Tag: tdap

BRHD to Host Back-to-School Vaccine Clinic on April 25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
BRHD to Host Back-to-School Vaccine Clinic on April 25
Charlottesville, VA — The Virginia Department of Health’s Blue Ridge Health District (BRHD) will host a back-to-school vaccine clinic on Saturday, April 25, from 8–11 a.m. at the Charlottesville/Albemarle Health Department, located at 1138 Rose Hill Drive (Door #1).
The clinic will offer Tdap, Meningococcal (MCV), and HPV vaccines for rising 6th through 12th grade students. These vaccines help protect adolescents against serious illnesses and are required for school attendance in Virginia.
Appointments are encouraged and can be made by calling 434-972-6269. Walk-ins are also welcome. Parents and guardians are asked to bring their child’s insurance or Medicaid card if available; however, uninsured children are welcome and will be served. All minors must be accompanied by an adult age 18 or older.
For more information on vaccines and school health requirements, please visit the Virginia Department of Health website.

Central Shenandoah Health District Holding Spring In-School Vaccine Clinics for Middle and High School Students

March 31, 2026
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Central Shenandoah Health District Holding Spring In-School Vaccine Clinics for Middle and High School Students

HARRISONBURG, Va. – The Central Shenandoah Health District will be holding in-school vaccine clinics this spring for rising 7th and 12th graders within Harrisonburg City and Rockingham County Public School Districts. The vaccines available at these clinics are human papillomavirus (HPV), Meningococcal ACWY, and Tdap. These vaccines are available at no cost for those with and without insurance. The Code of Virginia requires children entering daycare, and public or private schools to give proof of vaccination before enrolling in school. The vaccines should be given based on the schedule recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

“We recognize that time is valuable and the closer we get to summer, adults get even busier with vacations and other priorities. We encourage students to get their vaccines sooner rather than later when there can be a rush just before school begins in the fall,” said Xavier Crockett, Health Director of the Central Shenandoah Health District. “To make getting these important vaccines more convenient, CSHD will be hosting in-school vaccination clinics beginning in early April.”

In-school vaccine clinics dates and locations include:

Harrisonburg City Public Schools

  • Harrisonburg High School: April 16
  • Thomas Harrison Middle School: April 22
  • Rocktown High School: April 23
  • Skyline Middle School: April 30

Rockingham County Public Schools

  • Wilbur Pence Middle School: April 8
  • Turner Ashby High School: April 15
  • Broadway High School & J. Frank Middle School: April 20
  • Spotswood High School & Montevideo Middle School: April 24
  • East Rock High School & Elkton Middle School: April 29

Additional schools may be added in the future. Parents are encouraged to visit our website for up-to-date information about the in-school clinic schedule www.vdh.virginia.gov/central-shenandoah/health-services/immunizations/

Only students enrolled in the above listed individual schools and their corresponding clinics may attend these in-school clinics. School required vaccines are also available at your local health department. For more information or to make an appointment, contact your local health department.

Those who qualify for the Vaccine for Children Program will not be billed. If a student has insurance, they must provide their insurance information since insurance will be billed. Parents must complete and submit to the school a signed consent form for their children to receive any vaccines at these clinics. Signed consent forms should be turned in to the children’s school prior to the clinic date. Without a signed consent form, children cannot receive any vaccinations.

To see which vaccines are needed for various age groups, review the AAP Vaccination Schedule.

For more information on vaccines, visit: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/immunization/

 

Cumberland Plateau Health District Shares Important Vaccination Information for Those Impacted by the Recent Floods

July 22, 2025
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, PIO, daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau Health District Shares Important Vaccination Information for Those Impacted by the Recent Floods

LEBANON, Va. — The Cumberland Plateau Health District is giving free Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap) vaccines to those affected by the flooding, responding to emergency situations, or those assisting with the recovery. Vaccines will be given at the Dante Community Center on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, 1 – 3 p.m.

The health department reminds residents and first responders to ensure their tetanus vaccinations are up to date. Tetanus, sometimes called “lockjaw,” can cause symptoms such as fever, jaw cramping, muscle spasms, and seizures.  Tetanus bacteria is found naturally in soil. If you wade through flood water, you could encounter sharp objects and sustain an injury that allows the tetanus bacteria to enter your body. Although tetanus infection is rare, it can be very serious or even fatal.

The best way to prevent infection is to be vaccinated prior to exposure, which is why all adults should receive tetanus shots every 10 years. However, tetanus vaccination is still effective if given within 48 hours after an injury.

You may need a tetanus booster shot if:

  • It has been more than 10 years since your last tetanus vaccination
  • You have a puncture wound and it has been more than five years since your last tetanus vaccination
  • You have a wound that has come in contact with floodwater, and it has been more than five years since your last tetanus vaccination.

If you’re not sure if you need a tetanus vaccine, contact your primary care provider or your local health department.

For more information about tetanus, visit https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/epidemiology/epidemiology-fact-sheets/tetanus-lockjaw/

 

 

 

Central Shenandoah Offers School Required Immunizations at Staunton and Waynesboro Back-to-School Events

July 9, 2025
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov

Central Shenandoah Offers School Required Immunizations at Staunton and Waynesboro Back-to-School Events

STAUNTON, Va. – The Central Shenandoah Health District will offer school required immunizations for rising 7th and 12th graders at the Staunton City Schools’ and Waynesboro Public Schools’ Back-to-School events this summer. The types of vaccines available at these clinics are Human papillomavirus (HPV), Meningococcal ACWY, and Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap). The Code of Virginia requires children entering daycare, and public or private schools to give proof of vaccination before enrolling in school. The vaccines should be given based on the schedule recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), American Academy of Pediatrics, and American Academy of Family Physicians.

The locations and dates of these Back-to-School events are listed below:

Monday, July 21, 1-6 p.m.
Staunton High School, 1301 N Coalter St, Staunton, VA 24401

Sunday, July 20, 1-6 p.m.
Embrace Community Center, 932 Fir St, Waynesboro, VA 22980.

These vaccines are available at no cost for those with and without insurance. Those who qualify for the Vaccine for Children Program will not be billed. If a student has insurance, they must provide their insurance information for insurance to be billed.

“These summertime vaccine events are one of the most convenient ways for children and parents to prepare for the next school year,” said Dr. Allison Baroco, acting health director. “Taking advantage of this opportunity now will prevent the last-minute rush as the first day of school approaches. It is important for children to be vaccinated so they may be less likely to get sick and miss school. Ultimately, this will enable them to devote more time to their academic performance and social development.”

Only students enrolled in Staunton and Waynesboro City Schools and their corresponding events may participate in these immunization opportunities. School required immunizations are also available at your local health department by appointment. To see when a child is due for their next vaccine, view the VIRGINIA VACCINATION SCHEDULE.

March 20, 2025
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, PIO, daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

Cumberland Plateau Health District Offers In-School Vaccination Clinics

LEBANON, Va. — The Virginia Department of Health’s Cumberland Plateau Health District will be holding in-school vaccine clinics for rising 7th and 12th graders in Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell, and Tazewell counties this spring. The types of vaccines available at these clinics are human papillomavirus (HPV), Meningococcal ACWY, and Tdap. These vaccines are available at no cost for those with and without insurance. The Code of Virginia requires children entering daycare, and public or private schools to give proof of vaccination before enrolling in school. The vaccines should be given based on the schedule recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), American Academy of Pediatrics, and American Academy of Family Physicians.

Those who qualify for the Vaccine for Children Program will not be billed. If a student has insurance, they must provide their insurance information since insurance will be billed. Parents must complete and submit to the school a signed consent form for their children to receive any vaccines at these clinics. Signed consent forms should be turned in to the children’s school prior to the clinic date. Without a signed consent form, children cannot receive any vaccinations.

“In-school vaccine clinics are one of the most convenient ways for children and parents to prepare for the next school year without having to take time away from your summer fun.” said Reisa Sloce, Director of the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Vaccines offer effective protection for everyone in the community from serious illnesses such as polio, measles, whooping cough, influenza, meningitis, chickenpox and pneumonia.  School vaccines are crucial for protecting children from serious diseases, preventing outbreaks in schools, as well as ensuring a healthier and safer learning environment for everyone”.

Pre-registration is required for those students needing vaccines. Please visit the following website to register your child: https://redcap.link/cpspring25

Location and dates of these in-school vaccine clinics include:

  • Tazewell County
    • April 1: Graham High & Graham Middle
    • April 2: Tazewell High & Tazewell Middle
    • April 4: Richlands High & Richlands Middle
  • Dickenson County:
    • April 10: Ridgeview High & Ridgeview Middle
  • Russell County:
    • April 14: Honaker High & Honaker Elementary
    • April 15: Castlewood High & Castlewood Elementary
    • April 16: Lebanon High, Russell Vocational School & Lebanon Middle
  • Buchanan County
    • April 21: Twin Valley High, Hurley High, & Hurley Middle
    • April 22: Council High, Council Middle, & Twin Valley Middle
    • April 24: Riverview & Grundy High

School required vaccines are also available at your local health department. For more information or to make an appointment, contact your local health department:

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

To see which vaccines are needed for various age groups, review the Virginia vaccination schedule here: VIRGINIA VACCINATION SCHEDULE

 

LENOWISCO Health District Offers In-School Vaccination Clinics

March 20, 2025
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, PIO, daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

LENOWISCO Health District Offers In-School Vaccination Clinics

WISE, Va. — The Virginia Department of Health’s LENOWISCO Health District will be holding in-school vaccine clinics for rising 7th and 12th graders in Lee, Scott, and Wise counties and the City of Norton this spring. The types of vaccines available at these clinics are human papillomavirus (HPV), Meningococcal ACWY, and Tdap. These vaccines are available at no cost for those with and without insurance. The Code of Virginia requires children entering daycare, and public or private schools to give proof of vaccination before enrolling in school. The vaccines should be given based on the schedule recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), American Academy of Pediatrics, and American Academy of Family Physicians.

Those who qualify for the Vaccine for Children Program will not be billed. If a student has insurance, they must provide their insurance information since insurance will be billed. Parents must complete and submit to the school a signed consent form for their children to receive any vaccines at these clinics. Signed consent forms should be turned in to the children’s school prior to the clinic date. Without a signed consent form, children cannot receive any vaccinations.

“In-school vaccine clinics are one of the most convenient ways for children and parents to prepare for the next school year without having to take time away from your summer fun.” said Reisa Sloce, Director of the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts. “Vaccines offer effective protection for everyone in the community from serious illnesses such as polio, measles, whooping cough, influenza, meningitis, chickenpox and pneumonia.  School vaccines are crucial for protecting children from serious diseases, preventing outbreaks in schools, as well as ensuring a healthier and safer learning environment for everyone”.

If vaccinations are needed, pre-registration is required.  Please visit the following websites to register your child:  https://redcap.link/lenospring25

The location and dates of these in-school vaccine clinics are below.

  • City of Norton:
    • April 2: Norton Elem./Middle & JI Burton High
  • Wise County:
    • April 7: Coeburn Middle, St. Paul Elementary, & Eastside High
    • April 9: Union Middle, Union High, &Alternative Ed
    • April 11: JW Adams Combined, LF Addington Middle, & Central High
  • Lee County:
    • April 15: Elydale Elementary & Thomas Walker High
    • April 16: Pennington Middle & Jonesville Middle
    • April 21: Shoemaker Elementary & Gate City High
    • April 22: Lee High
  • Scott County:
    • April 24: Hiltons Elementary, Weber City Elementary, & Yuma Elementary
    • April 25: Ft. Blackmore Elementary, Rye Cove Intermediate, & Rye Cove High
    • April 28: Dungannon Intermediate, Twin Springs High, & Nickelsville Elementary

School required vaccines are also available at your local health department. For more information or to make an appointment, contact your local health department:

Lee: 276-346-2011
Scott: 276-386-1312
Wise/Norton: 276-328-8000

To see which vaccines are needed for various age groups, review the Virginia vaccination schedule here: VIRGINIA VACCINATION SCHEDULE

LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts Encourage Tetanus Vaccine Following Recent Floods

February 18, 2025
Media Contact: Daniel Hunsucker, PIO, daniel.hunsucker@vdh.virginia.gov

LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts Encourage Tetanus Vaccine Following Recent Floods

WISE, Va. – The LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts are offering free Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap) to those affected by the flooding, responding to emergency situations, or those assisting with the recovery. The health department reminds residents and first responders to ensure their tetanus vaccinations are up to date.

Tetanus, sometimes called “lockjaw,” can cause symptoms such as fever, jaw cramping, muscle spasms, and seizures. Tetanus bacteria is found naturally in soil. If you wade through flood water, you could encounter sharp objects and sustain an injury that allows the tetanus bacteria to enter your body. Although tetanus infection is rare, it can be very serious or even fatal.

The best way to prevent infection is to be vaccinated prior to exposure, which is why all adults should receive tetanus shots every 10 years. However, tetanus vaccination is still effective if given within 48 hours after an injury.

You may need a tetanus booster shot if:

  • It has been more than 10 years since your last tetanus vaccination.
  • You have a puncture wound and it has been more than five years since your last tetanus vaccination.
  • You have a wound that has come in contact with flood water, and it has been more than five years since your last tetanus vaccination.

If you’re not sure if you need a tetanus vaccine or want more information about the availability of vaccines, contact your primary care provider, your local health department, or visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/immunization/.

RHHD & RPS Collaborate to Provide In-School Immunization Clinics

February 4, 2025
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov  

RHHD & RPS Collaborate to Provide In-School Immunization Clinics 

RICHMOND, Va. — The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) and Richmond Public Schools (RPS) are partnering to offer in-school immunization clinics in February and March. RPS families with 6th and 11th graders are encouraged to sign the RPS-provided consent form and schedule an appointment so that their student can receive the required immunizations ahead of the traditional Back-to-School season. These clinics will offer the tetanus, diphtheria, & pertussis (Tdap) vaccine and the meningococcal conjugate (MenACWY) vaccine as well as provide information about where to get the vaccine for human papillomavirus (HPV). Please visit rvaschools.net/schools-office/health-services for more information. 

“Our school-based immunization clinics are essential to our commitment to student wellness at Richmond Public Schools,” said Chief Wellness Officer Renesha Parks. “In partnership with Richmond and Henrico Health Districts, we’re able to lower barriers to healthcare and minimize disruptions to the school day while offering families and students a convenient way to meet vaccine requirements.”  

“We are excited to continue our partnership with Richmond Public Schools, meeting students where they are and providing required school vaccinations,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Community Health Nurse Supervisor Virginia Slattum. “This partnership maximizes our ability to reach those who need the required vaccines while reducing disruptions to a child’s education.” 

Current 6th and 11th grade RPS students are invited to attend on-site immunization clinics. These events are for RPS students only. Families should reach out to their school nurse to schedule an appointment.  

Franklin Military Academy
Wednesday, Feb. 5
9:30 to 11:00 a.m. 

Richmond Community High
Wednesday, Feb. 5
11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 

Open High School
Wednesday, Feb. 5
1:30 to 3:00 p.m. 

Dogwood Middle School
Thursday, Feb. 6
10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

John Marshall High School
Wednesday, Feb. 12
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

Henderson Middle School
Thursday, Feb. 13
9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

 River City Middle School
Thursday, Feb. 20
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

Thomas Jefferson High School
Wednesday, Feb. 26
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

Albert Hill Middle School
Thursday, Feb. 27
9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

Lucille Brown Middle
Wednesday, March 5
10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

Richmond High School for The Arts
Thursday, March 6
10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

Richmond Success Academy
Wednesday, March 12
9:00 to 10:00 am. 

 MLK Middle School
Wednesday, March 12
10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

Boushall Middle School
Wednesday, March 19
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

Huguenot High School
Thursday, March 20
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

Armstrong High School
Wednesday, March 26
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

The following immunizations for 6th graders will be provided at these events:  

  • Tetanus, diphtheria, & pertussis (Tdap) vaccine 
    A booster dose is required starting at age 11 and before 7th–grade entry. 
  • Meningococcal conjugate (MenACWY) vaccine  

The first dose shall be administered starting at age 11 and before 7th–grade entry. 

The following immunizations for 11th graders will be provided at these events: 

  • Meningococcal conjugate (MenACWY) vaccine  

A dose is required starting at age 16 and before 12th-grade entry. 

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is also required for school but will not be provided at these events. Students can receive this vaccination from their pediatrician, a local pharmacy, or an RHHD clinic or community partner. 

  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine 

Two doses of HPV vaccine are required. The first dose shall be administered starting at age 11 and before 7th-grade entry. 

Immunization Opportunities for Families Whose Children Cannot Attend an In-School Event 

Families without health insurance or who are enrolled in Medicaid can visit  rhhd.gov/connect-pc to find pediatric care providers. Families can schedule appointments at an RHHD clinic by calling 804-205-3501. Families can find more information at rhhd.gov/childhoodvax.  

Virginia Vaccines for Children (VVFC) providers offer free immunizations to children (younger than 19 years of age) who are uninsured or underinsured; Medicaid-eligible or Medicaid-enrolled; and/or American Indian or Alaska Native. Families can search for a VVFC provider near them using rhhd.gov/vfc.  

Families with private insurance may schedule appointments with their child’s pediatrician, a local pharmacy, or one of RHHD’s community partners. 

Mount Rogers Health District Offers Free Tetanus and Hepatitis A Vaccines  

October 2, 2024
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, 276-781-7450

Mount Rogers Health District Offers Free Tetanus and Hepatitis A Vaccines

MARION, Va. – The Mount Rogers Health District is offering free Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap) and Hepatitis A vaccines to those adults 19 years and older affected by the flooding, responding to emergency situations, or those assisting with the recovery.

Tetanus, sometimes called “lockjaw,” can cause symptoms such as fever, jaw cramping, muscle spasms, and seizures. Tetanus bacteria is found naturally in soil. If you wade through flood water, you could encounter sharp objects and sustain an injury that allows the tetanus bacteria to enter your body. Although tetanus infection is rare, it can be very serious or even fatal.

The best way to prevent infection is to be vaccinated prior to exposure, which is why all adults should receive tetanus shots every 10 years. However, tetanus vaccination is still effective if given within 48 hours after an injury.

You may need a tetanus booster shot if:

  • It has been more than 10 years since your last tetanus vaccination.
  • You have a puncture wound and it has been more than five years since your last tetanus vaccination.
  • You have a wound that has come in contact with flood water, and it has been more than five years since your last tetanus vaccination.

Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). HAV infection usually causes a mild, short-term illness, is contagious, and spreads through close person-to-person contact and eating contaminated food or drink. Vaccination is the best way to prevent infection.

You may need a dose of hepatitis A vaccine if:

  • You are living, working, or preparing food in a shelter.
  • You are providing medical or personal care to displaced residents.
  • You are working in a jail, prison, detention center, or law enforcement capacity.
  • You are functioning as a first responder.

Hepatitis A immunization is not indicated for those engaged in clean-up or those exposed to flood waters. There is no increased risk of hepatitis A in sewer workers or those working in flood waters. If you have had the two-dose series of hepatitis A, no booster is needed.

Vaccines will be offered during the following dates and times:

Tetanus and Hepatitis A Vaccines

Wednesday, October 2 and Thursday, October 3 – 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Grayson Highlands School, 6459 Troutdale Highway, Troutdale

Mount Rogers Fire and Rescue Building, 51 Firehouse Road, Whitetop

Brookside Baptist Church, 5523 Sugar Grove Highway (Highway 16), Sugar Grove


Wednesday, October 2 and Thursday, October 3 – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Town Park, 202 South Beaver Dam Ave., Damascus


Thursday, October 3, Noon – 4:30 p.m. and Friday, October 4, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Bristol City Health Department, 341 Piedmont Ave., Bristol

Bland County Health Department, 209 Jackson St., Bland

Carroll County Health Department, 605 Pine St., Suite 15, Hillsville

Galax City Health Department, 502 S. Main St., Galax

Grayson County Health Department, 186 West Main St., Independence

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

Washington County Health Department, 15068 Lee Highway, Suite, 1000, Bristol

Wythe County Health Department, 290 S. 6th St., Suite 300, Wytheville

If you’re not sure if you need a tetanus or hepatitis A vaccine, contact your primary care provider or your local health department. For more information on immunization, visit: www.vdh.virginia.gov/immunization/.

LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts Offer Free Tdap Vaccines

October 1, 2024
Media Contact:
Daniel Hunsucker, LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts, 276-328-8000

LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts Offer Free Tdap Vaccines

WISE, Va. – The LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts are offering free Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap) vaccines to those affected by the flooding, responding to emergency situations, or those assisting with the recovery.

Tetanus, sometimes called “lockjaw,” can cause symptoms such as fever, jaw cramping, muscle spasms, and seizures. Tetanus bacteria is found naturally in soil. If you wade through flood water, you could encounter sharp objects and sustain an injury that allows the tetanus bacteria to enter your body. Although tetanus infection is rare, it can be very serious or even fatal.

The best way to prevent infection is to be vaccinated prior to exposure, which is why all adults should receive tetanus shots every 10 years. However, tetanus vaccination is still effective if given within 48 hours after an injury.

You may need a tetanus booster shot if:

  • It has been more than 10 years since your last tetanus vaccination.
  • You have a puncture wound and it has been more than five years since your last tetanus vaccination.
  • You have a wound that has come in contact with flood water, and it has been more than five years since your last tetanus vaccination.

If you’re not sure if you need a tetanus vaccine, contact your primary care provider or your local health department. For more information on immunization, visit: www.vdh.virginia.gov/immunization/.

The vaccines are available for free at all health departments in Cumberland Plateau (Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell) and in LENOWISCO (Lee, Scott, Wise) during regular business hours, Monday-Friday.

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