Tag: naloxone

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.

Crater Health District Gives Tips to Combat Substance Use Disorder This Winter

February 20, 2026

Media Contact: RaShel Charles, District PIO, RaShel.Charles@vdh.virignia.gov

Tara Rose. Alternate PIO Tara.Rose@vdh.virginia.gov

Crater Health District Gives Tips to Combat Substance Use Disorder This Winter

PETERSBURG, Va. – Winter is often a time of reflection and resolution, but for some, it’s a time when substance use increases. Crater Health District (CHD) reminds the community that substance use disorder (SUD) is a critical issue highlighted during this time of year, particularly as individuals and communities set intentions for improvement and recovery.

“Substance Use Disorder affects every part of our community, and no one should face it alone.” said Crater District Health Director, Dr. Alton Hart, Jr. “This month, we renew our commitment to reducing stigma, expanding access to care, and supporting every person on their path to recovery.”

Winter months often bring unique challenges that can increase the risk of drug use. Shorter daylight hours, colder temperatures, and reduced opportunities for outdoor activities can lead to feelings of isolation and seasonal depression. Social gatherings and celebrations where substances may be present can create an environment where individuals are more vulnerable to relapses or misuse. Understanding these risks is essential for developing strategies to maintain sobriety and support overall well-being during this season.

“Substance use disorder is not a moral failing, it is a treatable, chronic brain disorder,” said Elle Merkle, Overdose Prevention Coordinator. “Our CHD Overdose Prevention Team works to expand health education, increase access to naloxone, and connect people with evidence-based treatment and resources to strengthen recovery and help build more resilient communities.”

The CHD Overdose Prevention Team provides:

  • REVIVE! Overdose prevention training with free naloxone.
  • Opioid prevention education and distributes fentanyl and xylazine test strips.
  • Community linkages to care.
  • Peer Recovery Specialist Alliance Network.
  • Resource connections and collaborative partnerships.
  • Support for long-term recovery.

Crater Health District share tips to stay resilient:

  • Stay connected with friends, family, and recovery groups.
  • Anticipate high-risk situations and rehearse responses.
  • Set boundaries for social events.
  • Remain aware of personal triggers that are brought on by large social gatherings, especially when alcohol is served.
  • Substance use struggles often happen together with mood disorders like depression or anxiety increasing vulnerability during stressful times in winter.
  • Maximize daylight exposure, ensure proper sleep, exercise regularly, and eat balanced meals.
  • Replace substance-related habits with comforting alternatives like tea, journaling, or meditation. Use journaling to identify patterns and act early on warning signs.
  • Join support groups or volunteer to boost mood and structure.
  • Connect with professional help if needed.

If you have drug or alcohol concerns, mental health struggles, emotional distress, or just need someone to talk to, call, text, or chat the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. A trained crisis worker can provide immediate help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you have questions about SUD or looking for direct linkage to recovery resources and treatment call 804-863-1652 or visit Crater Health District. If you need more information about our CHD Overdose Prevention Team, contact Elle Merkle at Elle.Merkle@vdh.virginia.gov 804-481-2042 or JaDa Woodley at Jada.Woodley@vdh.virginia.gov 804-704-7554.

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Southside Health District Encourages REVIVE Training, and CPR in Chase City

October 30, 2025

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

Southside Health District Encourages REVIVE Training, and CPR in Chase City
New Meeting Location Listed Below

CHASE CITY, Va. – The Southside Health District encourages you to sign up for both Revive and CPR training on Saturday, November 8. You will learn how these recovery practices can save a life in this free, two-session training. The REVIVE! training is from 9-11 a.m. that day and the CPR class is from 12-2 p.m. Both classes are being held at a NEW LOCATION – the Fire Department in Chase City. 213 E 2nd St, Chase City, VA 23924

“Taking the REVIVE! training we offer and knowing how to properly use Naloxone when needed, or applying CPR in an emergency could help to save someone’s life,” said Scott J. Spillmann, MD, MPH, director, Pittsylvania Danville Health Department.

Fentanyl is a dangerous drug that is being found in illegal drugs across Virginia. Just a tiny amount can cause an overdose that may be deadly. More than 90 percent of overdose deaths are accidental. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) works with the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services to offer free REVIVE! training classes throughout Virginia.

The REVIVE! training is from 9-11 a.m. that day and the CPR class is from 12-2 p.m. Both classes are being held at the Fire Department in Chase City. 213 E 2nd St, Chase City, VA 23924.

  • Participants will learn to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose, respond to an opioid emergency, and effectively use Naloxone. Naloxone is now an over-the-counter medication that reverses an overdose that might otherwise be fatal. CPR teach hands-on lifesaving skills for adults, children and infants as well as AED use.
  • To register, complete the online form or call (804) 914-2608. Space is limited, so register today. The training is open to all community members and there are no prerequisites to participate. Upon completion, each participant will receive two doses of Naloxone nasal spray. The training takes approximately 60 minutes.
  • An opioid overdose is a life-threatening medical emergency. If you think an overdose may occur, it is important to act quickly to save a life and call 911 immediately.

For more information or to schedule additional trainings, contact Amanda Hutchins at (804) 914-2608 or amanda.hutchins1@vdh.virginia.gov.

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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.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Provides Services to Reduce Overdose Deaths

August 25, 2025
Media Contact: Dr Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Provides Services to Reduce Overdose Deaths
International Overdose Awareness Day is August 31.

WARRENTON, Va. – August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day, a day to remember and grieve loved ones who lost their lives to drug overdoses the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District is a key community partner in the fight to prevent drug overdoses. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health 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. In the past five years, the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District has experienced more than 200 overdose deaths. However, the drug overdose emergency department visit rates have been declining from 79.5% in 2020 to 37.5% in 2024.

Every life lost to overdose is a tragedy that ripples through families, schools, and workplaces. We honor those we have lost by strengthening our commitment to prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Every life lost to overdose is a tragedy that ripples through families, schools, and workplaces. We honor those we have lost by strengthening our commitment to prevention, treatment, and recovery. the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District overdose prevention services include:

  • Naloxone kits,
  • Overdose reversal education,
  • Drug test strips,
  • HIV and hepatitis testing, and
  • Connections to medical care and support services.

Learn how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose at the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District ’s REVIVE! Training. To schedule your naloxone training email AskRRHD@vdh.virginia.gov or call your local health department. You can also email questions to overdose@vdh.virginia.gov.

For more information on drug overdose prevention resources, contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at AskRRHD@vdh.virginia.gov. You can also email questions to overdose@vdh.virginia.gov.

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Piedmont Health District Announces Transition of Services as Cumberland County Health Department Relocates

July 3, 2025
Media Contact: Sarah Kott, Sarah.kott@vdh.virginia.gov

Piedmont Health District Announces Transition of Services as Cumberland County Health Department Relocates

CUMBERLAND, VA – Effective Monday, July 14, the Piedmont Health District will temporarily relocate the clinical services and administrative operations offered at 15 Foster Road by the Cumberland County Health Department in preparation for a move to a new health department location.

While the new space for the Cumberland County Health Department is determined, certain services previously offered in Cumberland will continue at the Prince Edward County Health Department, 111 N South St., Farmville, VA 23901, beginning Monday, July 14. These services include:

· Vaccination Clinics

· Family Planning/Pregnancy Prevention Clinics

· Sexual Health Clinics (including STD/STI testing and treatment)

· Naloxone (Opioid Overdose Reversal) Training

· Animal Bite Investigations

· Requests for Medicaid Long-term Services and Support (nursing home) screenings, coordinated with DSS

· Records Requests including clinical or septic system/well records

· Requests for septic system/well permit applications

The WIC clinic for Cumberland County residents will initially be offered at the Buckingham County Health Department, 80 Administration Lane, Buckingham, VA 23921. A new location will soon be available for WIC clients in Cumberland County.

Any VDH health department will be able to assist with obtaining vital records, which include birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates. Alternatively, vital records may be obtained online at www.vdh.virginia.gov/vital-records/

For more information, please contact Sarah Kott at sarah.kott@vdh.virginia.gov or call the Prince Edward Health Department at 434-392-8187 x137.

Southside Health District Offers REVIVE, CPR Training in South Boston

April 25, 2025
Media Contact: Brian C. Little, Sr., brian.little@vdh.virginia.gov

Southside Health District Offers REVIVE, CPR Training in South Boston

SOUTH BOSTON, Va. — Southside Health District, in collaboration with the Southside Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) and Southside Behavioral Health, will offer free CPR and REVIVE!

Date: Saturday, May 3
Location: Ash Avenue Baptist Church, 900 Ash Ave., South Boston

Scheduled Classes:
Instruction provided by Southside MRC
CPR – 10 a.m. – Noon
REVIVE! class – 1 – 2 p.m.

Registration begins at 9:30 a.m.
To preregister, complete the online form or call (804) 914-2608.

“Opioid overdose is one of the leading causes of unnatural death in Virginia,” said Pittsylvania-Danville and Southside Health District Director Scott J. Spillmann, MD, MPH. “CPR and REVIVE! training provide essential skills to help people respond to individuals experiencing a medical emergency.”

REVIVE! participants will gain skills to respond to an opioid emergency and learn how to effectively use naloxone. Upon completion, the class participants will receive two free doses of naloxone, two face shields and two pairs of gloves. People aged 18 and older are encouraged to attend REVIVE! training. Minors are welcome to observe the classes with parental consent.

In addition to the REVIVE! classes, community members will be given the opportunity to learn how to save lives through CPR. Individuals of all ages may register for this class.

Heart attacks and opioid overdose are life-threatening medical emergencies. If you think either a heart attack or an overdose may be occurring, it is important to act quickly to save a life and call 911 immediately.

For more information, or to schedule additional trainings, contact Amanda Hutchins at (804) 914-2608 or amanda.hutchins1@vdh.virginia.gov.

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Cumberland Plateau Health District Offers Community Opioid Overdose Prevention Training

April 14, 2025
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, PIO, daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau Health District
Offers Community Opioid Overdose Prevention Training

LEBANON, Va. — The Virginia Department of Health’s Cumberland Plateau Health District is advising the public that substances laced with fentanyl or fentanyl derivatives have been reported in the area. These substances can be potentially fatal to people who use them.

To help community members prevent fatal opioid overdoses, Cumberland Plateau Health District in partnership with Cumberland Mountain Community Services Board, and the Appalachian Substance Abuse Coalition (ASAC) will host several local events to distribute free naloxone. Naloxone (also known as Narcan®,) is a fast-acting, safe and easy-to-administer nasal spray that can restore breathing and reduce potentially fatal effects of opioid overdoses. Naloxone should be given to any person who shows signs of an opioid overdose or when an overdose is suspected. A family member, bystander, first responder, or medical provider can administer naloxone to save lives. As a reminder, if you come across someone who has overdosed, you should call 911.

“Opioid overdoses are increasing throughout the country as well as in our own region and we want to help keep our communities safe. A person who has overdosed is unresponsive and unable to self-administer an antidote,” said Daniel Hunsucker, population health coordinator, LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts. “These events give family members, friends and community members the training and tools to recognize and respond to an overdose to help save lives.”

Free naloxone training and distribution events are open to the public and are available on a walk-in basis. No pre-registration is required. Individuals who attend will learn how to use naloxone and will receive a free box containing two doses. Cumberland Plateau Health District does not ask for identification when distributing naloxone.

Naloxone Training Schedule:

  • Tuesday, April 14
    • Roger Jessee Food Bank, Castlewood; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Wednesday, April 15
    • Rescue/Community Center Parking Lot Dante Rescue; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Saturday, April 19
    • Mendota Health Fair, Mendota; 9 a.m.

“Many families have been touched in some way by the opioid epidemic,” said Daniel Hunsucker. “Getting trained and carrying naloxone is a great way for communities to get involved. Everyone is encouraged to get trained at these events and take advantage of the no-cost naloxone while it is available.”

For more information about opioids, visit www.CDC.gov/opioids. For more information about how to get free Narcan®, call your local health department.

Cumberland Plateau Health District:

  • Buchanan County 276-935-4591
  • Dickenson County 276-926-4979
  • Russell County 276-889-7621
  • Tazewell County 276-988-5585

Mount Rogers Health District Highlights Achievements in 2024 Annual Report

January 30, 2025
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, 276-781-7450

Mount Rogers Health District Highlights Achievements in 2024 Annual Report

MARION, Va. – The Mount Rogers Health District (MRHD) has unveiled its 2024 Annual Report, spotlighting a year of significant progress in improving community health and well-being across its eight localities. The report underscores the district’s ongoing commitment to addressing pressing public health challenges while fostering collaboration with community partners.

The report highlights a range of clinical achievements, including the administration of more than 7,000 immunizations, which played a critical role in preventing vaccine-preventable diseases. Through the Every Woman’s Life program, 173 women received essential screenings for breast and cervical cancer, offering life-saving early detection. Additionally, the Oral Health program expanded its reach to over 1,100 students, a nearly 200% increase from the previous year. These efforts reflect MRHD’s focus on equitable access to preventive healthcare services.

In response to the opioid epidemic, MRHD made substantial strides in substance use disorder prevention. The district’s REVIVE! training educated over 810 participants on recognizing and responding to overdoses, while more than 1,800 doses of naloxone were distributed to those in need. Comprehensive Harm Reduction services, which support individuals at high risk of overdose, reached 578 participants, offering life-saving resources and a pathway to recovery.

Emergency preparedness efforts were another cornerstone of MRHD’s work in 2024. The district earned the prestigious Project Public Health Ready designation, highlighting its robust readiness to address public health emergencies. Medical Reserve Corps volunteers contributed over 970 hours of service, providing critical support during both emergency and non-emergency events. Training initiatives, such as CPR and Stop the Bleed programs, equipped community members with essential skills to save lives in critical situations.

Programs supporting family and child health also made a significant impact. The BabyCare program conducted over 1,400 home visits, offering personalized support to 225 mothers and infants. Meanwhile, the Child Safety program provided 309 free car seats, accompanied by hands-on education, to families across the district. These initiatives underscore MRHD’s dedication to nurturing the health and safety of future generations.

MRHD also conducted a comprehensive Community Health Assessment (CHA) across its eight localities, gathering feedback from over 1,600 residents. This process identified key health priorities, including mental health, obesity, substance use disorders, and access to care, which will shape the district’s future strategic planning and health improvement efforts.

Promoting health equity remained a central focus throughout 2024. The district launched a Spanish-language phone line to improve access for non-English-speaking residents, handling over 100 calls since its inception. The health equity team also attended more than 70 community events, ensuring resources and services reached underserved populations.

Health Director Dr. Meagan Helmick reflected on the district’s accomplishments: “The 2024 Annual Report demonstrates Mount Rogers Health District’s steadfast dedication to protecting and promoting the health of our communities. From addressing the opioid epidemic to enhancing emergency preparedness, our team continues to respond to the evolving needs of our residents.”

For the full Annual Report or more information about MRHD services, visit the district’s website at Virginia Department of Health – Mount Rogers Health District.

Southside Health District Offers Revive! Training in Chase City

October 1, 2024
Media Contact: Brookie Crawford, brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov

Southside Health District Offers Revive! Training in Chase City

CHASE CITY, Va. – Southside Health District, in conjunction with the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services, Southside Behavioral Health, and Southside Medical Reserve Corps, will offer Revive! training Thursday, October 3 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Estes Community Center, located at 316 N. Main St. in Chase City.

REVIVE! is Virginia’s statewide opioid overdose and naloxone education program. Since 2013, fatal drug overdose continues to be the leading method of unnatural death in Virginia.

Participants will learn to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose, respond to an opioid emergency, and effectively use Naloxone. Naloxone is now an over-the-counter medication that reverses an overdose that might otherwise be fatal.

To register, complete the online form or call (804) 914-2608. Space is limited, so register today. The training is open to all community members and there are no prerequisites to participate. Upon completion, each participant will receive two doses of Naloxone nasal spray. The training takes approximately 60 minutes.

An opioid overdose is a life-threatening medical emergency. If you think an overdose may be occurring, it is important to act quickly to save a life and call 911 immediately.

For more information or to schedule additional trainings, contact Amanda Hutchins at (804) 914-2608 or amanda.hutchins1@vdh.virginia.gov.

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