VA Dept of Health Newsroom

PFOS Fish Consumption Advisory Issued for Occoquan Watershed

The Virginia Department of Health has issued a fish consumption advisory for the Occoquan watershed due to elevated PFOS levels detected in largemouth bass and bluegill sunfish. Fish tissue samples collected from March 2024 through September 2025 showed PFOS concentrations exceeding safe thresholds for long-term human consumption. Affected localities include Fairfax, Prince William, Fauquier, and Manassas.

Virginia Issues Fish Advisory for Chickahominy River

The Virginia Department of Health has issued a fish consumption advisory for the Chickahominy River due to elevated perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) levels in black crappie. Fish tissue samples collected from 2023-2024 exceeded safe thresholds for long-term human consumption. VDH advises eating no more than two eight-ounce fish meals per month of black crappie from the affected area.

Recreational Water Advisory for McClure River Sewage Spill

The Virginia Department of Health issued a recreational water advisory for the McClure River in Dickenson County following a sewage spill discovered by the Dickenson Public Sewer Authority. The advisory area extends from Electric Hardwoods on Dickenson Hwy to the bridge over the Russell Fork River on State Route 63 Big Ridge Rd. Swimming, wading, tubing, and white-water activities are discouraged due to risk of contamination, while motor boating, flatwater canoeing, kayaking, and fishing may continue with caution.

Virginia TB Cases Decrease, Diabetes Link, Resistant TB Noted

The Virginia Department of Health reported a 14% decrease in TB cases in 2025 compared to 2024, with 194 cases. The report noted an increase in drug-resistant TB and highlighted diabetes as a common comorbidity, affecting 27% of TB patients in 2025. World TB Day serves as a reminder for TB prevention and elimination efforts.

RHHD Urges TB Screening and Preventative Care Amidst Virginia Case Increase

The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are urging community members to seek tuberculosis (TB) screening and preventative care, noting a 9% increase in Virginia cases in 2024. The notice highlights local TB data, symptoms, and available testing and treatment services through RHHD.

Virginia Measles Cases Prompt Vaccination Encouragement

The Virginia Department of Health has reported 14 measles cases as of March 19, 2026, a significant increase from the five cases reported in all of 2025. The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts are encouraging parents to schedule well-child visits for immunizations before summer.

VDH Lifts Potomac River Recreational Water Advisory

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has lifted the recreational water advisory for the Potomac River, effective March 17, 2026. The advisory was initially issued due to a sewage spill and subsequent discharges, but water quality sampling now indicates acceptable bacteria levels.

VA Health Districts Partner with Jail to Improve Inmate Health Literacy

The Virginia Department of Health's Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts have partnered with the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail to offer an eight-week health literacy program to incarcerated individuals. This initiative aims to reduce health disparities and improve health outcomes for those re-entering the community.

Virginia Health Department Closures and Early Closures

The Virginia Department of Health announced closures and early closures for various health departments and clinics on Monday, March 16, 2026. This notice details specific facilities and their operational status for the day.

Virginia Health District Confirms Three Rabid Animals

The Central Virginia Health District confirmed three rabid animals (one raccoon, two skunks) between March 6-9, 2026, with potential contact with dogs. The notice reminds residents of Virginia's rabies vaccination laws for pets and advises on avoiding wild animals.