Tag: rsv

Respiratory Illnesses Are High in Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other steps you can take to stay healthy include:

  • Staying home when sick.
  • Washing your hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Covering coughs and sneezes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RHHD shares these tips to healthy and safe holiday travel:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Washing Hands

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

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

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

Covering Your Cough

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

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

Getting Immunized

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

Washing Hands

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

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

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

Covering Your Cough

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

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

Getting Immunized

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Washing Hands

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

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

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

Covering Your Cough

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

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

Getting Immunized

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

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

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

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

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

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Stay Safe and Protect Against Respiratory Viruses Amid Rising Cases

December 30, 2024
Media Contact: Kathy Lamm, kathy.lamm@vdh.virginia.gov, 757-236-0529

Stay Safe and Protect Against Respiratory Viruses Amid Rising Cases

NORFOLK, Va. – As Virginia experiences an increase in respiratory virus activity, the Norfolk Department of Public Health (NDPH) urges residents to take preventive measures to protect themselves and others from COVID-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). With respiratory illness rates typically peaking between December and February, now is the time for Virginians to stay informed and act to reduce their risk of severe illness.

Upcoming Vaccination Clinics:

  • NDPH is hosting a mobile immunization clinic at the Richard A. Tucker Library (2350 Berkley Ave, 23523) on Saturday, January 11th from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome, no appointment necessary.
  • NDPH offers a weekly COVID-19 and flu clinic, providing essential vaccination services to the community every Thursday from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. until February 27, 2025 (excluding the third Thursday of the month). Everyone is welcome, no appointment necessary.
  • To schedule an immunization appointment, please call (757) 683-2735.

Respiratory viruses are common during the fall and winter months, but vaccination and proactive health measures can significantly reduce their impact. NDPH emphasizes that staying up to date on COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccinations is the most effective way to protect against these illnesses. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene practices, staying home when sick, and improving indoor ventilation can help prevent the spread of these viruses.

Main Prevention and Health Recommendations:

  • Vaccines: The updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 and flu vaccines are now available and highly recommended for everyone six months and older. For individuals at higher risk, such as those aged 65 and older or those with underlying health conditions, vaccination is especially critical. RSV vaccines are also available for certain vulnerable populations, including older adults and infants.
  • Good Hygiene: Virginians are urged to wash hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, and avoid touching their face with unwashed hands. Improving ventilation and cleaning frequently touched surfaces can also reduce the risk of transmission.
  • Testing and Treatment: At-home tests for COVID-19 and flu are widely available, and Virginians are encouraged to use them if they exhibit symptoms. Individuals who test positive should contact their healthcare provider to determine if antiviral treatments are necessary. Early treatment is critical to reducing the risk of severe illness.
  • Stay Home When Sick: Individuals showing symptoms of a respiratory illness should stay home until they are symptom-free for at least 24 hours and have no fever, even if they are no longer using fever-reducing medications.

Current Respiratory Virus Trends in Virginia:

While the overall respiratory illness activity in Virginia is currently moderate, COVID-19, flu, and RSV cases are on the rise. NDPH continues to monitor these trends and advises the public to remain vigilant, as respiratory illness activity is expected to increase over the coming weeks.

Key Points on COVID-19, Flu, and RSV:

  • COVID-19: The updated 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccines are critical for reducing severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Those at higher risk for complications should seek testing and early treatment.
  • Flu: Flu vaccination remains a vital tool in preventing serious illness, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and young children. The flu vaccine reduces the likelihood of severe disease and hospitalizations.
  • RSV: While most RSV cases resolve on their own, it can lead to serious complications in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Vaccines are available for at-risk populations to help prevent severe disease.

Additional Resources:

The Norfolk Department of Public Health remains committed to providing resources to support public health and help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. For further information, including testing locations and vaccination centers, visit NorfolkPublicHealth.com.

 

 

Pass the Stuffing, Not the Flu This Thanksgiving

November 22, 2024
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, RHHDpr@vdh.virginia.gov, 804-807-1727

Pass the Stuffing, Not the Flu This Thanksgiving
 Health Officials Encourage Vaccinating Against Respiratory Illnesses
Before Gathering with Family and Friends

RICHMOND, Va. – Turkey, stuffing, and family gatherings are on the horizon – and so are respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Richmond and Henrico Health Districts remind residents that getting vaccinated now could help keep you and your loved ones healthy throughout the holiday season.

“Staying up to date on your vaccinations is one of the best ways to prevent severe respiratory illness,” says Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “Since we don’t have vaccines against all the germs that can make us sick this time of year, it’s especially important to get the vaccines we do have, like those against flu, COVID-19 and RSV.”

Health officials recommend everyone 6 months or older get vaccinated against COVID-19 and flu. If you haven’t gotten the RSV vaccine and are 60-74 years old with a health condition, speak with your healthcare provider about whether the RSV vaccine is the right choice for you. Pregnant women and parents of newborns should also talk with their provider about the benefits of the RSV vaccine and RSV antibodies.

Other prevention steps people can take to stay healthy include:

  • Staying home when sick
  • Washing your hands frequently with soap and water
  • Covering coughs and sneezes

“Staying home when you are sick is one of the most powerful things you can do to protect the ones you love from respiratory illness,” said Dr. Perry. “Simple prevention steps like washing your hands frequently and covering coughs and sneezes can also go a long way.”

For more information about how to stay healthy during respiratory illness season and all year round, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov.

Pass the Stuffing, Not the Flu This Thanksgiving

November 21, 2024
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, (757) 641-7091 kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

Pass the Stuffing, Not the Flu This Thanksgiving
Health Officials Encourage Vaccinating Against Respiratory Illnesses
Before Gathering with Family and Friends

CHESAPEAKE, Va. – Turkey, stuffing, and family gatherings are on the horizon – and so are respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV. The Chesapeake Health Department reminds residents that getting vaccinated now could help keep you and your loved ones healthy throughout the holiday season.

“Staying up to date on your vaccinations is one of the best ways to prevent severe respiratory illness,” says Dr. Nancy Welch, Director, Chesapeake Health Department. “If you haven’t already been vaccinated against respiratory illnesses like flu, COVID-19 and RSV this season, do it as soon as possible ahead of the holidays.”

Health officials recommend everyone 6 months or older get vaccinated against COVID-19 and flu. If you haven’t gotten the RSV vaccine and are 60-74 years old with a health condition, speak with your healthcare provider about whether the RSV vaccine is the right choice for you. Pregnant women and parents of newborns should also talk with their provider about the benefits of the RSV vaccine.

Other prevention steps people can take to stay healthy include:

  • Staying home when sick
  • Washing your hands frequently with soap and water
  • Covering coughs and sneezes

“One of the most powerful things you can do if you become ill is to avoid public spaces, including your place of employment. Staying away from others when we are symptomatic will protect those around us, especially those who may be medically vulnerable.” Dr. Welch said. “Simple prevention steps like washing your hands frequently and covering coughs and sneezes can also go a long way.”

For more information about how to stay healthy during respiratory illness season and all year round, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov.

Pass the Stuffing, Not the Flu This Thanksgiving

November 20, 2024
Media Contact: Kristy Fowler, 804-461-8093, kristy.fowler@vdh.virginia.gov

Pass the Stuffing, Not the Flu This Thanksgiving
Health Officials Encourage Vaccinating Against Respiratory Illnesses
Before Gathering with Family and Friends

Chesterfield, Va. – Turkey, stuffing, and family gatherings are on the horizon – and so are respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV. The Chesterfield Health District reminds residents that getting vaccinated now could help keep you and your loved ones healthy throughout the holiday season.

“Staying up to date on your vaccinations is one of the best ways to prevent severe respiratory illness,” says Alexander Samuel, M.D. “If you haven’t already been vaccinated against respiratory illnesses like flu, COVID-19 and RSV this season, do it as soon as possible ahead of the holidays.”

Health officials recommend everyone 6 months or older get vaccinated against COVID-19 and flu. If you haven’t gotten the RSV vaccine and are 60-74 years old with a health condition, speak with your healthcare provider about whether the RSV vaccine is the right choice for you. Pregnant women and parents of newborns should also talk with their provider about the benefits of the RSV vaccine.

Other prevention steps people can take to stay healthy include:

  • Staying home when sick
  • Washing your hands frequently with soap and water
  • Covering coughs and sneezes

“Staying home when you are sick is one of the most powerful things you can do to protect the ones you love from getting sick,” Dr. Samuel said. “Simple prevention steps like washing your hands frequently and covering coughs and sneezes can also go a long way.”

For more information about how to stay healthy during respiratory illness season and all year round, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov.