Tag: vaccines

Free Adult Vaccines Now Available for Wythe and Bland County Residents

October 16, 2025
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, brianne.kilbourne@vdh.virginia.gov

Free Adult Vaccines Now Available for Wythe and Bland County Residents

WYTHEVILLE, Va. – Thanks to the generous support of the Wythe Bland Foundation, adults living in Wythe and Bland Counties can now receive flu, high-dose flu, COVID-19, and other essential vaccines with no out-of-pocket cost at the Wythe and Bland County Health Departments. This initiative removes financial barriers to preventive care. Insurance will be billed when available, but no adult will be turned away, ensuring access to vital protection for all eligible community members.

“Preventive care is one of the most powerful tools we have to protect community health,” said Dr. Meagan Helmick, Health Director. “We’re incredibly grateful to the Wythe Bland Foundation for their partnership in making these vaccines accessible to every adult in Wythe and Bland Counties. Their support helps us turn public health priorities into real, meaningful impact for our communities.”

What You Need to Know:

Who’s Eligible?

  • All adults living in Wythe and Bland Counties

What’s Offered?

  • Flu, high-dose flu, COVID-19, and other routine vaccines

Where?

  • Bland County Health Department – 209 Jackson Street, Bland, VA 24315
  • Wythe County Health Department – 290 S. 6th Street, Suite 300, Wytheville, VA 24382

How to Schedule?

  • Call 276-228-5507 or 276-688-3642
  • Spanish Language Line: 276-238-6105

Our team is here to make getting vaccinated easy. We’ll answer your questions and help you stay protected, for yourself and those around you.  Call today!

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 Galax City, Carroll County, and Grayson County

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

Mount Rogers Health District Announces Upcoming School Vaccination Clinics

GALAX, Va. – As the 2025-2026 school year approaches, the Galax City, Carroll County, and Grayson 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 Galax City, Grayson County, and Carroll County Health Departments will host vaccination clinics on the following dates and locations:

Galax High School, 200 Maroon Tide Dr., Galax

  • August 14, 2:30 – 5:30 p.m.,
    (Registration REQUIRED. Register here: Middle | High)

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

  • August 12, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Carroll County Health Department – 605-15 Pine St., Hillsville

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

Grayson County Health Department – 186 W. Main St., Independence

  • August 11, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • August 12, 9 a.m. – 5:30 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 Galax City Health Department at (276) 236-6127, the Carroll County Health Department at (276) 730-3180, or the Grayson County Health Department at (276) 773-2961.

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.

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

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

WISE, Va. – Setting your kids up for success this school year means making sure they have all the tools they need, including vaccines to protect against preventable diseases such as meningitis, measles, pertussis (whooping cough) and others. Lee, Scott, and Wise County/Norton City health departments are making it easy to get these required immunizations at a clinic during the month of August. School and sports physicals appointments are also available.

Virginia schools require immunizations for entry into kindergarten, seventh grade, and 12th grade.

Keeping children up to date on vaccinations can reduce severe illnesses, and unnecessary absences from school and work saving your family time and money.

“Vaccines are an important tool for keeping our children and communities healthy. School required vaccines are available at all our local health departments. Adolescent school required vaccines for rising 7th graders and rising 12th graders will also be available at orientation events next week at Union Middle School, LF Addington Middle School and Coeburn Middle School,” said Reisa Sloce, Director of the LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts.

Vaccines are safe and effective and are your child’s best defense against infectious disease. Measles is a recent example. The highly contagious disease that was declared eliminated in the year 2000 is experiencing a surge in the U.S. with more than 1,200 cases reported so far this year, including three cases in Virginia.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) encourages parents to talk with their child’s health care provider about recommended vaccinations. Vaccines are available through your pediatrician, pharmacies, and all local health departments. You will want to check in advance to see if appointments may be necessary.

Lee, Scott and Wise County/Norton City Health Departments offer school-required immunizations free of charge by appointment during regular clinic hours Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Please be sure to bring a copy of your child’s vaccination record. If you don’t have it, you can request the record here. If you have health insurance, please also bring your insurance card. Children who are uninsured can still be vaccinated at low or no cost through the Virginia Vaccines for Children (VVFC) program which offers free vaccines to eligible children.

For more information, please contact your local health department: Lee County: 276-346- 2011, Scott County: 276-386-1312, or Wise County/Norton City: 276-328-8000.

Cumberland Plateau Health District Wants to Make Sure Your Child is Ready for School

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

Cumberland Plateau Health District Wants to Make Sure
Your Child is Ready for School
 Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell Health Departments
Holding Vaccination Clinics

LEBANON, VA. – Setting your kids up for success this school year means making sure they have all the tools they need, including vaccines to protect against preventable diseases such as meningitis, measles, pertussis (whooping cough) and others. Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell health departments are making it easy to get these required immunizations at a clinic held this month. School and sports physicals appointments are also available.

Virginia schools require immunizations for entry into kindergarten, seventh grade, and 12th grade.

Keeping children up to date on vaccinations can reduce severe illnesses, and unnecessary absences from school and work saving your family time and money.

“Vaccines are an important tool for keeping our children and communities healthy. School required vaccines are available at all our local health departments. Adolescent school required vaccines for rising 7th graders and rising 12th graders will also be available at the Dickenson County Back to School Bash on August 1,” said Reisa Sloce, LENOWISCO and Cumberland Plateau Health Districts director.

Vaccines are safe and effective and are your child’s best defense against infectious disease. Measles is a recent example. The highly contagious disease that was declared eliminated in the year 2000 is experiencing a surge in the U.S. with more than 1,200 cases reported so far this year, including three cases in Virginia.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) encourages parents to talk with their child’s health care provider about recommended vaccinations. Vaccines are available through your pediatrician, pharmacies, and all local health departments. You will want to check in advance to see if appointments may be necessary.

Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell health departments offer school-required immunizations free of charge by appointment during regular clinic hours Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Please be sure to bring a copy of your child’s vaccination record. If you don’t have it, you can request the record here. If you have health insurance, please also bring your insurance card. Children who are uninsured can still be vaccinated at low or no cost through the Virginia Vaccines for Children (VVFC) program which offers free vaccines to eligible children.

For more information, please contact your local health department: Buchanan County: 276-935-4591, Dickenson County: 276-926-4979, Russell County: 276-889-7621, or Tazewell County: 276-988-5585.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Families can expect:

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

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

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

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

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

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Norfolk Health Department to Host Free Public Conversation on Vaccine Science with Director Dr. Susan Girois

May 12, 2025
Media Contact: Kathy Lamm
Kathy.Lamm@vdh.virginia.gov
Phone: (757) 236-0529

Norfolk Health Department to Host Free Public Conversation on Vaccine Science with Director Dr. Susan Girois

NORFOLK, Va. – The Norfolk Health Department invites the public to an engaging and informative community conversation, “Public Health Science Explained: Vaccines,” led by the department’s Director, Dr. Susan Girois (Dr. “G”). This free event aims to demystify the science behind vaccines, address common concerns, and foster an open dialogue.

In an era of widespread information, personal anecdotes, and debates surrounding vaccines, Dr. “G” will utilize historical data, public health trends, and modern scientific principles to provide clarity on this crucial topic. The session will create a welcoming space for questions, thoughts, and experiences from attendees.

Attendees can expect to explore:

  • The processes involved in vaccine development and rigorous testing.
  • The vital role of placebo-controlled trials in ensuring vaccine safety and efficacy.
  • The science behind mRNA vaccines and the advancements this technology offers.
  • A discussion addressing the historical concerns surrounding the MMR vaccine and autism.
  • An open forum to discuss any other vaccine-related questions and topics raised by the audience.

This event is designed for the “vaccine-curious,” community members, and influencers seeking a deeper understanding of vaccine science. Casual attire is encouraged, and light refreshments will be provided.

Event Details:

The Norfolk Health Department encourages community members to come curious and leave informed.

For more information on vaccines and other public health topics, visit NorfolkPublicHealth.com

# # #

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