Category: pr

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 19, 2026
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov  

RHHD Encourages Parents and Guardians to Schedule Primary Care Appointments for Children Before Summer 

RICHMOND, Va. — The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage families to schedule a wellness visit for children with their primary care provider before the summer months. These visits allow children to receive school-required immunizations and physicals before summer travel and activities.  

Vaccines provide essential protection against serious diseases that can affect children. As of March 19, 2026, Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has already reported 14 cases of measles. VDH reported five cases of measles in all of 2025. A safe and effective vaccine that prevents measles is given as part of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine or the measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine series. 

Families can schedule appointments with a primary care physician or one of RHHD’s community partners. RHHD provides resources for families on Medicaid, Medicare, or who are uninsured at rhhd.gov/connect-pc. Please visit RHHD’s School Health Hub, Richmond Public Schools, or Henrico County Public Schools for more information. 

“Spring is a great time for your child to see their primary care provider for a wellness visit,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “A primary care provider will make sure your child gets the immunizations and physicals they need for school and sports. Taking care of these important visits now means kids will have more time for summer fun and will be ready for school in the fall.” 

School-Required Immunizations 

The Code of Virginia requires children entering daycare, public and private schools to give proof of vaccination before enrollment. The Code of Virginia also requires specific vaccinations for rising seventh and 12th graders. According to data from VDH, vaccination rates for Richmond City and Henrico County 13-year-olds are lower than Virginia statewide rates for the following vaccines: 

• meningococcal ACWY (MenACWY),  

• human papillomavirus (HPV) 

• tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) 

The Virginia childhood vaccine schedule aligns with the schedules of the American Academy of Pediatrics (APP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). All vaccines on these schedules are covered by Medicaid and private health insurance. 

The Virginia Vaccines for Children Program (VVFC) provides free or low-cost vaccines for uninsured, underinsured, and Medicaid-enrolled children. Families can search for a nearby VFC at rhhd.gov/vfc. 

Families with private insurance may schedule appointments with their primary care physician, a local pharmacy, or one of RHHD’s community partners. Families can learn more by visiting rhhd.gov/childhoodvax-partners. 

Families without insurance or who are enrolled in Medicaid can schedule appointments at an RHHD clinic by calling 804-205-3500 and can find more information at rhhd.gov/childhoodvax. Students must bring a guardian, a copy of immunization records, and an insurance card if they have one. 

School Physicals 

The Code of Virginia requires children to have a school physical before starting public kindergarten or enrolling in elementary school for the first time. During a physical, a doctor can: 

• Identify potential health issues that could impact kids’ learning  

• Ensure kids have the immunizations they need 

• Promote healthy habits 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook.   

# # # 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 9, 2026
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov  

RHHD Encourages Severe Weather Awareness 

March 9 – 13 is Severe Weather Awareness Week 

RICHMOND, Va. — Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage residents to protect themselves and their families by making preparations for severe weather. March and April are traditionally the most active months for tornadoes in Virginia. Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 9 – 13. 

“Severe weather can happen with little to no warning, said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Acting Local Health Emergency Coordinator Alyssa Lewis. “While we can’t control the weather, we can control how prepared we are! It’s never too late to make sure you, your family, friends, and neighbors are signed up for trusted community alerts, have an emergency plan, and have well-stocked emergency kits. Taking a little time now to prepare can give us peace of mind year-round!” 

RHHD recommends the following tips for preparing for severe weather: 

• Locate safe shelters in the places you spend the most time. In each location, find a small room or hallway with no windows, preferably in a basement or first floor. Once you’ve identified your shelter, communicate that plan with family members or coworkers so everyone knows where to go when a tornado warning sounds.  

• Choose a reliable news source and stay up to date on the weather. 

• Consider participating in Virginia’s statewide tornado drill March 10 at 9:45 a.m.  

• Register for an in-person or online SKYWARN class to learn how to spot and report dangerous storm systems. 

RHHD recommends the following tips for staying prepared for emergency situations: 

• Store important family documents, such as copies of insurance policies, identification documents, and bank account records, in a waterproof, portable container or save them electronically. 

• Keep medications in a central location for easy evacuation if needed. 

• Prepare a “go-bag” with clothes, toys and toiletries for five days. 

• Know, and practice, your safe spaces and exits. 

• Identify friends, neighbors, and relatives who might need extra help during an emergency, including older adults, people with disabilities, and those without transportation. Create a phone tree or contact strategy to check in on them. 

• Choose a central spot to reunite with your family if separated. 

• Richmond residents should sign up for Richmond Ready Alerts. Henrico County residents should sign up for Henrico County Community Emergency Notifications. 

• Update your insurance yearly and consider flood insurance. Most insurance companies do NOT pay for flooding damage through a standard homeowner’s policy. 

Visit ready.gov for more emergency preparedness tips. Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook.   

# # # 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 6, 2026
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov  

RHHD Highlights Women’s Health Services for International Women’s Day 

RICHMOND, Va. — Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) commemorate International Women’s Day on March 8 by highlighting services for women offered at RHHD clinics, offices, and Resource Centers. 

“When women are healthy, our communities are stronger,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Population Health Manager Tamara Jones-Groves. “International Women’s Day reminds us of the importance of making sure women have access to the care and resources they need at every stage of life.” 

RHHD offers the following programs and services that focus on women’s health: 

Improving access to maternal health 

• The Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)  provides nutrition education and healthy foods to improve pregnancy outcomes and enable families to make lifelong healthy eating and lifestyle choices. On average, 8,781 people per month received WIC services across RHHD’s multiple WIC locations. 

• The Maternity Navigation team supports expectant parents with pregnancy confirmation, care connection, benefits enrollment, and materials distribution. The Maternity Navigation team served 285 clients in 2025. 

Increasing awareness about chronic disease management 

• As part of the VDH Healthy Hearts Initiative, RHHD Cardiovascular Health Community Health Workers support community members with hypertensive conditions by providing: 

• Connections to primary care providers 

• Nutrition and exercise education 

• Blood pressure monitoring  

• Gender inequality impacts heart attack fatalities, highlighting the importance of awareness, prevention, and early disease management 

Expanding access to healthcare 

• RHHD clinical services accept Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance. RHHD also participates in Virginia Vaccines for Children and Virginia Vaccines for Adults, providing free immunizations to children and adults who are uninsured or underinsured.  

• RHHD connects women to primary care providers that focus on women’s health.
  RHHD Resource Centers offer a variety of clinical and community health services in Richmond’s public housing communities. All services are available to anyone, and cost is based on a sliding scale. 

Ensuring women have control over reproductive health 

• RHHD offers Family Planning and STI clinical services at its Cary Street , Henrico East,and Henrico West clinics, as well as Mosby Resource Center. All services are offered on a sliding scale based on financial availability. Family Planning visits offer the following services: 

• Gynecological check-ups for women desiring birth control 

• Breast self-exam instruction 

• Pap smears and screening tests for sexually transmitted infections 

• Birth control methods & counseling 

• RHHD also offers HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) services at its Henrico East Clinic and Cary Street Clinic. PrEP is a medication that reduces a person’s chances of getting human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Virginia residents can contact the RHHD PrEP team at 804-482-5493. 

• National Women and Girls HIV Awareness Day is March 10. 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook. 

# # # 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 26, 2026
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov

Real Love Respects

RHHD Highlights Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

RICHMOND, Va. – February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Richmond and Henrico Health Districts remind teens and the community what love is. Love should feel safe and supportive, not controlling or frightening.

Teen dating violence is more common than many might realize. In the U.S., 1 in 10 teens experienced some form of dating violence. It can happen in person, online, or through text messages. Experiencing relationship violence during adolescence is linked to higher risk of depression, anxiety, substance use, and future relationship violence.

“Healthy relationships are a key part of overall health and well-being, especially for young people,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Population Health Manager, Tamara Jones-Groves. “When teens can recognize the difference between caring and controlling behaviors, they are better prepared to build safe relationships, protect their mental health, and seek help when something doesn’t feel right.”

Dating violence can include:

• Psychological and Emotional Abuse: Using words or behaviors to control their partner, destroy the partner’s self-confidence or esteem, or keep them away from other people.
• Physical Abuse: Hitting, shoving or intentionally injuring a partner.
• Sexual Abuse: Pressuring or forcing another person to have sex, including when the partner is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Stalking: Repeated unwanted attention.

Unhealthy relationships can have long-term effects on physical and mental health. They thrive in isolation. It’s important for teens to maintain relationships with friends and family while dating. Parents and mentors should talk with teens about relationships and create an environment where they can be honest without the fear of judgement or getting in trouble.

Understand the difference between caring and controlling

According to Nisa Foundation, a caring healthy partner respects and values their significant other’s independence and individuality. They understand the importance of maintaining separate identities and encourage their partner to pursue their own interests and relationships outside of the partnership.

A controlling partner’s behavior often aims to lessen their own anxiety by eliminating uncertainty or doubt in the relationship. Past trauma may contribute to the need for control. Control may take the form of criticism, threats, humiliation, and isolation. To maintain perceived control, individuals may blame others or manipulate events.

Controlling behavior may make someone feel like they have no autonomy or independence. Over time, this can lead to feelings of suffocation, loss of self-esteem, and decreased confidence in their abilities and decisions.

Parents, schools, and communities play an important role in modeling and promoting healthy, supportive relationships. Support can include sharing posts on social media, talking with teens about healthy relationships, and supporting survivors without judgment.

Understand the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships

Learning the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships helps young people make safer dating choices.

Healthy relationships

• Respecting each other’s feelings and boundaries
• Honesty
• Equality
• Both people consent or agree freely
• Support for individual growth
• Feeling safe
• Willingness to work through conflicts

Unhealthy relationships

• Lack of respect for each other’s feelings and boundaries
• Checking your phone
• Controlling who you can be friends with
• Excessive texts or calls
• Explosive temper
• Threatening or causing physical violence
• Pressuring a partner into unwanted sexual activity

Other ways to help

No one is alone.  If someone is experiencing dating violence, call 911 or reach out to one of the resources listed below.

• YWCA Help Line (call or text)
  • 804-612-6126
• Action Alliance
• 1-800-838-8238 (Talk)
• 804-793-9999 (Text)
• Virginia Family Violence & Sexual Assault Hotline
  • 1-800-838-8238
• Love Is Respect

Leaving an unhealthy relationship can be hard, but safety and mental health matters.

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook.

# # #

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs.

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 13, 2026
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov 

 

Love Safely This Valentine’s Day 

Get Free Condoms from Richmond and Henrico Health Districts 

 

RICHMOND, Va.– It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day is also National Condom Day! One of the simplest ways to show you care is to protect the health of those you love. Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) provide free condoms to support safer and healthier sexual relationships. 

Valentine’s Day is often associated with flowers, chocolates, and dinner dates. RHHD reminds you that protection should also be part of the plan. 

“Using a condom is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your sexual health,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “When used correctly, condoms are highly effective at preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as syphilis and HIV. Add condoms to your list when you are picking up flowers and chocolates. Let romance include protecting your sexual health and your partner’s!” 

Virginia STI Data 

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) remain a serious public health concern in Virginia.  More than 54,000 STIs were reported in Virginia in 2024. The increase in syphilis diagnoses among women is of particular concern. The rate of newly diagnosed syphilis cases among women increased 144% from 2020 to 2024. For the same time period, newly diagnosed syphilis cases among all genders increased 117% in Richmond City and 65% in Henrico County. 

Cases of congenital syphilis, when a pregnant person passes syphilis to a baby during pregnancy or childbirth, increased for the fifth straight year in Virginia. In 2024, 35 cases of congenital syphilis were reported among newly born infants, the highest case count observed in more than 30 years in Virginia. 

Where to find free condoms 

Because many STIs, including syphilis, often show no symptoms, you can spread them without knowing it. Using condoms consistently and correctly is an effective way to reduce the risk of STIs and unintended pregnancy. 

The Virginia Department of Health distributes condoms statewide through its Condom Distribution Program, which is designed to reduce HIV and other STIs through free access to protection. 

Free condoms are available at RHHD and through community partner organizations. Call 804-205-3500 to locate free condoms nearby. 

Organizations interested in becoming distribution sites should contact the HIV-STD Hotline Supervisor at HIV-stdhotline@vdh.virginia.gov. Participating organizations may order up to 100,000 condoms per year. 

RHHD can also help you decide if medicine to prevent HIV (PrEP) or STIs (DoxyPEP) is right for you. Call 804-664-2125 to get started. 

Make this Valentine’s Day a night to remember, not a diagnosis you want to forget. 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook. 

 

# # # 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 5, 2026
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov 

 

RHHD Commemorates National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day Feb. 7 

 

RICHMOND, Va. —Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) commemorate National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on Wednesday, Feb. 7, by encouraging Black and African American community members in Richmond City and Henrico County to get tested and seek treatment. This day creates the opportunity for healthcare providers and policy makers to reflect on the ways racism, discrimination, and mistrust in the health care system may affect those seeking and receiving HIV prevention and treatment services. 

National, state, and regional HIV/AIDS data 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2022, Black/African American persons made up approximately 12% of the population of the United States but accounted for 37% (11,900) of the estimated 31,800 new HIV infections.    

Virginia Department of Health (VDH) data from 2023 show that Richmond City (26.5) and Henrico County (14.7) both had higher rates of new HIV diagnoses per 100,000 people (by health district) than Virginia as a whole (10). In the Central Region, which includes Richmond and Henrico, there were nearly twice as many Black people living with HIV than all other races and ethnicities combined. 

“We are several decades removed from the hardest days of the HIV epidemic in the United States, but the stigma around HIV still persists,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “Through education and ensuring access to preventive care and screening, we can continue the great progress that public health has made in reducing the effects of HIV on Black communities.” 

RHHD HIV/STI services 

RHHD offers clinic-based sexually transmitted infection (STI) and HIV testing appointments at its Cary Street, Henrico East, and Henrico West clinics. Visit rhhd.gov/sti for information and to view testing appointment options. Use rhhd.gov/VA-HIV-testing to search for Virginia-based HIV testing options near you.  

RHHD also offers pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). PrEP is a daily medication that is highly effective at helping prevent HIV. To learn more about PrEP, call 804-482-5493. 

People living with HIV needing support from the Virginia Medication Assistance Program (VAMAP) can call 855-362-0658. 

Community Partner Testing Options 

The following RHHD community partners offer free STI and HIV testing services:  

• Nationz Foundation: 804-716-7597 

• Minority Health Consortium: 804-225-0820 

• Health Brigade: 804-358-6343 (ext. 2145) 

• VCU Ryan White Program: 804-828-0289 

Use the CDC testing site locator to find a testing site near you. 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook. 

# # #

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 2, 2026
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov 
 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Encourage Community Members to Prioritize Heart Health 

February is American Heart Month 

 

RICHMOND, Va. – In honor of American Heart Month, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage you to take action to prioritize heart health. 

“Heart health continues to be one of the top areas of health focus in our community,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Community Health Nurse Supervisor Virginia Slattum. “Our 2024 Community Health Assessment showed that Richmond and Henrico residents and community partners see chronic disease as a top health priority. We look forward to continuing this collaboration to support heart health in the region. We encourage folks to promote their own heart health by quitting smoking, getting regular physical exercise, and eating heart-healthy foods.”  

Heart disease data 

Virginia Department of Health (VDH) chronic disease data from 2023 show that Richmond City and Henrico County had hospitalization and death rates for cardiovascular disease higher than statewide rates. According to CDC data from 2023, heart disease was the leading cause of death in Virginia, Richmond City, and Henrico County.  

RHHD offers the following tips for choosing heart-healthy foods and activities: 

• Check your blood pressure. Read more about ways to prevent and manage high blood pressure. Here are some helpful tips for talking with a doctor to manage and check your blood pressure. You can also measure and track your blood pressure at home. 

• Take steps to quit smoking by contacting RHHD’s Free From Tobacco program on the web or by calling 804-482-8018. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) offers Quit Now Virginia, which includes free telephone or web-based counseling services, Text2Quit support, self-help materials, and referrals to local resources. Call 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669) or learn more at the Quit Now Virginia Website. 

• Choose healthy meals and snacks. Include plenty of fruit and vegetables in your diet and choose foods lower in sodium and saturated fat. Try heart-healthy recipes from the American Heart Association. 

• Make physical activity a regular part of your day. Adults should get at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. This type of exercise could be a brisk walk, running, or bicycling. Learn more about ways to increase your physical activity throughout the day. 

• Get vaccinated. Flu, RSV, and pneumococcal vaccines have been linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular and cardiorespiratory events in older adults. Adults over 65 and people with chronic conditions are particularly susceptible to severe complications from these illnesses. According to the American Heart Association, nearly half American adults live with some type of cardiovascular disease and are more likely to experience severe illness that may result in hospitalization or death.
   

Healthy Hearts Initiative 

As part of the VDH Healthy Hearts Initiative, RHHD Cardiovascular Health Community Health Workers support community members with hypertensive conditions by providing: 

• Connections to primary care providers 

• Nutrition and exercise education 

• Blood pressure monitoring 

Community members can visit rhhd.gov/connect-pc to find local primary care providers. Community members can visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook. 

# # # 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 22, 2026
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov 
 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Urges the Community to Prepare for Incoming Winter Storm 

RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond City and Henrico County are expected to be impacted by severe winter weather, including snow, ice, and extremely cold temperatures. Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) urge you to prepare now to keep yourself, your family and your pets safe, warm and healthy during this storm. 

“We have all experienced how disruptive winter weather can be to our daily lives,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “Take time now to make sure your home, family, friends, and neighbors are ready for this winter storm. Prepare for the storm by organizing your emergency kits and medicines, insulating your home, and staying up to date on weather reports. During the storm, stay indoors as much as possible, ventilate emergency heat sources and check on friends and family. Let’s take care of ourselves and each other as winter weather affects our communities.” 

Before the Storm 

• Make sure you have an emergency supply kit on hand and keep an emergency kit for your car. 

• Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, home-use medical devices, and vitamins. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines. 

• Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.  

• Replenish fuel for your car and heating sources. 

• Weatherproof your home by insulating exposed pipes and caulking and weather strip doors/windows. 

• Make sure you understand the warnings, watches and advisories and have multiple ways to receive alerts. 

• Write down the contact information and directions to your local Inclement Weather Shelter or warming center. Call 804-646-3111 or email homeless@rva.gov for more information. 

• • City of Richmond Inclement Weather Shelter (IWS)
    1900 Chamberlayne Parkway
    Richmond, VA, 23222
    Open 5 p.m.-8 a.m.  

• • The shelter may remain open after 8 a.m. when temperatures are less than or equal to 40°F, or when more than one inch of freezing rain or snow has fallen in 24-hours.  

• Richmond Public Library branches serve as warming spaces during normal operating hours. 

• Henrico County libraries and recreation centers are open to the public during normal operating hours. 

During/After the Storm 

• Bring your pets indoors and ensure they have water. 

• Stay indoors and limit your exposure to the cold. 

• Properly ventilate emergency heat sources. 

• Keep generators outside at least 20 feet from your home. 

• Check on neighbors and family. 

If you must go outside, take the following precautions to stay safe and prevent frostbite and hypothermia: 

• Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps. 

• Dress warmly and in layers. Make sure you cover your head, fingers and toes. 

• Avoid getting wet and change out of wet clothes as soon as possible. 

• Stay hydrated. Drink warm beverages. 

• Take frequent breaks if shoveling snow or working outdoors. 

• Stay off the roads. If you must travel, check the road conditions and your route first. Allow extra time and follow these tips from the Virginia Department of Transportation. 

RHHD wants you to stay safe, warm and healthy! Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook. 

# # # 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 20, 2026

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

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Encourage Vaccination and Screening to Protect Against Cervical Cancer 

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month
 

RICHMOND, Va. – In honor of Cervical Health Awareness Month, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage community members to take action against cervical cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), human papilloma virus (HPV) causes more than nine out of every 10 cases of cervical cancer. Almost all cervical cancer can be prevented by HPV vaccination. 

• Parents and guardians should make sure their children have their school-required HPV vaccination prior to starting 7th grade. 
• Parents and guardians can make appointments for school-required immunizations with their primary care provider, a local pharmacy, or at an in-school clinic. 
• Women ages 21 and older should talk to their doctor about cervical cancer screening. 
• The United States Department of Health and Human Services recently approved a self-administered test for cervical cancer for women aged 30-65 years at average risk. This test can be completed at home or at a doctor’s office. Insurance plans will be required to cover the full cost of self-collected HPV screenings by Jan. 1, 2027, with no cost to consumers.  

“Making sure children get the HPV vaccine can help reduce their risk of developing cervical and other cancers,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “We encourage our community to protect their health and the health of their children through vaccination and regular screenings for cervical and other cancers.” 

HPV Vaccination 

According to a recent systematic review published in the Cochrane Library, the HPV vaccination: 

• reduces the incidence of cervical cancer by around 80% in people vaccinated at or before age of 16; 
• reduces the incidence of high‐grade cervical pre‐cancer lesions, as well as anogenital warts; 
• is not associated with an increased risk of long‐term side effects or infertility; 
• is more effective when given at or before the age of 16 years, before onset of sexual activity. 

In November 2024, The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) published a research letter stating that studies from 2022 and 2023 indicated a 12 percent per year decline (overall, 65 percent reduction) in cervical cancer incidence from 2012 to 2019 among US women younger than 25 years who likely benefited from HPV vaccination. 

A new nationwide cohort study from Sweden suggests that widespread HPV vaccination could substantially reduce the risk of precancerous lesions even among people who never received the vaccine.  

HPV vaccination has been recommended for routine use in U.S. women since June 2006.  

• In Virginia, the HPV vaccine is required for all students, regardless of sex, prior to entry into 7th grade. 
• Children who receive both doses of the vaccine before age 13 will receive the most protection. 
• Children who receive their first dose at the age of 15 or older will require three doses to complete the series.  
• The HPV vaccine is also recommended for people 26 years of age who did not start or complete the vaccination at an earlier age. 
• HPV vaccine recommendation for persons 27-45 years of age is based on shared clinical decision making. 

According to data from VDH, as of Jan. 13, 2026, 74.1 percent of 13-year-olds in Richmond City and 73.3 percent of 13-year-olds in Henrico County have received at least one dose of the HPV vaccine series. Statewide, 76 percent of 13-year-olds have received least one dose of the HPV vaccine series. 

As of Jan. 13, 2026, 47.4 percent of 18-year-olds in Richmond City and 70.4 percent of 18-year-olds in Henrico County have received the complete HPV vaccine series. Statewide, 62.7 percent of 18-year-olds have received the complete HPV vaccine series. 

HPV and Cervical Cancer Data 

According to data from CDC, HPV causes six different kinds of cancer, including almost all (91 percent) of cervical cancers. HPV also causes 70 percent of head and neck (oropharyngeal) cancers. 

According to the National Cancer Institute’s State Cancer Profile, the rate of new cases of cervical cancer in Virginia has been decreasing steadily from 2017 to 2021. The rates of new cases in Richmond and Henrico were somewhat lower than the rate in Virginia during the same time period. 

Screening and Care for Cervical Cancer 

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) offers Every Woman’s Life (EWL), a public health program that helps uninsured, income-eligible women gain access to free breast and cervical cancer screening services. Screening and early detection reduce death rates, improve treatment options, and greatly increase rates of survival. If a woman enrolled in EWL is diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer she may be eligible for Medicaid to pay for treatment. Community members can use this link to find a EWL provider near them. 

To be eligible for EWL, a woman must be a Virginia resident between the ages of 18-64, meet federal income guidelines and be uninsured. Women 18-39 must be symptomatic or be determined to be high risk for breast and/or cervical cancer to be eligible.  

Visit rhhd.gov/connect-pc to locate primary care providers in the Richmond and Henrico area. Visit rhhd.gov/childhoodvax for more information on school-required immunizations. For information about RHHD’s clinical health resources and HPV vaccination schedule, call 804-205-3500 or visit rhhd.gov. 

Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook. 

 

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Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 5, 2026
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov
 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Encourage Community Members to Test Their Homes for Radon 

January is National Radon Action Month 

RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage community members to protect their health by testing their homes for radon. January is National Radon Action Month.  

Radon is a naturally occurring, colorless, odorless gas resulting from Uranium decay found in certain types of soil and bedrock. Indoor radon exposure is considered to be the second leading cause of lung cancer, and the leading cause of lung cancer among people who have never smoked. Radon exposure may contribute to 21,000 cases of lung cancer each year in the United States, including almost 700 cases per year in Virginia. 

“Radon testing can help you protect your health and the health of your family members,” said Virginia Department of Health Office of Radiological Health Director Matthew Ettinger. “High radon test results have been found in every county in Virginia, and risk can vary widely from home to home.” 

Radon Risk Areas 

Data from Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Radon Program show that Virginia has 42 counties and six cities classified as high risk, with average radon test results of greater than 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). Virginia also has 31 counties and eight cities classified as moderate risk (average radon test results of 2 to 4 pCi/L). 

Richmond City and Henrico County are both classified as moderate radon risk areas, with average indoor radon levels of 2.8 pCi/L in Richmond and 3.1 pCi/L in Henrico County. While these averages are below the EPA action level of 4 pCi/L, some homes have much higher levels of radon. The only way to determine radon risk is to test homes, workplaces, and other indoor areas. Please visit vdh.virginia.gov/radiological-health/indoor-radon-program/testing/ for more information on radon testing and mitigation. 

Community members with confirmed test results between 2 and 4 pCi/L of radon should consider installing a mitigation system. A mitigation system should be installed in a home where the test result is 4 pCi/L or higher. This system can usually be installed in one day and consists of PVC piping connected to a fan which runs constantly to draw out the radon gas from beneath the home and vent it outside and away from anyone’s potential breathing space. Please visit the National Radon Safety Board and the National Radon Proficiency Program to find professional, certified radon mitigators and testers in Virginia. 

Three Things You Should Do During National Radon Action Month 

• Test your home.  

• • Learn more about testing your home, including how to obtain an easy-to-use test kit.  

• • EPA and the U.S. Surgeon General recommend that all homes in the U.S. be tested for radon. Testing is easy and inexpensive.  

• • Learn more about when to test your home for radon. 

• Encourage others to learn about radon and to test their homes. 

• • Tell your family and friends about the health risk of radon. Encourage them to test their homes. 

• • View EPA’s free radon publications. 

• Learn about buying or building a radon-resistant home.  

• • Read “Building Radon Out: A Step-by-Step Guide to Build Radon-Resistant Homes” (PDF). 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook. 

# # # 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd