Tag: immunizations

Beat the Back-To-School Rush: Get Your Child Immunized over Spring Break!

March 27, 2026 

Media Contact: Kristy Fowler, Kristy.fowler@vdh.virginia.gov 

 

Beat the Back-To-School Rush: Get Your Child Immunized over Spring Break!
Chesterfield Health District Holding Vaccination Clinics 

CHESTERFIELD, 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.  

Chesterfield Health District will offer state-required immunizations during special Spring Break vaccination clinics: 

  • Chesterfield: March 31, April 1 and April 2 by appointment only during regular clinic hours. Call 804-748-1750. 
  • Powhatan: March 30 and 31 by appointment only during regular clinic hours. Call 804-598-5680. 

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. 

The Commonwealth of Virginia requires immunizations for entry into kindergarten, seventh grade, and 12th grade. Students who do not get their immunizations will not be admitted to school. Keeping children up to date on vaccinations can reduce severe illnesses and unnecessary absences from school and work, saving your family time and money.  

The evidence shows vaccines are your child’s best defense against infectious disease, like Measles. The highly contagious disease that was declared eliminated in the year 2000 is experiencing a surge in the U.S. with more than 1,280 cases reported so far this year. This includes 14 cases in Virginia, nearly three times as many cases in all of 2025. 

“Vaccines teach your body how to create an immune response,” said LaWanda Dunn, nurse manager at the Chesterfield Health District. “When exposed to the disease, it has the defenses necessary to fight the illness.” 

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.   

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. You can Locate A VVFC Provider by simply entering your zip code on the VDH website. 

VDH encourages parents to make an appointment as soon as possible to save the stress of trying to find one last minute. As the school year draws near, appointments will no longer be available. For more information, please contact Chesterfield Health District at ChesterfieldVa.health. 

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It’s not too late: Chesterfield Health District Encourages Everyone to Stay Up to Date on Respiratory Immunizations

December 2, 2025
Media Contact: Kristy Fowler, kristy.fowler@vdh.virginia.gov

It’s not too late: Chesterfield Health District Encourages Everyone to Stay Up to Date on Respiratory Immunizations
It’s National Influenza Vaccination Week

CHESTERFIELD, Va.– Have you gotten your flu shot? They last for six months, so most people choose to get them in October to last through flu season. Typically, flu is seen in winter months but can extend into spring. During National Influenza Vaccination Week, Chesterfield Health District is reminding 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 holidays it’s important that everyone is current on all respiratory immunizations, like flu, RSV and COVID-19. It’s not too late! Talk to a healthcare provider about which immunizations are right for you.

“We see flu outbreaks in schools, daycares, and nursing homes each year,” said Stephanie Duong, Epidemiologist at the Chesterfield Health District. “Simple things like staying home when you’re sick, getting vaccinated, washing your hands and covering your cough helps tremendously.”

Flu vaccines are recommended for all Virginians six months of age and older. The Respiratory Immunization Dashboard shows how many people living in Chesterfield, Colonial Heights and Powhatan have received the 2025-2026 Flu vaccine:

Chesterfield 70,941 or 15%
Colonial Heights 2,686 or 15%
Powhatan 5,009 or 15%

The Chesterfield Health District 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 Chesterfield Health District, please call 804-748-1691.

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Mecklenburg County Health Department Opens Chase City Facility for Clinical Services

November 17, 2025

Media Contact: Brian C. Little, Sr., Central Virginia PIO, brian.little@vdh.virginia.gov

Mecklenburg County Health Department Opens Chase City Facility for Clinical Services

CHASE CITY, Va. – Southside Health District is proud to announce the official opening of Mecklenburg County Health Department’s new clinical services facility located at 200 East 5th St. in Chase City. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on November 14, marking the department’s commitment to providing access to essential public health services for the Mecklenburg community.

Ribbon cutting of the Chase City Health Clinic. Pictured: Southside Health District staff, Southside Health District Director Scott J. Spillmann, MD, MPH, Chase City Mayor Alden Fahringer, Delegate Otto Wachsmann (83rd District), Senator Tammy Brankley Mulchi (9th District), and Mecklenburg County Administrator Alex Gottschalk.
Ribbon cutting of the Chase City Health Clinic.
Pictured: Southside Health District staff, Southside Health District Director Scott J. Spillmann, MD, MPH, Chase City Mayor Alden Fahringer, Delegate Otto Wachsmann (83rd District), Senator Tammy Brankley Mulchi (9th District), and Mecklenburg County Administrator Alex Gottschalk.

“We were pleased to welcome government officials and the community to our new facility as staff showcased the range of services we provide,” said Southside Health District Director Scott J. Spillmann, MD, MPH. “This open house offered a chance for people to meet our dedicated team and learn more about how we can help them lead healthier lives.”

Although the clinic has been serving residents since April, the ribbon cutting provided the opportunity to formally celebrate the new facility. The Chase City clinic makes it easier to meet the health needs of families and individuals across the county.

Services offered at the Chase City clinic include:

  • Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program: Nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and supplemental food program for eligible families.
  • Immunizations: Routine childhood vaccinations, boosters for adults, and protection against preventable diseases like the flu.
  • Family Planning: Confidential counseling, birth control options, pregnancy testing, and physical exams.
  • STI Clinics: Clinical exams, lab work, and counseling for sexually transmitted infections, to include HIV.
  • Vital Records: Virginia birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates.

“This new clinic strengthens our ability to provide our community with the resources they need to live healthier lives. We are excited to provide high‑quality services in a space that meets the needs of our residents” said Tina Slabach, Nurse Manager Senior, Mecklenburg County Health Department.

For additional information on these clinic services, or to schedule an appointment please contact the Mecklenburg County Health Department at 434-533-8213.

Mecklenburg County Health Department’s environmental health, epidemiology, and population health programs remain at the Boydton office located at 478 Washington St., Boydton, Va.

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Beat the Back-To-School Rush: Get Your Child Immunized ASAP!

August 18, 2025
Media Contact: Tes La Dieu, Public Information Officer, (757) 594-7411

Beat the Back-To-School Rush: Get Your Child Immunized ASAP!
Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts Holding Vaccination Clinics

NEWPORT NEWS, 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. The Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts (HPHD) is making it easy to get these required immunizations at several clinics during the month of August.

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.

“Vaccinations our crucial to protect students, school staff, and the broader community,” says Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts’ Health Director, Dr. Natasha Dwamena. “When your child is up-to-date on their vaccinations, schools can minimize the spread of infectious diseases, safeguard vulnerable individuals, and maintain a healthy learning environment.”

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.

The Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts will offer school-required immunizations free of charge during a special Back-To-School walk-in vaccination clinics during the following dates, times, and locations:

  • Peninsula Health District:
    • Peninsula Health Center
    • 836-A J Clyde Morris Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601
    • August 15, 19, 20, 25, 26, and 27 FIRST 75 WALK-IN CLIENTS ONLY EACH DAY. 8am-4pm.
    • August 22 – FIRST 85 WALK-IN CLIENTS ONLY. 8am-4:30pm.
  • Hampton Health District:
    • Hampton Health Center
    • 3130 Victoria Blvd., Hampton, VA 23661
    • August 14, 18, 21, 25, 26, and 27 FIRST 75 WALK-IN CLIENTS ONLY EACH DAY. 8am-3:30pm.
    • August 22 – FIRST 85 WALK-IN CLIENTS ONLY. 8am-4pm.

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. You can Locate A VVFC Provider by simply entering your zip code on the VDH website.

VDH encourages parents to come in as soon as possible to save the stress of trying to get your child vaccinated last minute. For more information, please contact the Hampton Health District at (757) 728-2162 or the Peninsula Health District at (757) 594-7410.

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Student Health 101: Your College Syllabus for a Healthy School Year

August 11, 2025 

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

Student Health 101: Your College Syllabus for a Healthy School Year 

 RICHMOND, Va.– For some young adults, going off to college is an exciting time. Learning to take care of one’s health is as important as required coursework. Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are offering tips for physical, sexual and mental health this school year. 

“College is a time of growth and new experiences, including learning how to care for your health,” said RHHD Population Health Manager Tamara Jones-Groves.  “We want to equip these students with the tools they need to stay safe, make informed decisions and build healthy habits that last beyond the school year.” 

Here are some tips for staying healthy at college: 

Support Immune Function 

Two of the most important things you can do to make sure your immune system is functioning properly are eating a healthy diet and getting enough sleep. If your immune system is not working as well as it should, this might put you at risk of contracting diseases that are common at colleges, including: 

  • Gastrointestinal infections 
  • Respiratory illnesses 
  • Sinus infections 
  • Sexually transmitted infections 
  • Meningitis 

Eat a Healthy Diet 

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020–2025 recommend the following tips for healthy eating: 

  • Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products. 
  • Include a variety of protein foods. Healthful options include seafood, lean meats and poultry, eggs, legumes (beans and peas), soy products, nuts and seeds. 

Energy drinks might seem like a good way to fuel long study sessions. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends understanding the harmful effects of energy drinks, which often include large amounts of caffeine. Some of the harmful effects of energy drinks include: 

  • Dehydration (not enough water in your body) 
  • Heart complications (such as irregular heartbeat and heart failure) 
  • Anxiety (feeling nervous and jittery) 
  • Insomnia (inability to sleep) 

 Sleep Well 

Good sleep is essential for health and wellbeing and can help college students stay focused, improve concentration and improve academic performance. CDC recommends taking the following steps to improve sleep: 

  • Go to bed and get up at the same time every day. 
  • Keep your bedroom quiet, relaxing and at a cool temperature. 
  • Turn off electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime. 
  • Avoid large meals and alcohol before bedtime. 
  • Avoid caffeine in the afternoon or evening. 
  • Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy diet. 

Get Immunized  

College students should be up to date on all school-required immunizations. In addition, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) recommends the following vaccines:   

  • Meningococcal ACWY  
  • Meningococcal B 
  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV) 
  • Hepatitis A 
  • Influenza  
  • COVID-19  

Vaccines are available through your healthcare provider, pharmacies and at RHHD clinic locations. 

 Practice Healthy Hygiene Habits 

  • Wash your hands frequently. 
  • Cover coughs and sneezes. 
  • Don’t share drinks. 
  • Stay home when you’re sick. 

Prioritize Sexual Health  

  • Use condoms consistently and correctly every time.
     
  • If you are sexually active: 
  • Get tested for STIs, including HIV, at least once a year. 
  • Testing is confidential and provided through most university/college student health services. RHHD offers testing on a sliding scale. Some community partners may offer free testing. 
  • Learn about free or low-cost medications that can prevent you from becoming infected with HIV (PrEP) or STIs (DoxyPEP) if you are exposed. 

Prioritize Mental Health 

  • Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques. 
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help from people you trust. 

Think Before You Drink 

Alcohol consumption affects your body and mind. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) estimates that alcohol use is a factor in more than 1,500 deaths and nearly 700,000 assaults among emerging adults of college age (18 to 24). According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 15.1% of adults ages 18 to 25 met the criteria for past-year alcohol use disorder (AUD). Within this age group, 14.5% of full-time college students ages 18 to 25 and 15.3% of other persons of the same age met the criteria for AUD. If you choose to drink, do so legally and responsibly and understand the risks.  

For more health and safety information, follow RHHD on Instagram at @richmondcity_hd and on Facebook, visit rhhd.gov and sign up for RHHD’s monthly newsletter at rhhd.gov/news. 

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Crater Health District Encourages Back-to-School Vaccinations

August 5, 2025

Media Contacts: Tara Rose, Tara.Rose@vdh,virginia.gov  &
Karen Stalzer, Karen.Stalzer@vdh.virginia.gov

Crater Health District Encourages Back-to-School Vaccinations

PETERSBURG, Va.- The Crater Health District (CHD)-Virginia Department of Health encourages families to make sure children are up to date on recommended vaccines for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. “Back-to-school” season is just around the corner, and CHD will offer all required vaccines for school entry at all health department immunization clinics each week.

Virginia schools require immunizations for entry into kindergarten, 7th grade, and 12th grade. Keeping children up to date on vaccinations can reduce severe illnesses and unnecessary absences from school. Vaccines are a safe and effective way to protect children and others in our community against vaccine-preventable diseases.

“We invite everyone from CHD to ensure students have the required immunizations so they can start school on time and have a healthy year,” said Crater District Health Director, Alton Hart, Jr., MD, MPH. “Vaccines have been and remain our strongest tool in the fight to eradicate many childhood diseases. Our CHD staff looks forward to providing important health services needed for school entry. “

Please bring a copy of your child’s vaccination record. You can request a copy of the record here if you do not have one. 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 program which offers free vaccines to eligible children..

For more information on school immunizations in Virginia, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/immunization/requirements/. For updated information from CHD including current clinic schedules, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/crater/

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

LENOWISCO Health District Wants to Make Sure
Your Child is Ready for School
Lee, Wise, Scott Health Departments Holding Vaccination Clinics

WISE, 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. Lee, Scott, and Wise County/Norton City health departments are making it easy to get these required immunizations at a clinic during the month of August. 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 orientation events next week at Union Middle School, LF Addington Middle School and Coeburn Middle School,” said Reisa Sloce, Director of the LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts.

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.

Lee, Scott and Wise County/Norton City 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: Lee County: 276-346- 2011, Scott County: 276-386-1312, or Wise County/Norton City: 276-328-8000.

Chesterfield Health Department Hosting School Immunization Clinics

July 15, 2025 

Media Contact: Kristy Fowler
Kristy.Fowler@vdh.virginia.gov 

 Chesterfield Health Department Hosting School Immunization Clinics
Make sure your student is ready to go back to school in the fall. 

 CHESTERFIELD, Va.– The Chesterfield Health District is blocking off their clinic schedules for parents/ guardians to bring their children in for state-required immunizations. They will host two clinics for Chesterfield, Colonial Heights and Powhatan students, rising 7th and 12th graders, ages 11 and older. These are at 9501 Lucy Corr Circle in Chesterfield, Thursday, July 17, and Friday, July 25, from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.  

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 safe and effective and are your child’s best defense against infectious disease. 

Families should make sure their child’s immunizations are up to date now to avoid delays when school starts in August.   

“Primary care appointments in central Virginia are difficult to get,” Nurse Manager LaWanda Dunn said. “We’re offering these immunizations to students now to make sure everyone can start school on time.”   

What immunizations are provided? 

  1. 7th grade: 
  1. Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) 
  1. Meningococcal conjugate (MenACWY) 
  1. Human papillomavirus (HPV) 
  • 12th grade: 
  1. Meningococcal conjugate (MenACWY) 

 

Additional Information 

  • Bring your child’s immunization record and insurance card, if applicable. 
  • There is no expense to receive immunization; if applicable, insurance is billed for administration. 
  • All children under 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 years or older. 
  • When your child has received these immunizations, provide the records to your school nurse.  
  • Registration is required: 

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Norfolk Health Department to Host Back-to-School Community Day

July 10, 2025  
Media Contact: Kathy Lamm, Kathy.Lamm@vdh.virginia.gov
Phone: (757) 236-0529

Norfolk Health Department to Host Back-to-School Community Day
Free Physicals, Immunizations, Gaming Bus and Family Resources

NORFOLK, Va. – The Norfolk Department of Health is excited to invite local families to its upcoming Back to School Community Day where families can get their game on while getting all they need to be healthy for the upcoming school year.

The event will take place on Thursday, July 24, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at 830 Southampton Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23510.  

This event supports families as they prepare for the school year with required school immunizations, sports and school entrance physicals, and a wide variety of vendors and activities.

Families can expect:

  • FREE school immunizations to those who qualify (bring valid ID, shot records and insurance info, if available)
  • FREE sports and school entrance physicals provided by Sentara healthcare professionals
  • A health fair-style event with community resources and vendors
  • A gaming bus courtesy of the Norfolk Police Department
  • Fun activities and giveaways

Services are geared toward students entering Pre-K, Kindergarten, 7th grade, and 12th grade.

Partner organizations include Sentara Health, Norfolk Public Schools, Old Dominion University, YMCA of South Hampton Roads, Norfolk Police Department, Norfolk Family Justice Center, the Virginia Zoo, Chartway Credit Union, Nauticus, REACH Inc., YWCA South Hampton Roads, Norfolk Community Emergency Response Team, and others committed to student wellness.

This event is one of many efforts by the Norfolk Health Department to ensure that every family feels welcomed and supported in getting ready for the school year.

To learn more or get involved, contact: Phelecia Riddick-Debnam, VDH Clinical Nurse Supervisor phelecia.riddick-debnam@vdh.virginia.gov or call 757-355-5644.

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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.”