”

CSHD provides STI testing at the Staunton-Augusta, Harrisonburg-Rockingham, and Waynesboro-Augusta health departments. You can make an appointment for STI testing by calling (540) 332-7830.

More than 28,000 people are living with HIV in Virginia, including 424 people within CSHD. More than 75% of people with HIV in Virginia are men, and more than half are 50 years or older. While Black, non-Hispanic people make up 19% of the population in the Commonwealth, 56% of people with HIV identify as Black, non-Hispanic in Virginia.

Support from family and friends can be helpful. If you know of anyone who has been diagnosed with HIV, help is available. Financial assistance with medication costs or copays is available through local, state, or federal programs. Visit the Virginia Department of Health to learn about prevention, treatment, financial assistance, STI data, and other related resources.

To learn more about HIV:

Let’s work to fight against HIV and AIDS. The Central Shenandoah Health District encourages you to wear a red ribbon on December 1. To make an STI testing appointment, call CSDH at (540) 332-7830.

RHHD Encourages Community Members to Seek Preventative Care, Testing for HIV

December 1, 2025

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

RHHD Encourages Community Members to Seek Preventative Care, Testing for HIV
December 1 is World AIDS Day

RICHMOND, Va. — Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) commemorate World AIDS Day Dec. 1 by encouraging community members to seek preventative care, testing, and/or treatment for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Virginia Department of Health data from 2023 shows that Richmond City and Henrico County had the second and third highest rates of new HIV diagnoses per 100,000 people (respectively, by health district) in Virginia.

“The only way to know your HIV status is to get tested,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Disease Intervention Specialist Bennett Shumaker. “Knowing your status helps keep you and your partner(s) healthy. Our disease intervention specialists understand that receiving the news of a new HIV diagnosis is challenging. We are here to offer support, grace, and hope.”

RHHD Testing Options

RHHD offers clinic-based sexually transmitted infection (STI) and HIV testing appointments at its Cary Street, Henrico East, and Henrico West clinics. Visit rhhd.gov/sti for information and to view testing appointment options. Use rhhd.gov/VA-HIV-testing to search for Virginia-based HIV testing options near you.

RHHD also offers pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). PrEP is a daily medication that is highly effective at helping prevent HIV. To learn more about PrEP, call 804-482-5493.

People living with HIV needing support from the Virginia Medication Assistance Program (VAMAP) can call 855-362-0658.

Community Partner Testing Options

The following RHHD community partners offer free STI and HIV testing services:

Use the CDC testing site locator to find a testing site near you.

HIV Data

In Richmond, proximity to resources like clinics and pharmacies, as well as insurance status, are still shaped by histories of redlining and segregation. In the U.S., people who identify as Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino are disproportionately affected by HIV compared to their population size, showing that effective HIV prevention and treatment are not adequately reaching these communities. People who identify as multiracial are also disproportionately impacted.

HIV disproportionally affects people who identify as Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, and multiracial. These groups only make up 22% of the U.S. population. Yet, according to the CDC, they account for 74% of the 31,800 individuals who acquired HIV in the U.S. in 2022.

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook.

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The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Observes World AIDS Day

December 1, 2025
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Observes World AIDS Day
Wear a Red Ribbon to Show Your Support

WARRENTON, Va. — The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Health Department recognizes December 1 as World AIDS Day and encourages communities to stand together, united with a red ribbon. Remember those who have been lost, unite in the fight against HIV and AIDS, and raise awareness to prevent new cases of HIV.

“I encourage everyone in our district to stand together — get tested, stay informed, and support those living with HIV. On this World AIDS Day we renew our commitment to prevention, care and compassion,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D.

More than 28,000 people are living with HIV in Virginia. More than 75% of people with HIV in Virginia are men, and more than half are 50 years or older. While Black, non-Hispanic people make up 19% of the population in the Commonwealth, 56% of people with HIV identify as Black, non-Hispanic in Virginia.

Support from family and friends can be helpful. If you know of anyone who has been diagnosed with HIV, help is available. Financial assistance with medication costs or copays is available through local, state, or federal programs. Visit the Virginia Department of Health to learn about prevention, treatment, financial assistance, STI data, and other related resources.

To learn more about HIV:

Let’s work to fight against HIV and AIDS. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Health Department encourages you to wear a red ribbon on December 1. If you have questions, contact The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at www.rrhd.org.

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Central Shenandoah Health District Provides Services to Reduce Overdose Deaths

August 29, 2025
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Central Shenandoah Health District Provides Services to Reduce Overdose Deaths
International Overdose Awareness Day is August 31

STAUNTON, Va. – August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day, a day to remember and grieve loved ones who lost their lives to drug overdoses. The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) is a key community partner in the fight to prevent drug overdoses. CSHD District provides support, encourages recovery, and spreads 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. 97 of those deaths occurred within the Central Shenandoah Health District.

“Even one overdose is too many,” says Dr. Allison Baroco, Acting Health Director of CSHD. “Overdose is preventable, and the health department is glad to offer free Naloxone to its residents.”

Central Shenandoah Health District overdose prevention services include:

  • Naloxone kits,
  • Overdose reversal education,
  • Fentanyl 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 at Central Shenandoah Health District’s REVIVE! Training. Call CSHD at (540) 332-7830 to schedule a training session today.

For more information on drug overdose prevention resources, contact Central Shenandoah Health District. You can also email questions to overdose@vdh.virginia.gov.

Mount Rogers Health District Launches Mobile Units to Expand Health Services

July 1, 2025
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, Mount Rogers Health District 276-781-7450

Mount Rogers Health District Launches Mobile Units to Expand Health Services

MARION, Va. — Local officials, health professionals, and community partners recently gathered at Marion Senior High School to celebrate the official ribbon cutting of two new mobile health units that will bring essential services directly to communities across all eight localities of the Mount Rogers Health District.

The two mobile units were funded through a multi-year grant from the Opioid Abatement Authority (OAA) and represent a collaboration between all eight localities in the district as well as the Mount Rogers and Highlands Community Services Boards. The partnership to obtain the motorized vehicles mark a major step in addressing the region’s ongoing challenges related to substance use, behavioral health, and access to care.

“These units enable us to meet people where they are, especially in areas where transportation, stigma, or scheduling conflicts have made it difficult for individuals to access traditional clinic services,” said Dr. Meagan Helmick, Health Director for the Mount Rogers Health District.

Each mobile unit will be jointly staffed by the Mount Rogers Health District and Community Services Board personnel and will provide a wide range of services, including:

  • HIV, hepatitis A, B, and C, and STI testing
  • Harm reduction services (naloxone distribution and fentanyl/xylazine test strips)
  • Immunizations
  • Hepatitis C treatment
  • Mental health and substance use counseling
  • Psychiatric medication management
  • Referrals and wraparound case management

The region served by the Mount Rogers Health District has long faced elevated rates of substance use disorder, hepatitis C, poverty, and overdose burden compared to the rest of the state. In 2021 alone, the eight localities represented had a combined economic burden from opioids of nearly $96 million. The mobile units reflect a data-driven, community-informed response that emphasizes prevention, education, and connection to care.

Since the recent launch, health officials continue to refine operations as they learn during each stop. The program aims to be both responsive and sustainable, with services billed through existing clinical systems and continued pursuit of additional grant opportunities.

“This is just the beginning,” said Dr. Helmick. “We are deeply hopeful about what this can mean for individuals and families across our region.”

To learn more about the mobile units, including the staff and schedule for each, visit www.MRHD.org and click on “Integrative Health Servies-Mobile Unit.”