Tag: mount rogers health district

Mount Rogers Health District Releases 2025 Annual Report

April 16, 2026
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, Brianne.Kilbourne@vdh.virginia.gov

Mount Rogers Health District Releases 2025 Annual Report

MARION, Va. – The Mount Rogers Health District has released its 2025 Annual Report, providing residents with a clear view of local health department services, outcomes, and priorities across the cities of Bristol and Galax, and the counties of Bland, Carroll, Grayson, Smyth, Washington, and Wythe. The report details the health district’s response to Hurricane Helene, expanded access to care through mobile services, and opioid overdose prevention, and core programs that help families stay safe and healthy.

“I’m excited to share the hard work our Mount Rogers Health District staff have poured into serving our communities over the past year. This Annual Report is a highlight reel of their dedication and the hard work they do every day across the district,” said Dr. Meagan Helmick, health director for the Mount Rogers Health District.

Key highlights residents should know:

  • More than 1,000 BabyCare visits completed by public health nurses, supporting maternal and infant health across the district.
  • Over 1,800 food establishment inspections conducted by Environmental Health, ensuring safe food handling practices.
  • An average of over 3,300 monthly participants in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, strengthening nutrition and health for families.
  • More than 800 Naloxone kits and more than 250 drug test kits were distributed by the Population Health team to prevent and reduce overdose deaths.

Want to know more? Read or download the full 2025 Annual Report by visiting www.MRHD.org.

ATSDR Report: Bristol’s Mitigation Efforts Show Promising Results and Community Risk Remains Low

December 22, 2025
Media Contact: Linda Scarborough, PIO – Western Region Linda.Scarborough@vdh.virginia.gov

ATSDR Report: Bristol’s Mitigation Efforts Show Promising Results and Community Risk Remains Low

BRISTOL, Va. – The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has reviewed the release of a Health Consultation Report by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) evaluating ambient air concentrations near the Bristol Quarry Landfill in Bristol, Virginia from 2020 to 2022. The report was developed in response to community concerns about odors and air quality.

Since 2020, the City of Bristol, in coordination with the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has taken significant steps to address the issue. These steps include extensive air sampling, engineering improvements, and the installation of odor mitigation systems. These actions have led to a substantial reduction in emissions. In addition, the landfill is no longer accepting waste, with permanent closure planned.

ATSDR’s health consultation is a scientific evaluation of environmental data to determine whether exposure to chemicals in the air could pose health risks. The health consultation uses the highest levels of exposures measured during the sampling period during 2021 and 2022 to estimate potential risk. This approach reflects a worse-case scenario and is unlikely to represent actual conditions experienced by residents. It is important to note that this report cannot assess an individual health risk and does not predict whether any specific person will develop health problems.

“We recognize that members of the Bristol community are concerned and want to reassure residents that the overall health risk is low,” said Mount Rogers Health District Director Meagan Helmick, PhD, MPH, CHES®. “The city’s actions have made a meaningful difference, and we will continue to support efforts to protect public health.”

Key Findings from the Report

  • Benzene, a chemical found in many urban environments, was detected at levels that could pose a slight increase (less than 0.01%) in cancer risk if someone were exposed continuously, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for 25 years.
    • The estimated maximum concentration of benzene was 10.2 parts per billion (ppb), below typical urban levels (11 ppb) and three times lower than levels shown to cause health effects in laboratory studies.
    • ATSDR calculated a lifetime excess cancer risk of less than 1 in 10,000, which is considered elevated but still low.
    • This estimate reflects a worst-case exposure scenario and is unlikely to represent actual conditions experienced by residents.
  • Short-term exposures to sulfur dioxide (SO₂) may have caused temporary breathing discomfort, especially for individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions. These effects are typically short-lived and reversible.
  • Odorous compounds, such as methyl mercaptan and tentatively identified compounds (TICs), may have caused symptoms like headaches or nausea, but were not found at levels expected to cause long-term health effects.
  • Other chemicals detected in the air were not found at levels likely to cause health problems.

Benzene, the chemical identified in the report as contributing to a slight increase in cancer risk, is commonly found in urban air due to sources such as vehicle exhaust, gasoline, and industrial emissions. Cigarette smoke remains the leading source of benzene exposure for individuals. About half of the exposure to benzene in the United States results from smoking tobacco or from exposure to tobacco smoke. Smokers are exposed to approximately ten times more benzene than non-smokers, making tobacco use and exposure to cigarette smoke, a significantly greater contributor to personal exposure than the ambient air levels measured near the landfill.

VDH emphasizes that while some exposures may have occurred, the overall risk to the community is minimal. The report uses a health-protective approach to ensure public safety, which may overestimate actual risk. Community members are encouraged to continue reporting odor concerns to local and state agencies (https://bristolvalandfill.org/feedback).

VDH remains committed to supporting the City of Bristol and its residents. It will continue to work with local, state, and federal partners to monitor environmental conditions, provide public health guidance, and ensure transparency.

For more information on the ATSDR report please contact Dr. Michael Byrns, regional director of ATSDR Region 3 Office at (404) 498-1681 or by email at ab79@cdc.gov. Residents of Virginia with other health concerns or questions can contact the Public Health Toxicology Team at (804) 864-8182 or by email at toxicology@vdh.virginia.gov.

Mount Rogers Health District Reports Rabies Case in Groundhog in Hillsville

September 5, 2025
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, brianne.kilbourne@vdh.virginia.gov

Mount Rogers Health District Reports Rabies Case in Groundhog in Hillsville

HILLSVILLE, Va. – The Carroll County Health Department is alerting the public to a confirmed case of rabies in a groundhog that was captured on Thursday, September 4, 2025, on Farmers Market Drive by the Southwest Virginia Farmers’ Market near I-77 in Hillsville. The groundhog tested positive for rabies on Friday, September 5, 2025.

The animal reportedly charged a person before being euthanized and submitted for testing. This incident occurred in the same area where a rabid raccoon was identified less than a month ago. This is the seventh rabid animal identified in Carroll County since July 28th underscoring the growing public health concern.

“Rabies can take weeks or even months to develop in an animal after exposure, which is why it’s critical to remain vigilant even after a single case is reported,” said Dr. Meagan Helmick, Health Director for the Mount Rogers Health District. “We strongly urge the community not to engage with wild animals, as this can increase the risk of exposure and make it harder to identify sick animals. If you see an animal acting strangely, such as stumbling, foaming at the mouth, or showing no fear of people, please contact animal control immediately. And remember: no matter how friendly they seem, do not approach or feed wild animals.”

There may have been additional unknown exposures, as the animal was seen in a public area with high foot traffic. If you have information regarding any potential exposure to this animal through a bite, scratch, or contact with saliva in an open wound or through the eyes, nose, or mouth please contact the Carroll County Health Department at 276-730-3180. For after-hour exposure concerns, please contact the Carroll County Sheriff’s Department at 276-728-4146.

To support community prevention efforts, Galax-Carroll-Grayson Animal Shelter, the Twin County Humane Society, and Carroll Veterinary Clinic are offering free and low-cost rabies vaccination clinics this month.

Free Vaccination Clinics:

Saturday, September 20 at 8 a.m.
Galax-Carroll-Grayson Animal Shelter
200 Fair Street, Galax, VA
Register by September 15 using this link.

Sunday, September 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Twin County Humane Society
Hillsville Farmers Market (540 Pine Street, Hillsville, VA)
(Note: This is not the location where the rabid animals were found.)

Low-Cost Vaccination Clinics:

Ongoing through September 2025
Carroll Veterinary Clinic
Healthy Trail Lane, Hillsville, VA
Walk-ins welcome before 12:00 p.m. or after 3:00 p.m. on weekdays

Rabies is usually spread through the bite of an infected animal, but it can also be transmitted if the animal’s saliva or brain tissue gets into your eyes, mouth, nose, or an open cut. Exposure can also happen if your pet has direct contact with or is seen within close proximity to a rabid animal. All mammals, including humans, can get rabies. Symptoms may appear as early as a few days or as late as several months after exposure. Signs of rabies in animals can include:

  • Aggression or lack of fear of humans
  • Excessive drooling or foaming of the mouth
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Staggering or paralysis
  • Seizures
  • Fear of water

Carroll County Health Department reminds all residents to follow these important rabies prevention guidelines:

  • Do not feed or pet 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 at https://dwr.virginia.gov/ or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.

For more information about rabies, visit the VDH Rabies webpage at https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/animal-contact-human-health/rabies-control/.

Rabid Feral Cat Confirmed on North Main Street in Hillsville

August 22, 2025
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, brianne.kilbourne@vdh.virginia.gov

Rabid Feral Cat Confirmed on North Main Street in Hillsville

HILLSVILLE, Va. – The Carroll County Health Department is alerting the public to a confirmed case of rabies in a feral cat found acting aggressively on August 21, 2025, in the 1200 block of North Main Street in Hillsville. The cat, described as a short-haired gray feral feline, displayed classic signs of rabies, including unprovoked aggression and lack of fear of humans. It was reported lunging at pedestrians and possibly engaging with other animals in the area. The animal has since been captured and tested positive for rabies.

The area is expected to see a dramatic increase in foot traffic during the upcoming Labor Day Flea Market (August 29 – September 1), which draws thousands of visitors each year. Given the proximity to Carroll County Middle School, the public library, and influx of visitors next weekend, this incident raises public health concerns.

This is the fifth animal to test positive for rabies in Carroll County in the past month, underscoring the importance of community awareness and preventive action.

“Understanding how rabies spreads and how to prevent it is key to protecting our community,” said Dr. Meagan Helmick, Health Director for the Mount Rogers Health District. “Rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear, but it’s entirely preventable through vaccination and avoiding contact with unfamiliar animals.”

To support community prevention efforts, the Carroll Veterinary Clinic, located on Healthy Trail Lane in Hillsville, is offering $10 rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats now through August 29. Walk-in availability is open before 12:00 p.m. or after 3:00 p.m. on weekdays. Pet owners are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this low-cost opportunity to protect their animals and help reduce the spread of rabies in the community.

If you have information regarding any potential exposure to this animal through a bite, scratch, or contact with saliva in an open wound or through the eyes, nose, or mouth please contact the Carroll County Health Department at 276-730-3180. For after-hour exposure concerns, please contact the Carroll County Sheriff’s Department at 276-728-4146.

Rabies is usually spread through the bite of an infected animal, but it can also be transmitted if the animal’s saliva or brain tissue gets into your eyes, mouth, nose, or an open cut. Exposure can also happen if your pet has direct contact with or is seen within close proximity to a rabid animal. All mammals, including humans, can get rabies. Symptoms may appear as early as a few days or as late as several months after exposure. Signs of rabies in animals can include:

  • Aggression or lack of fear of humans
  • Excessive drooling or foaming of the mouth
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Staggering or paralysis
  • Seizures
  • Fear of water

Carroll County Health Department reminds all residents to follow these important rabies prevention guidelines:

  • Do not feed or pet 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 at https://dwr.virginia.gov/ or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.

For more information about rabies, visit the VDH Rabies webpage at https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/animal-contact-human-health/rabies-control/

Mount Rogers Health District Alerts Hillsville Residents and Visitors of Rabid Raccoon

August 13, 2025
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, brianne.kilbourne@vdh.virginia.gov

Mount Rogers Health District Alerts Hillsville Residents and Visitors of Rabid Raccoon
Public Urged to Avoid Feral Cats and Wildlife

HILLSVILLE, Va. – The Carroll County Health Department has confirmed a case of rabies involving a raccoon. The animal was found near the intersection of Carrollton Pike and Farmers Market Drive, close to restaurants and hotels at Exit 14 on Interstate 77. The raccoon was observed exhibiting unusual behavior on August 7. It was also reported to be involved in altercations with feral cats in the area. This raises concerns about potential rabies exposure among animals and humans.

With large crowds expected in the area due to several upcoming events, the Carroll County Health Department urges residents and visitors to take extra precautions.

“Rabies is 100% preventable but fatal once symptoms appear,” said Dr. Meagan Helmick, Health Director of Mount Rogers Health District. “We urge everyone to avoid contact with wild animals and feral cats, and to report any unusual animal behavior. Keeping pets vaccinated and staying alert is the best way to protect your family and our community.”

All mammals, including humans, can get rabies. Symptoms may appear as early as a few days or as late as several months after exposure.

Signs of rabies in animals may include:

  • Aggression or lack of fear of humans
  • Excessive drooling or foaming of the mouth
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Staggering or paralysis
  • Seizures
  • Fear of water

Rabies is mostly transmitted through animal bites. It can also be transmitted by saliva or brain tissue of a rabid animal if the saliva or tissue comes in contact with your eyes, mucous membranes, or open wounds. Exposures can also include direct contact or observed proximity between your pet and a rabid animal. If you have information regarding any potential exposure to this animal through a bite, scratch, or contact with saliva in an open wound or through the eyes, nose, or mouth, contact the Carroll County Health Department at 276-730-3180. For after-hour exposure concerns, contact the Carroll County Sheriff’s Department at 276-728-4146.

Carroll County Health Department reminds all residents to follow these important rabies prevention guidelines:

  • Do not feed or pet 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
  • Avoid handling sick, injured or dead animals.
  • Report any wild animal that appears to be ill, injured or orphaned to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources at https://dwr.virginia.gov/ or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator
  • 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

For more information about rabies, visit https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/animal-contact-human-health/rabies-control/.

El Distrito Sanitario de Mount Rogers Anuncia Próximas Clínicas de Vacunación Escolar

1 de Agosto, 2025
Contacto para los medios de comunicación: Brianne Kilbourne, Brianne.Kilbourne@vdh.virginia.gov

El Distrito Sanitario de Mount Rogers Anuncia Próximas Clínicas de Vacunación Escolar

BRISTOL, Va. – A medida que se acerca el año escolar 2025-2026, los Departamentos de Salud de la ciudad de Bristol y condado de Washington desean recordar a los padres y guardianes que todas las vacunas son obligatorias para todos los estudiantes. Encontrará una lista de las vacunas obligatorias aquí.

“Queremos que todos los niños crucen las puertas de la escuela en su primer día listos para aprender, y eso comienza estando al día con las vacunas obligatorias”, dijo la Dra. Meagan Helmick, directora del Distrito de Salud de Mount Rogers. “Para facilitar las cosas a las familias ocupadas, nuestros departamentos de salud ofrecerán horarios extendidos o fuera de las instalaciones en las próximas semanas, incluyendo consultas sin cita previa. No espere más: haga planes para vacunar a su hijo(a) ahora para que pueda comenzar la escuela a tiempo.”

Todos los estudiantes deben presentar prueba de vacunación antes del inicio de clases. Para ayudar a las familias a cumplir con estos requisitos, los Departamentos de Salud de la ciudad de Bristol y el condado de Washington organizarán clínicas de vacunación en las siguientes fechas y lugares:

Virginia Middle School – 501 Piedmont Ave., Bristol, VA 24201

Departamento de Salud de la ciudad de Bristol – 341 Piedmont Ave., Bristol, VA 24201

  • 12 de Agosto, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • 13 de Agosto, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Departamento de Salud del Condado de Washington – 15068 Lee Hwy., Suite 1000, Bristol, VA 24202

  • 5 de Agosto, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • 6 y 7 de Agosto, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Las vacunas se proporcionarán sin costo alguno. Las clínicas del departamento de salud tienen disponibilidad limitada para atender sin cita previa, por lo que se recomienda solicitar cita previa. Para programar una cita o si desea más información, comuníquese con el Departamento de Salud de la ciudad de Bristol al (276) 642-7335 o el Departamento de Salud del condado de Washington al (276) 676-5604.

Mount Rogers Health District Announces Upcoming School Vaccination Clinics for Bristol City and Washington County

August 1, 2025
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, Brianne.Kilbourne@vdh.virginia.gov

Mount Rogers Health District Announces Upcoming School Vaccination Clinics for Bristol City and Washington County

BRISTOL, Va. – As the 2025-2026 school year approaches, the Bristol City and Washington County Health Departments wants to remind parents and guardians that vaccinations are required for all students. A list of required vaccinations can be found here.

“We want every child to walk through the school doors on their first day ready to learn—and that starts with being up to date on their required vaccines,” said Dr. Meagan Helmick, Mount Rogers Health District Director. “To make it easier for busy families, our health departments are offering expanded or offsite hours in the coming weeks, including walk-ins. Don’t wait—make a plan to get your child vaccinated now so they can start school on time.”

All students must provide proof of immunization before school starts. To assist families in meeting these requirements, the Bristol City and Washington County Health Departments will host vaccination clinics on the following dates and locations:

Upcoming Clinics at Virginia Middle School – 501 Piedmont Ave., Bristol:

Upcoming Clinics at Bristol City Health Department – 341 Piedmont Ave., Bristol

  • August 12, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • August 13, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Upcoming Clinics at Washington County Health Department – 15068 Lee Highway, Suite 1000, Bristol:

  • August 5, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • August 6 and 7, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Vaccines will be provided at no cost. Clinics at the health department have limited walk-in availability and appointments are strongly encouraged. To schedule an appointment or if you want more information, please contact the Bristol City Health Department at (276) 642-7335 or the Washington County Health Department at (276) 676-5604.

Mount Rogers Health District Announces Upcoming School Vaccination Clinics for Smyth, Wythe, and Bland Counties

August 1, 2025
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, Brianne.Kilbourne@vdh.virginia.gov

Mount Rogers Health District Announces Upcoming School Vaccination Clinics for Smyth, Wythe, and Bland Counties

MARION, Va. – As the 2025-2026 school year approaches, the Smyth, Wythe, and Bland County Health Departments wants to remind parents and guardians that vaccinations are required for all students. A list of required vaccinations can be found here.

“We want every child to walk through the school doors on their first day ready to learn—and that starts with being up to date on their required vaccines,” said Dr. Meagan Helmick, Mount Rogers Health District Director. “To make it easier for busy families, our health departments are offering expanded or offsite hours in the coming weeks, including walk-ins. Don’t wait—make a plan to get your child vaccinated now so they can start school on time.”

All students must provide proof of immunization before school starts. To assist families in meeting these requirements, the Smyth, Wythe, and Bland County Health Departments will host vaccination clinics on the following dates and locations:

Smyth County Health Department, 201 Francis Marion Ln., Marion

  • August 4, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • August 6, 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
  • August 7, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Wythe County Health Department, 290 S. 6th St., Wytheville

  • August 6, 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
  • August 8, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Bland County Health Department, 209 Jackson St., Bland

  • August 11, 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
  • August 12, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Vaccines will be provided at no cost. Clinics at the health department have limited walk-in availability and appointments are strongly encouraged. To schedule an appointment or if you want more information, please contact the Smyth County Health Department at (276) 781-7460, the Wythe County Health Department at (276) 228-5507, or the Bland County Health Department at (276) 688-3642.

Mount Rogers Health District Highlights the Importance of UV Safety Awareness

July 14, 2025
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, brianne.kilbourne@vdh.virginia.gov

Mount Rogers Health District Highlights the Importance of UV Safety Awareness

MARION, Va. – The Mount Rogers Health District is reminding residents to protect themselves from the dangers of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

July is UV Safety Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of taking proactive steps now to prevent skin cancer, the most common type of cancer in the U.S. The good news is that skin cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer. No matter how much time you plan to spend outdoors enjoying the sunshine and summer activities, you should take extra precautions against the damaging rays which can put yourself at risk for several serious health issues.

“Protecting your skin from UV exposure isn’t just about avoiding sunburn. It’s about reducing your risk of skin cancer and long-term damage. Simple steps like wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and covering up can make a big difference. UV safety is something we can all practice, year-round,” said Dr. Meagan Helmick, Health Director for the Mount Rogers Health District.

Mount Roger Health District suggests several steps you can take to protect yourself from UV radiation.

  • Stay in the shade, especially during midday hours.
  • Wear clothes that cover your arms and legs.
  • Consider options to protect your children.
  • Wear a wide brim hat to shade your face, head, ears, and neck.
  • Wear wraparound sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
  • Use sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or higher, for both UVA and UVB protection.

Sunscreen protects you from sun exposure by reflecting or absorbing UV rays, but it wears off. Here are some tips on how to apply and select sunscreen:

  • Apply sunscreen to create a thick layer on the skin at least 20 minutes before you are put in the sun.
  • Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including ears, scalp, lips, neck, tops of feet, and backs of hands.
  • Reapply at least every two hours.
  • Use sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or higher.
  • Ensure your sunscreen “blocks UVA and UVB” or has “broad spectrum” on the label.
  • Reapply each time you get out of water or sweat heavily.
  • If you are also using insect repellent, apply sunscreen first and insect repellent second. Follow product label instructions to determine how often you need to reapply insect repellent and sunscreen.
  • Follow the sunscreen’s expiration date. Sunscreen without an expiration date has a shelf life of 3 years.

Sunscreen is not recommended for babies who are six months old or younger. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends keeping infants out of the sun during midday and using protective clothing if they have to be in the sun.

Sunlight exposure is highest during the summer between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. You are also at risk of UV radiation even on cloudy days. Be safe, use common sense and protect yourself from sun damage when outside, no matter what the weather.

The Virginia Department of Health and the Cancer Action Coalition of Virginia have partnered with the Virginia Recreation and Parks Society (VRPS) and Virginia schools to implement sun safety initiatives. Visit the Cancer Coalition webpage for more information.

Mount Rogers Health District Shares Drowning Prevention Tips

July 3, 2025
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, Brianne.Kilbourne@vdh.virginia.gov

Mount Rogers Health District Shares Drowning Prevention Tips
Celebrate the Fourth of July Safely

MARION, Va. –In Virginia, nearly 500 people have accidentally drowned over the last five years. In fact, drowning is a leading cause of death in children. If you are celebrating the holiday weekend near any body of water, Smyth County Health Department offers drowning prevention tips to keep you healthy and safe while swimming.

“Whether you’re at the pool, Holston Lake, or the New River, drowning can happen in an instant. Supervision, life jackets, and smart choices can save lives. Let’s make safety a part of every swim this summer.” Meagan Helmick, PhD, MPH, CHES®, Director for Mount Rogers Health District advised.

Drowning often occurs quickly and silently. Unlike the movies, drowning doesn’t usually involve thrashing and shouting. The signs of drowning are more subtle and last only 20-60 seconds before the person goes under.

Smyth County Health Department offers these preventions tips:

  • Provide active supervision for all children in the water. A responsible adult should watch children closely when they are in or around water. Adults should not be distracted or engaged in other activities, even if lifeguards are present. For preschool-aged children, “touch supervision” is recommended, where the supervising adult is within arm’s reach of the child.
  • Learn to swim. Knowing how to swim can reduce the risk of drowning.
  • Learn CPR. Make sure we know what to do if someone needs help in the water.
  • Always swim with a buddy. Never swim alone.
  • Avoid swimming after dark. Signs of drowning are harder to see.
  • Watch for swimming hazards like rip currents and rough waters.
  • Observe any advisories and listen to lifeguards.
  • “Floaties,” arm bands, water wings are toys, not safety devices. When these toys are in use, the caregiver must still provide active supervision. Wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets.

Stay vigilant this summer. Let’s make our pools and beaches safer for everyone! Visit swimhealthyva.com for more information.