Category: pr

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 29, 2025 
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov  

Richmond Health Equity Fund Announces Continued Funding for Community Organizations 

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Health Equity Fund (HEF) announces $135,000 in continued funding for community organizations providing services in the following areas: 

• Access to Healthcare and Education Resources 
• Chronic Disease and Underlying Health Conditions 
• Food Access and Security 
• Maternal and Child Health 
• Mental and Behavioral Health 

“The Health Equity Fund embodies what it means to build a Thriving Richmond, where families, neighborhoods, and communities have the resources they need and deserve to live healthy, full lives,” said Richmond Mayor Danny Avula. “I’m so thrilled to continue investing in trusted, community-led organizations that create real opportunity and advance health equity where it matters most. We’re deeply grateful to the community partners whose leadership makes this possible.” 

“The Health Equity Fund continues to drive meaningful progress in closing health disparity gaps that have persisted for decades,” said City of Richmond Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Human Services Amy Popovich. “By investing in these seven organizational partners, we’re supporting proven, community-led programs that continue to reflect what a Thriving Richmond can be. This funding reflects our belief that every resident deserves the chance to thrive and that equity is achieved when we resource those closest to the work.”  

New and renewed funding 

The Richmond Health Equity Fund invests in community-led programs, initiatives, and leaders to improve health and quality of life in communities experiencing deep health disparities and the longstanding impacts of racism. To-date, the HEF has designated over $4.3 million, including $397,398 in new funding and an additional $135,000 in continued funding for community organizations announced today: 

• Access to Healthcare and Education Resources  
  • CrossOver Healthcare Ministry provides integrated chronic disease care and education to uninsured or Medicaid patients who are City of Richmond residents. 
  • Health Brigade provides communicable disease testing, treatment, and linkage to care specifically for syphilis, hepatitis C virus (HCV), tuberculosis (TB), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) to low income, uninsured and underinsured Richmond residents. 
• Chronic Disease and Underlying Health Conditions  
  • Healthy Hearts Plus provides both the eight-week virtual Community Based Diabetes Self-Management Education program, and the Food is Medicine delivery program to help participants to lower their A1Cs, lose weight, and manage associated comorbidities through subtle lifestyle changes.   
• Food Access and Security  
  • Kinfolk Community produces culturally appropriate food, trains youth in urban agriculture, and improves physical and mental health within historically underserved communities through health education, community care events, and restorative practices. 
  • Shalom Farms maintains the Mobile Market program through the general and shoulder (extended) market season, keeping up with inflating costs, and funding additional value-add products from other producers at the markets. 
• Maternal and Child Health  
  • Urban Baby Beginnings is expanding longer-term care coordination staffing and resources for birthing and postpartum individuals and their infants in Richmond City. 
• Mental and Behavioral Health   
  • Drums No Guns Foundation provides programming in the mindfulness room, expanding the reach of community circles, enhancing programming in the school and community garden, as well as increasing involvement of students in the Generation Dream educational concert. 

History of the Health Equity Fund 

In October 2021, the City of Richmond established the Health Equity Fund to focus on key areas of health disparity through an initial investment of $5 million from federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Since then, the HEF has diversified its funding sources to include City of Richmond non-departmental funding and investments from The Community Foundation, The Bob and Anna Lou Schaberg Foundation, Atlantic Union Bank, Dominion Charitable Foundation, and the Robins Foundation. 

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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: October 27, 2025
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov 

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

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

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

Washing Hands 

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

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

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

Covering Your Cough 

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

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

Getting Immunized 

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

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

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

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

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

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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: October 17, 2025 

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

 

RHHD Shares Tips for Preventing Childhood Lead Poisoning 

National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is October 19-25 

RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage community members to take steps to prevent childhood lead poisoning. These steps include talking to a healthcare provider about testing children for lead poisoning and testing for lead in homes built before 1978. Oct. 19-25 is National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week. 

Know the dangers of lead poisoning. 

Even at low levels, lead interferes with normal brain development and may cause reduced intelligence, behavioral problems, and learning disabilities in children. Children who have lead poisoning may not show any early signs or symptoms. Having your child tested is the only way to know if they are lead poisoned. 

Talk to a professional about lead testing. 

The RHHD Lead Safe Program provides lead education, screening, and lead risk assessments and inspections for lead poisoned children. Please call 804-205-3726 for more information. 

“During National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, we remind everyone that there is no safe level of lead in the body,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Environmental Health Manager Cindy McKelvy. “Childhood lead exposure is preventable. You can stop lead exposure before it starts by having your home tested and repaired and by following safe work practices. Let’s ensure that children have Lead Safe places to live, learn, and play.” 

Talk to your healthcare provider or explore RHHD’s list of local pediatricians if you have questions about lead testing for children. Use this tool from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to locate a Lead-Based Paint Professional in your area. 

Take these steps to help prevent lead poisoning at home and work: 

• Wet-clean floors and windowsills regularly. 
• Wash children’s hands and toys frequently. 
• Be aware of chipping paint.  
• Use lead-safe practices to make sure painted surfaces are maintained or repaired. 
• Improper paint repairs could create more hazardous lead poison conditions.  
• Be aware of toys, jewelry, dishes, pottery, and foods that may contain lead. 
• Be aware of hobbies or jobs that may involve working with lead, including: 
• Stained glass making 
• Pottery 
• Painting 
• Construction 

Consider the following factors when assessing your child’s risk of lead poisoning: 

• Older homes can contain lead-based paint and hazardous lead dust levels. Homes built before 1978, the year the EPA banned lead-based paint, may still contain lead paint. Young children are most at risk for lead poisoning through lead dust and lead paint exposure. 

• Lead can exist in water pipes. Richmond residents can contact the Lead Free Water Program for more information. Henrico residents can contact the Lead Service Line Replacement Program for more information. A new federal rule requires drinking water systems across the country to identify and replace lead pipes within 10 years. 

• Lead can exist in bare soil. New homes may be built on lots that still have lead dust in the soil. Families should limit the amount of time children play in bare soil, keep outside toys outside, and encourage hand washing.  

• Nutrition can provide some protection from lead poising. Children who get enough food—and especially iron, vitamin C, and calcium rich foods—are less likely to absorb high levels of lead. RHHD offers access to healthy foods for children through the WIC Supplemental Nutrition program. 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. 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: October 08, 2025 

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

RHHD Reports Reduced Risk for Transmission of West Nile Virus in Henrico County 

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) reports that the latest surveillance of mosquito trap sites shows reduced risk for transmission of West Nile Virus (WNV) in Henrico County. There have been no recent documented human cases of WNV in Henrico County. 

As of Tuesday, Oct. 7, the percentage of positive mosquito trap sites has dropped below the 50 percent threshold over the last two weeks that would indicate increased risk of transmission of WNV. 

RHHD alerted the public Sept. 19 that Henrico County’s Department of Public Works’ (DPW) Vector Surveillance and Control Division had found that at least 50 percent of mosquito trap sites tested in the past two weeks had returned positive results for WNV. Henrico DPW took immediate action to reduce the risk of transmission of WNV, including: 

• launching a large-scale, intensified mosquito larvicide operation within County rights-of-way where there was documented high WNV activity; and 
• increasing trapping and testing efforts to closely monitor the spread of WNV in mosquitoes. 

Even though the risk for transmission of WMV has been reduced, members of the public should still take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites. 

• Wear loose-fitting and long sleeves and pants and limit the amount of exposed skin when you’re outside in areas where mosquitoes may be active. 
  • The mosquitoes that transmit WNV are most active from dusk until dawn, but they can bite you at any time. 
• Consider using an EPA-registered insect repellent on your skin or clothing.  
• When using insect repellant on children, keep the following in mind: 
  • The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using products containing no more greater than 30% DEET on children. 
  • Do not use insect repellent on babies under two months of age. 
  • Oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol should never be used on children under three years of age. 
  • Para-menthane-diol is derived from the Australian lemon-scented gum tree, Corymbia citriodora.   
• Sleep with windows and doors closed unless they are well-screened. 

How to prevent mosquito habitats on your property: 

• Check outside your residence to be sure there are no containers of standing water. Some mosquitoes lay eggs in containers of water, including containers that only hold about as much water as a bottle cap. 
  • Dump water that collects in containers each week. 
  • Wading pools, ornamental ponds, bird baths, neglected swimming pools, flowerpot trays, buckets and used tires can all serve as sources of standing water for mosquitoes to breed in. 
  • Wash out containers each week before refilling them with clean water.  
  • Mosquito eggs take about one week to hatch. 
  • Cover or store boats or buckets upside down to prevent water from collecting in these containers. 
• Use mosquito larvicide dunks to regularly treat containers of water that cannot be dumped or drained. 
  • Larvicide dunks kill mosquito larvae in stagnant water sources during warm months when mosquitoes are active. 
  • Follow instructions on the package for correct use. 

Henrico residents can request a free inspection of their property to look for mosquito breeding sites and offer advice to limit mosquitoes around the home. Fill out the inspection form if you are interested. 

West Nile Virus 

West Nile Virus is the most common mosquito-borne disease in Virginia. People can get WNV after being bitten by an infected mosquito. WNV cannot spread through coughing, sneezing, or touching, or through eating infected animals or birds. 

The majority of people with WNV infection have mild or no symptoms. People 55 years of age and older, and people with certain medical conditions such as cancer or kidney disease, are more susceptible to illness and account for most of the serious WNV illnesses, which can lead to permanent disability or death. 

 WNV symptoms include: 

• Fever 
• Headache 
• Body aches 
• Vomiting and/or diarrhea 
• Rash (25– 50 percent of cases) 

There is currently no vaccine available for WNV in humans. Mosquito control programs and personal protective measures provide the best protection against exposure to infected mosquitoes. 

Please visit the Virginia Department of Health website for more information on mosquitoes and mosquito-borne illness. Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. 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:  October 6, 2025 

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

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts and Henrico Department of Social Services Promote Safe Infant Sleep 

October is SIDS Awareness Month 

RICHMOND, Va. – In support of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) partners with Henrico Department of Social Services (HDSS) to encourage expecting and new parents and caregivers to talk with their pediatrician or other healthcare provider about creating a safe sleep environment for children under the age of two. 

“Awareness is one of the strongest tools we have to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Maternity Navigation Program Coordinator Adranae Mena. “RHHD provides safe sleep education through the Low-Income Safety Seat Program. We provide families with the right equipment for their vehicles and the knowledge to protect infants in their crib or bassinet. Through partnerships, education, and community support, RHHD gives parents and caregivers the confidence and resources they need to help infants sleep safely.” 

“As a community in Henrico, we equip parents and caregivers with safe practices for infant naps and overnight sleep,” said Henrico County Department of Social Services Assistant Director of Service Programs Mandi Green. “Creating consistent habits—having babies sleep alone, on their backs, and in a crib—will promote the health and well-being of our youngest residents.” 

RHHD and HDSS offer the following tips for creating a safe sleep environment:  

• Always place babies on their backs for naps and when they go to sleep at night.  
• Make sure the sleep surface is firm, flat, level, and covered only with a fitted sheet.   
• Share a room with babies for at least the first six months. Give babies their own sleep space (crib, bassinet, or portable play yard) in your room, separate from your bed.  
• Take the #ClearTheCrib Challenge and remove any extra items in the sleep area including soft objects, toys, and crib bumpers.  

For more tips and information, visit the National Institutes of Health Safe to Sleep campaign. 

In 2022, there were about 3,700 sudden unexpected infant deaths (SUID) in the U.S. 1,040 of those deaths were from accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed. In 2023, there were 69 cases of SUID in Virginia. 

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

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Henrico Department of Social Services – Our mission is to improve the quality of life for Henrico County residents by assisting them in meeting their essential human needs and encouraging their self-sufficiency. 

henrico.gov/dss/ 

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:  October 2, 2025 

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

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Encourage Women to Focus on Breast Health
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage women 25 years of age and older to talk with their health care provider about their risk for developing breast cancer. Women 40 and older should get regular breast screenings. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a month devoted to educating people about breast cancer — including metastatic breast cancer (MBC) — and the importance of early detection and access to timely, high-quality care.  

“Breast cancer screening helps find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “We encourage people to talk to their health care provider about which breast cancer screening tests are right for them.” 

Breast cancer screening and diagnosis information for Virginia and the U.S. 

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends breast cancer screening start at age 40 and continue every two years until age 74 to better serve younger women. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, data from 2015 to 2019 in the U.S. show a 2% increase in breast cancer diagnoses per year among women in their 40s. In 2023, an estimated 43,170 women died of breast cancer. Non-Hispanic White women have the highest incidence of breast cancer and non-Hispanic Black women have the highest mortality rate from breast cancer.  

Breast cancer data for Richmond City and Henrico County 

According to the National Cancer Institute’s State Cancer Profile, the rate of new cases of breast cancer in Virginia rose slightly between 2017 and 2021. The rate in Richmond was similar to the rate in Virginia. The rate in Henrico was somewhat higher than the rate in Virginia. 

Virginia Department of Health (VDH) data from 2018-2022 show that female breast cancer was the second most common cancer in Richmond City, with about 129 cases per 100,000 people, just behind prostate cancer. In Henrico County, breast cancer was the most common cancer, with about 148 cases per 100,000 people, higher than prostate cancer at 137. In both areas, breast cancer rates were highest among White (non-Hispanic) women and second highest among Black non-Hispanic women. 

How to find breast cancer screening providers 

Use this tool from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to search for mammography providers by zip code. Use rhhd.gov/connect-pc to locate primary care providers in the Richmond City and Henrico County area.  

Breast health resources for uninsured and income-eligible women 

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.  

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.  

The EWL program provides a clinical breast exam, mammogram, pelvic exam, Pap test, and any diagnostic test required to reach a final diagnosis. If a woman enrolled in EWL is diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer she may be eligible for Medicaid to pay for treatment. People can use this link to find a EWL provider near them. 

The Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation supports a Screening and Diagnostic Services Fund. This fund covers diagnostic mammograms, ultrasounds, biopsies, and MRIs for income-eligible, uninsured, and underinsured Virginians. 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. 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 September 29, 2025
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov 

RHHD Shares the Importance of Heart Health
World Heart Day is September 29 

RICHMOND, Va. – World Heart Day is September 29. Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) remind you to add healthy habits into your daily lives to prevent your risk of heart disease and stroke. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in Virginia. Simple lifestyle changes can decrease your risk of experiencing heart-related issues. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the most common type of heart disease in the United States is coronary artery disease, which can lead to heart attack. In the United States, someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds. 

“Heart disease is the leading cause of death in both Richmond City and Henrico County, and our region has higher hospitalizations rates for heart disease and hypertension than the state average,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Population Health Manager Tamara Jones-Groves. “Small steps like eating healthy, staying active, and getting regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can save lives.” 

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Other leading preventable risk factors include: 

• High LDL (bad) cholesterol 
• Smoking 
• Poor nutrition 
• Physical inactivity 
• Type 2 diabetes 
• Obesity 

If you have a heart attack, you are more likely to survive if you know the signs and symptoms. The major symptoms of a heart attack include:   

• Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back 
• Feeling weak, light-headed, or faint 
• Chest pain or discomfort 
• Pain or discomfort in the arms or shoulder 
• Shortness of breath 

If you think that you or someone you know is having a heart attack, you should call 911 immediately.   

The Richmond City and Henrico County communities identified chronic disease, including heart disease, as an area of concern in the 2024 RHHD Community Health Assessment (CHA). RHHD is working with these communities to create a Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) to address this priority area, among others. For more information about the CHA and CHIP, visit the RHHD website.  

For more information about heart disease, visit the Virginia Department of Health Heart Disease webpage. Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. 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 September 24, 2025 

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

RHHD Encourages Parents and Caregivers to Prioritize Child Passenger Safety  

Child Passenger Safety Week is September 21-27 

RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage parents and caregivers to choose the right car seat for their child and install the seat properly. RHHD Community Health Workers (CHWs) lead several classes per month at local resource centers as part of the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) Low Income Safety Seat Program. This program offers brand-new car seats and education to income-qualified families. Call 1-800-732-8333 for more information. 

“The car seat safety program helps families ensure that all children are safe during a car ride,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Community Health Worker Senior Yovaldi Lamoutt. “The car seat safety program provides families with a brand-new car seat and teaches parents and caregivers how to property install it.” 

How to choose a seat and get help with installation 

Use this guide from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to choose the right car seat for your child’s age and size. VDH hosts regular car seat safety seat check events and offers remote service by request. Many locations throughout the country will be offering free car seat inspections by certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians on National Seat Check Saturday (Sept. 27). Visit nhtsa.gov/CarSeatInspection to find out if an event or technician is available in your community.  

Car seat safety tips from the NHTSA: 

• Read the instructions. Read both the car seat instruction manual and the vehicle owner’s manual before installing a car seat. Contact a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician for no-cost assistance. 
• Use the tether on forward-facing car seats. Secure the tether when installing a forward-facing car seat. The tether prevents the car seat from moving forward in a crash and may prevent head injury. Read your vehicle owner’s manual to find the correct tether anchor location.  
• Don’t rush to the next seat. Keep kids in the right seat for their age and size for as long as possible. 
• Keep kids under 13 in the back seat of the vehicle. Never place a car seat in the front seat. Air bags in the front seat are designed for adult passengers. 
• Register car seats with the manufacturer. When you register your car seat with the manufacturer, the manufacturer will be able to notify you in the event of a recall. NHTSA’s SaferCar app provides an easy way for parents and caregivers to save their vehicle and car seat details.  

Every day in 2023, on average, two children under 14 were killed and 345 were injured in traffic crashes while riding in passenger vehicles, according to the NHTSA. In 2023, 43% of children killed in car crashes were unrestrained. 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. 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 September 22, 2025 

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

RHHD Encourages People Experiencing Asthma Symptoms to Seek Care 

Asthma Peak Week is the third week in September 

RICHMOND, Va. — The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage anyone experiencing asthma or asthma-like symptoms, including chest tightness or pain, wheezing when exhaling, or trouble sleeping caused by shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing, to talk to a healthcare provider about their symptoms. This is especially important during Asthma Peak Week, the third week in September, to help reduce the risk of severe symptoms. 

People with asthma and allergies are exposed to several triggers in September. Ragweed, the most common fall pollen allergy, is highest in September in the U.S. Mold counts go up as leaves collect outside. Children return to school and may catch respiratory infections.  

For 2025, Richmond ranked number 16 on the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America list of Asthma Capitals. The Richmond metropolitan area also ranked number eight on the list of most challenging places to live with seasonal allergies.    

“While Richmond’s ranking of number 16 on the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America’s list of Asthma Capitals shows some progress from last year, it remains one of the most challenging cities to live in for asthma sufferers,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Child Health Advisor Becca Bruhl. “Asthma Peak Week reminds us to raise awareness of asthma and take meaningful steps to support those affected by this very common chronic condition.” 

Here are some steps you can take to help manage asthma in September: 

• Learn the signs and symptoms of asthma. 
• Avoid or reduce exposure to asthma triggers and respiratory irritants. 
• Follow your Asthma Action Plan to keep your asthma under control. 
• Centers for Disease Controls (CDC) offers this template for an Asthma Action Plan. 
• Seek medical care if your symptoms occur more than twice per week. 
• Protect yourself from respiratory infections. 
• Get vaccinated. 
• Wear a mask in crowded places.  
• Wash your hands properly. 
• Stay away from sick people. 
• Manage your allergies and improve indoor air quality. 

Reach out to a primary care or other physician to receive diagnosis and treatment if you are experiencing the symptoms of asthma. You can get help connecting to a primary care physician, regardless of insurance status, by visiting rhhd.gov/connect-pc.  

Make sure your child’s school nurse has a copy of their asthma action plan. Parents can find more information at RHHD’s school health hub, rhhd.gov/school-health-hub. 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. 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