VA Dept of Health Newsroom

Virginia Health Officials Investigating Measles Cases

Virginia health officials are investigating two confirmed measles cases in Northern Virginia. The department has identified potential exposure sites and is advising individuals who may have been exposed to report their exposure and check their vaccination status.

Rabies Alert Issued for Southampton County, Virginia

The Southampton County Health Department has issued a public health alert after a skunk tested positive for rabies. Residents are urged to take precautions to protect themselves and their pets, including ensuring vaccinations and avoiding contact with wild animals.

Virginia Health Officials Investigate Confirmed Measles Case

Virginia health officials are investigating a confirmed measles case in Northern Virginia, with potential exposure sites listed. The public is advised to report exposures and check vaccination status. This is the eighth reported measles case in Virginia in 2026.

Virginia Health Department Offers Free Condoms and STI Prevention Information

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is reminding residents about the availability of free condoms and resources for STI prevention, including PrEP and DoxyPEP, in conjunction with Valentine's Day and National Condom Day. The notice highlights rising STI rates in Virginia, particularly syphilis, and provides information on where to access these services.

Chesterfield Health District Promotes Blood Pressure Screening and Coaching

The Chesterfield Health District is promoting the importance of blood pressure screening during American Heart Month. They are offering a coaching program called 'My Blood Pressure, My Health' for low-income adults with high blood pressure, providing monitoring tools and education.

VDH Issues Potomac River Recreational Water Advisory

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has issued a recreational water advisory for a 72.5-mile stretch of the Potomac River due to sewage spills reported on January 19 and February 7, 2026. Residents are advised to avoid water contact activities for an estimated four to six weeks while repairs are underway.

Health District Offers Cancer Risk Reduction Tips

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District has issued guidance on cancer risk reduction tips in observance of National Cancer Prevention Month. The notice outlines lifestyle choices and screening recommendations to help residents lower their risk of developing cancer.

Virginia Measles Outbreak Public Health Alert

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has issued a public health alert regarding a measles outbreak, reporting eight cases in 2026. The alert provides general information on measles, its prevention through vaccination, and details on confirmed cases and exposure locations within Virginia.

Fish Consumption Advisory Issued for Chickahominy Watershed Due to PFOS

Virginia health officials have issued a fish consumption advisory for the Chickahominy Watershed due to elevated PFOS levels in certain fish species. The advisory recommends limiting consumption to two meals per month from the Chickahominy River and no meals from White Oak Swamp.

Virginia Health Officials Announce Measles Exposure Alert

Virginia Health Officials have issued an alert regarding a potential measles exposure at Dulles International Airport on January 24, 2026. The alert advises individuals who may have been exposed to report their exposure and monitor for symptoms.