Category: pr

RICHMOND, VA — The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) celebrate National Public Health Week April 1 – 7. National Public Health Week gives staff and residents the opportunity to reflect on the life-saving and enriching work that public health professionals do to serve Richmond and Henrico residents and help them thrive. 

“The heart of public health is our public health workforce,” says RHHD Director Dr. Elaine Perry. “It’s wonderful to take time each year to recognize the amazing work they do to support our communities. This is a week for celebration and gratitude.”  

RHHD has accomplished the following in service of its mission to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs: 

• Collaborated with Richmond Public Schools and Henrico County Public Schools nurses to distribute of 945 doses of school-required immunizations for 714 middle and high school aged children at 27 in-school events, spring 2024 to date. 
• Announced, through the Richmond and Henrico Public Health Foundation, $351,000 in new funding on Jan. 22, 2024, for community partners addressing social determinants of health including substance use disorder, maternal child health, and mental and behavioral health. 
• Provided Community Health Workers at 409 local Outreach and Community Events in 2023. 
• Completed 5018 food service inspections throughout Richmond and Henrico in 2023. 
• Completed 73 Healthy Homes Assessments and 119 Healthy Homes phone education and consultations in 2023. 
• Distributed 1240 boxes of Narcan (each containing two doses of the opioid overdose reversal medication) at community events and encounters and 43 boxes at Resource Centers in 2023.
   

For more information on how RHHD is celebrating National Public Health Week, look for daily updates on social media and on Well Read, the RHHD blog, at rhhd.gov/blog. 

 

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.us/health | RCHD Facebook | HCHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

RICHMOND, VA — The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) celebrate distribution of 945 doses of school-required immunizations for 714 middle and high school aged children at 27 events in Richmond and Henrico public schools. RHHD began its Spring 2024 immunizations effort in February and will support more events into the late spring and summer. Students received vaccinations for Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) and Meningitis (MenACWY). RHHD nurses coordinated with and provided support to Richmond and Henrico public school nursing staff for these in-school events. 

“We’ve really hit the ground running this spring,” said Ashley Lancaster, RHHD Public Health Nurse Supervisor. “We’ve gotten an earlier start this year, which means more students will be ready for the 2024-2025 school year on day one. We are thrilled to continue our partnership with RPS and HCPS school nurses and school administration, ensuring that students receive these important vaccines.” 

“RPS is excited to get every family ready for the first day of school, and to expand our wraparound support as a means to eliminate barriers,” said RPS Chief Wellness Officer, Renesha Parks. “We’re grateful for the RHHD’s partnership in making this happen and all of the RPS nurses and support staff who remain committed to student health and wellness.”  

“This jump-start on immunizations is a game-changer for many of our students,” said Dr. Amy Cashwell, HCPS Superintendent. “It not only addresses student health needs but also helps reduce absenteeism by ensuring students aren’t delayed in enrolling or attending school because of missing vaccinations. 

In addition to receiving immunizations at in-school events, families without insurance or who are enrolled in Medicaid can schedule appointments at an RHHD clinic by calling (804) 205-3501 and can find more information at rhhd.gov/childhoodvax. The Vaccines for Children Program (VFC) provides free vaccines for uninsured, underinsured, and Medicaid-enrolled children. Families can search for a nearby VFC provider using this tool 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 and can learn more by visiting rhhd.gov/childhoodvax-partners. 

 

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.us/health | RCHD Facebook | HCHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

Richmond Public Schools’ Health Services Department provides student-centered wellness in an effort to keep students in school
and ready to learn. Medical supervision and services are provided with daily assessments and management of student health needs. 

rvaschools.net | Facebook: RVASchools | IG: @rvaschools 

Henrico County Public Schools, an innovative leader in educational excellence, will actively engage our students in diverse
educational, social and civic learning experiences that inspire and empower them to become contributing citizens. 

www.henricoschools.us | Facebook  | Instagram | Twitter | Heart of Henrico 

 

 

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 are encouraged to sign the RPS-provided consent form and have their 6th and 11th graders receive their school-required immunizations ahead of the traditional Back-to-School season. 

“Now is a great time for all 6th and 11th graders to receive their required immunizations for the next school year,” said RHHD Nurse Manager, Amy Popovich. “In-school clinics provide a convenient way for families to stay up to date on these safe and effective vaccines, making sure their child is ready to start the next school year strong.” 

“Our vaccination program is a vital part of our Wellness and health efforts at RPS, said Chief Wellness Officer, Renesha Parks. “Partnering with RHHD means that families and students can take care of a critical step in the enrollment process without needing to leave the school building. We’re committed to lowering barriers facing our students and grateful to everyone who makes this possible.”  

Current 6th and 11th graders at the following schools are invited to attend on-site immunization clinics. These events are for the students at each school only. See below for additional immunization appointment options. 

Wednesday, Feb. 21  9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.  Lucille Brown Middle School	Thursday, March 7  1 p.m. – 3 p.m.  Open High School	Tuesday, March 19  9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.  Thomas C. Boushall Middle School
Tuesday, Feb 27  1 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.  Franklin Military Academy	Tuesday, March 12  9:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.  Albert Hill Middle School	Thursday, March 21  10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.  Thomas Jefferson High School
Thursday, Feb. 29  10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.  Armstrong High School	Thursday, March 14  9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.  Richmond Alternative School	Tuesday, March 26  9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.  Richmond Community High School
Wednesday, March 6  10 a.m. – 2 p.m.  River City Middle School	Thursday, March 14  1 p.m. – 3 p.m.  Dogwood Middle School

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

• Tetanus, Diphtheria, & Pertussis Vaccine (Tdap)
  Booster dose required after age 11 and prior to 7th grade entry.
   
• Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine (MenACWY)
  The first dose shall be administered after age 11 and prior to 7th grade entry. 

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

• Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine (MenACWY) Effective July 1, 2021
  Two properly spaced doses of meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY). The first dose shall be administered after age 11 and prior to 7th grade entry. The second dose shall be administered prior to entry to the twelfth grade. One dose is required for 12th -grade entry if the first dose is received at or after 16 years of age. 

Also required but not provided at these events: 

• Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (HPV), Effective July 1, 2021
  Two properly spaced doses of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine (for males and females). The first dose shall be administered after age 11 and prior to 7th grade entry. Parents may opt-out of this vaccine after they have received information from RPS and are encouraged to speak with their child’s pediatrician to make an informed decision. Students are not excluded for HPV non-compliance. 

 

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

Families without insurance or who are enrolled in Medicaid can schedule appointments at an RHHD clinic by calling (804) 205-3501 and can find more information at rhhd.gov/childhoodvax. The Vaccines for Children Program (VFC) provides free vaccines for uninsured, underinsured, and Medicaid-enrolled children. Families can search for a nearby VFC provider using this tool 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 and can learn more by visiting rhhd.gov/childhoodvax-partners. 

 

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.us/health | RCHD Facebook | HCHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd  

Richmond Public Schools’ Health Services Department provides student-centered wellness in an effort to keep students in school and ready to learn. Medical supervision and services are provided with daily assessments and management of student health needs. 

rvaschools.net | Facebook: RVASchools | IG: @rvaschools 

RICHMOND, VA —Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) commemorate National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on Wednesday, Feb. 7 by encouraging Black Richmond and Henrico residents to get tested and seek treatment. This day also 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. 

This year’s NBHAAD theme is “Engage, Educate, Empower: Uniting to End HIV/AIDS in Black Communities.” This theme focuses on amplifying the dialogue around HIV/AIDS, improving education, and highlighting success stories and strategies. RHHD, along with community partners, offers services that include pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a medication that can reduce a person’s chance of contracting HIV after an exposure.  

“RHHD is committed to expanding access to HIV testing and PrEP for our Black residents,” said Clinical Nurse Supervisor, Cassie Beamon. “We hope that National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day will encourage more community members, especially Black women, to seek the care they need.” 

In 2021, 40% of all people living with HIV in the U.S were Black. But Black Americans only made up 14% of the population taking PrEP. Beamon sees a similar discrepancy in populations taking PrEP locally. In Richmond, proximity to resources like clinics and pharmacies, as well as insurance status, are still shaped by histories of redlining and segregation.   

For more information about RHHD clinical services and to schedule an appointment, call (804) 205-3501 or visit rhhd.gov/VA-HIV-testing. The following RHHD community partners also offer STI testing services: Nationz Foundation (804) 716-7597, Minority Health Consortium (804) 225-0820, and Health Brigade (804) 358-6343 ext. 2145. Residents can find a testing site at the following link: CDC testing site locator. 

 

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.us/health | RCHD Facebook | HCHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

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October 12, 2023 — The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage residents to prepare for flu season by scheduling an immunization appointment with their physician, a local pharmacy, or at an RHHD clinic or event.  

“Getting your flu shot is a great way to protect yourself and the community,” said Sarah Widmer, RHHD Nurse Manager. “We encourage Richmond and Henrico Residents to come out to our event on October 23 or make an appointment with their doctor, their local pharmacy or with our Immunization Clinic.” 

RHHD will host a walk-up flu immunization event at the Eastern Henrico Recreation Center (1440 N Laburnum Ave. Richmond, VA 23223) Monday, Oct 23 from 9 – 11 a.m. The flu shot will be available to insured, underinsured, and uninsured residents free of charge at the event. 

Monday, Oct 23
9 – 11 a.m. 

Walk-up Flu Immunization Event
No appointment needed 

Eastern Henrico Rec Center
1440 N Laburnum Ave
Richmond, VA 23223 

RHHD also encourages residents to visit vaccines.gov, where they can search for nearby vaccination appointments. Residents should bring their insurance card to their appointment. RHHD offers immunization clinics at its Henrico East, Henrico West, and Cary Street locations. Spanish bilingual staff are available at each location. Residents can schedule appointments at an RHHD site by calling (804) 205-3501 and can find more information at rhhd.gov/flu. 

 

Henrico East Clinic 1400 N. Laburnum Ave. Richmond, VA 23223

Henrico West Clinic 8600 Dixon Powers Dr. Henrico, VA 23228

Cary Street Clinic 400 E. Cary St. Richmond, VA 23219

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.us/health | RCHD Facebook | HCHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

July 31, 2023 — Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) expand access to naloxone (generic Narcan) and naloxone training for residents living near RHHD Resource Centers through the REVIVE! Lay Rescuer Training of Trainers program. This program empowers Community Health Workers (CHW) to teach the general public how to administer naloxone to stop an opioid overdose. Residents can receive this important training in RHHD’s Resource Centers during routine visits. 

“Teaching residents how to see the signs of an overdose and how to administer naloxone makes me proud to know that I have somebody here in the community to save life when I’m not there,” shared Community Health Worker Quawneisha Peoples. “My goal is to have Narcan in the hands of everyone in the community,” said Community Health Worker Patrice Shelton, “We have not come up with a way to keep opioids out of the community, but we do have a way to equip the community with naloxone.” 

RHHD offers free virtual REVIVE! training each week via Zoom. REVIVE! is Virginia’s statewide opioid overdose and naloxone education program, which covers recognizing signs of an opioid overdose and how to respond using naloxone. Residents can register for a 40-minute training on Tuesdays from 6-7 PM or Thursdays from 1-2 PM using the following link: rhhd.gov/overdose-prevention and can indicate if they would like to become a trainer themselves. Those who are unable to attend a training but would like to be trained on and receive naloxone, can call or text (804) 592-8069 for more information. Residents can call ahead to arrange for free, contactless naloxone dispensing from RHHD Resource Centers from 10am to 1pm, Monday through Friday while supplies last: rhhd.gov/RC.  

Naloxone, the generic name for Narcan, blocks or reverses the effects of opioids — including extreme drowsiness, slowed breathing, or loss of consciousness — when administered during an overdose. On March 29, 2023, the FDA approved the over-the-counter sale of Narcan in the U.S. Previously, Narcan and generic naloxone were only available with a prescription. Virginia’s Good Samaritan Overdose Law states that no one is subject to arrest or prosecution for drugs/paraphernalia if seeking emergency medical attention for themselves or others who are overdosing. Between January 1 and June 30, 2023, RHHD hosted 158 naloxone distribution events, dispensed 553 units of Naloxone, and trained 211 residents to administer this life-saving drug.  

For more information about VDH and RHHD’s Opioid Response, please visit rhhd.gov/overdose-prevention or call (804) 592-8069. 

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.