VA Dept of Health Newsroom

Two Confirmed Measles Cases Identified in Virginia Northwest Region

The Virginia Department of Health confirmed two measles cases in the Northwest Region on April 21, 2026 — a preschool-age child (0–4 years) and a school-age child (5–12 years) who traveled together domestically. Exposure sites include KidMed Stafford Urgent Care (April 16, 4:30–8 p.m.) and Grafton Village Elementary School in Fredericksburg (April 9–10, April 13–16, and April 20). Virginia has recorded 19 measles cases in 2026 to date. Exposed individuals are advised to report via VDH survey, verify MMR vaccination status, monitor for symptoms for 21 days, and contact healthcare providers if not fully vaccinated or symptomatic.

Tick Bite Prevention Advisory for Virginians

The Virginia Department of Health and Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services jointly issued a public health advisory warning Virginians of increased tick activity as spring weather arrives. The advisory identifies Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Alpha-gal Syndrome as tick-borne illness risks in Virginia and recommends prevention measures including EPA-registered insect repellent, permethrin-treated clothing, and thorough post-outdoor body checks for ticks.

Flannagan Reservoir Fish Consumption Advisory: No Walleye, 2 Meals/Month Bass

The Virginia Department of Health has issued a fish consumption advisory for John W. Flannagan Reservoir due to elevated polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) detected in walleye, channel catfish, and largemouth bass. Fish tissue sampling conducted from May 2022 through September 2025 showed PCB levels exceeding safe thresholds for long-term human consumption. Walleye carry a Do Not Eat advisory while channel catfish and largemouth bass are limited to two meals per month. The advisory area includes the Cranesnest River arm upstream to the Highway 83 Bridge and the Pound River arm upstream to the Lower Georges Fork Hollow bridge. Recreational activities such as swimming, water skiing, and boating are not affected.

PFOS Fish Consumption Advisory Issued for Occoquan Watershed

Virginia Department of Health has issued a fish consumption advisory for the Occoquan watershed due to elevated PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate) levels in largemouth bass and bluegill sunfish. Fish tissue samples collected from March 2024 through September 2025 show PFOS levels exceed safe thresholds for long-term human consumption. VDH advises no consumption of largemouth bass from the Occoquan River and Reservoir, while limiting consumption to two meals per month of largemouth bass and bluegill sunfish from other affected waterways. Localities impacted include Fairfax, Fauquier, Manassas, and Prince William counties.

Virginia Issues Fish Advisory for Chickahominy River

The Virginia Department of Health issued a fish consumption advisory for the Chickahominy River effective April 14, 2026, after elevated perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) levels were detected in black crappie through tissue sampling conducted from 2023 to 2024. VDH advises eating no more than two fish meals per month of black crappie from the affected river area, and recommends that children and pregnant or nursing women avoid consuming fish from the advisory area.

Recreational Water Advisory Issued for McClure River Due to Sewage Spill

The Virginia Department of Health has issued a recreational water advisory for the McClure River in Dickenson County, Virginia, out of an abundance of caution following a sewage spill to a tributary of the river discovered by the Dickenson Public Sewer Authority the week of April 10, 2026. The advisory area extends from the McClure River in front of Electric Hardwoods on Dickenson Hwy to the bridge over the Russell Fork River on State Route 63 Big Ridge Rd., with repairs expected over the next week. VDH has observed no evidence of impacts to drinking water at this time. Affected residents and visitors should avoid full-body water contact activities such as swimming, wading, tubing, and white-water canoeing or kayaking, while boating activities where full-body submersion is not likely may continue with proper caution.

RHHD Encourages Community Members to Seek Preventative Care and Screening for Tuberculosis

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) released a public health advisory on March 24, 2026 (World TB Day) encouraging community members to seek TB screening, preventative care, and treatment. Virginia reported 225 TB cases in 2024, a 9% increase from 207 cases in 2023, with TB case rates rising from 2.4 to 2.6 per 100,000 persons. Richmond City (3.1) and Henrico County (3.0) had higher rates than Virginia overall (2.6), though both remained below the national rate of 3 cases per 100,000 persons.

Virginia TB Cases Decline 14 Percent, Diabetes Link Noted, Drug Resistance Increases

Virginia reported 194 TB cases in 2025, a 14% decrease from 225 cases in 2024. While cases declined overall and fewer children under five were diagnosed, the state saw an increase in patients with drug-resistant TB and noted that 27% of people with TB disease also had diabetes. World TB Day on March 24 commemorates TB awareness and elimination efforts.

Virginia Reports 14 Measles Cases in 2026, RHHD Encourages Parents to Schedule Children's Wellness Visits Before Summer

The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are encouraging families to schedule wellness visits for children with their primary care provider before summer months. As of March 19, 2026, Virginia has reported 14 measles cases, compared to 5 cases in all of 2025. These visits allow children to receive school-required immunizations and physicals before summer travel and activities. The Virginia Vaccines for Children Program (VVFC) provides free or low-cost vaccines for uninsured, underinsured, and Medicaid-enrolled children.

VDH Lifts Potomac River Recreational Water Advisory

The Virginia Department of Health is lifting the recreational water advisory for the Potomac River from the American Legion Memorial Bridge (I-495) to the Route 120 Chain Bridge, effective March 17, 2026. The advisory was initially issued February 13, 2026, following a sewage spill on January 19 and subsequent discharges in early February. DC Water completed emergency repairs to the Potomac Interceptor on March 14, 2026, and water quality sampling by Virginia DEQ, Maryland, and Washington DC partners confirms bacteria levels are acceptable for recreational use. Montgomery County, Maryland continues to maintain a separate advisory for land areas impacted by the overflow and portions of the river within 200 feet of the Maryland shoreline between Swainson Island and Lock 8.

Virginia Health Department Announces Closures and Early Closures for March 16, 2026

The Virginia Department of Health announced closures and early closures for Monday, March 16, 2026. As of 1:55 p.m., six health departments were fully closed (Alexandria, Charles City, Essex County, Prince George, Surry, and Teen Wellness Center), while approximately 70 additional locations operated on early closure schedules ranging from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The closures represent routine administrative adjustments for weather or operational conditions.

Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts Partner with Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail on Health Literacy

The Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts (HPHD) and the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail (VPRJ) formalized a partnership in June 2025 to deliver an eight-week health literacy education program to incarcerated individuals through the jail's "We Are All In This Together" (WAITT) program. The course covers 17 topics including nutrition, medication management, health insurance navigation, opioid overdose recognition, and workforce development. Since the partnership began, 88 jailed individuals have completed the program, and graduates have accessed substance use recovery services and other community health resources upon release.

Central Virginia Health District Confirms Three Rabid Animals

The Central Virginia Health District received confirmation on March 11, 2026 of three rabid animals found between March 6 and March 9, 2026: a rabid raccoon on Crestview Drive in the Forest area of Bedford County, and two rabid skunks on Suburban Road and Bethany Road in Campbell County. All three rabid animals had known or suspected contact with dogs, and there is no known human exposure among the three incidents. The Virginia Department of Health is issuing rabies prevention guidance to the public.

Rabid Raccoon Found in Chesapeake; Public Health Advisory Issued

A juvenile raccoon discovered on Fordsmere Road in the Woodards Mill neighborhood of Chesapeake, Virginia on March 4, 2026, tested positive for rabies after being captured and submitted for testing by a local animal rescue organization. No animal or human encounters have been reported. Virginia law requires all dogs and cats four months of age and older be vaccinated for rabies by a licensed veterinarian, with vaccinations kept current.

Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts Urge Severe Weather Preparedness During Awareness Week

The Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts in Virginia issued public safety advisories during Severe Weather Awareness Week (March 9-13, 2026), providing guidance on tornado, thunderstorm, lightning, and flooding preparedness. The advisories include shelter recommendations for various severe weather scenarios and reference Virginia's statewide tornado drill scheduled for March 10 at 9:45 a.m. The districts encourage residents to create family emergency plans, build disaster supply kits, and sign up for Wireless Emergency Alerts and local weather warnings.

Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Encourages Healthy Behaviors to Prevent Colon Cancer

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District issued a public health announcement recognizing National Colon Cancer Awareness Month in March 2026, promoting screening guidelines recommending that average-risk adults begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45, and sharing lifestyle recommendations to reduce risk including tobacco cessation, healthy eating, regular exercise, weight management, and limiting alcohol consumption. The announcement provides links to CDC resources and Virginia's Quit Now program, emphasizing that early detection saves lives and screening can prevent cancer by identifying precancerous polyps. No compliance obligations, deadlines, or enforcement actions are associated with this informational announcement.

World HPV Day: Infection Statistics, Cancer Prevention, and Vaccination

The Virginia Department of Health published an informational blog post on March 4, 2026, in recognition of World HPV Awareness Day, providing statistics on HPV infection rates and associated cancer diagnoses, along with prevention information. The post states that approximately 85% of people will contract HPV in their lifetime and that roughly 36,500 Americans are diagnosed annually with HPV-related cancers. The blog promotes the HPV vaccine as a tool capable of preventing more than 90% of HPV-related cancers and provides vaccination recommendations by age group.

VDH Partially Lifts Potomac River Recreational Water Advisory

VDH has partially lifted the recreational water advisory for the portion of the Potomac River from the Route 120 Chain Bridge to the Governor Harry W. Nice Memorial Bridge (Route 301) in King George County, effective March 5, 2026. The advisory remains in effect for the 4.7-mile upstream segment from the American Legion Memorial Bridge (I-495) to the Route 120 Chain Bridge, where water quality sampling by DC agencies continues to show elevated E. coli levels near the January 19 sewage spill site. VDH advises Virginia residents to avoid full-body submersion activities in the remaining advisory area, citing ongoing public health risk from sewage contamination.

Virginia Health Officials Investigate Potential Measles Exposure in Southwest Region

The Virginia Department of Health confirmed a case of measles in an out-of-state resident who traveled internationally and passed through the Southwest Region on March 2, 2026. One potential exposure site has been identified: Centra Lynchburg General Hospital Emergency Department between 10:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. on that date. VDH is advising anyone present at that location during the specified timeframe to report exposure via an online survey, verify vaccination status, and monitor for symptoms through March 23, 2026. Virginia has reported 10 measles cases in 2026 to date.

Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidance

The Virginia Department of Health published colorectal cancer screening guidance highlighting that colorectal cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Virginia. The guidance notes that incidence rates in adults under 50 have been rising by approximately 2 to 3 percent per year over the past two decades. The document recommends that people at average risk begin screening at age 45, while those with symptoms or family history should consult a healthcare provider about earlier screening.

Potomac River Recreational Water Advisory Update

The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) has provided an update on the recreational water advisory for the Potomac River, originally issued by the Virginia Department of Health. The advisory continues, recommending avoidance of water activities in the river, with no end date specified. Testing for bacteria is underway, with results pending.

Rabies Alert - Stray Black Cat Tests Positive in Hopewell City

The Crater Health District confirmed that a stray female black cat tested positive for rabies on February 24, 2026. The cat was involved in multiple bite and scratch incidents near the 2400 block of Oaklawn Blvd and Crestline Blvd in Hopewell City during February 21–22, 2026. The cat is described as weighing 6–8 lbs with missing fur on the top of its head. The Health Department is urging anyone who may have been bitten, scratched, or exposed to the animal's saliva to contact the Crater Health District Environmental Health Office at 804-863-1652 immediately. Pet owners in the affected area are advised to confirm vaccinations are current, avoid contact with stray animals, and report suspicious animals to Hopewell Animal Services at 804-541-2204.

Crater Health District Warns of Increased Winter Substance Use Disorder Risk

Crater Health District (CHD) in Virginia issued a public advisory on February 20, 2026, warning that winter conditions—shorter daylight hours, colder temperatures, reduced outdoor activities, and seasonal social gatherings where substances may be present—increase the risk of substance use disorder (SUD) and relapse. The CHD Overdose Prevention Team provides REVIVE! overdose prevention training with free naloxone, opioid prevention education, fentanyl and xylazine test strips, and connections to peer recovery specialists and long-term recovery resources. The advisory offers practical resilience tips including staying connected to support groups, anticipating high-risk situations, maximizing daylight exposure, and seeking professional help when needed.

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: 8 Cases Reported in 2026

VDH has reported eight confirmed cases of measles in Virginia as of 2026, with seven cases concentrated in the Northern Region and six cases affecting children aged 0–4 years. Active exposure locations have been identified and published, including Heathcote Health Center in Haymarket, Fairfax County Animal Shelter, The Ian Apartment Complex in Herndon, Giant Food in Lorton, and two Inova healthcare facilities in Lorton. The tables and exposure site information were last updated on February 17, 2026.

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.

Virginia Reports Confirmed Measles Case and Lists Exposure Sites

The Virginia Department of Health has confirmed a measles case in Northern Virginia and identified several public exposure sites. Residents who may have been exposed are advised to report their exposure, check their vaccination status, and monitor for symptoms.

Virginia Health Officials Announce Measles Case and Exposure

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has confirmed a measles case in a preschool-aged child and identified potential exposure sites in Northern Virginia and at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. VDH is advising individuals who may have been exposed to report their exposure and check their vaccination status.