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Virginia Department Of Health

All articles tagged with #virginia department of health

health1 year ago•1 min saved

"Health Department Probes Outbreak at Liberty University"

The Virginia Department of Health is investigating an outbreak at Liberty University, with symptoms resembling norovirus causing severe abdominal pain, dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea. The cause of the outbreak is unknown, but the health department is working to determine the source. Centra has seen 25-35 patients in the last 48 hours for dehydration, and while it's unconfirmed if they are LU students, the university has issued a campus alert advising preventative measures such as handwashing and avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals.

via WSET|

#centra #health #liberty-university

health2 years ago•1 min saved

"Emerging COVID-19 Variant Raises Fresh Concerns for Infections"

Concerns about COVID-19 infections persist as a new variant, BA.2.86 (Pirola), with 30 new mutations and related to the omicron strain, emerges. The Virginia Department of Health has reported a significant increase in daily cases, prompting a Norfolk-based cardiologist to emphasize the importance of vaccinations. Dr. Keith Newby advises getting whatever vaccine is available now, as all vaccinations are beneficial in preventing hospitalization and keeping individuals with their families. The CDC will end its vaccination distribution program this fall, but most insured Americans can still receive shots at no cost, while the CDC's Bridge Access Program will provide free vaccines for uninsured or underinsured adults until December 2024.

via WAVY.com|

#ba286-variant #covid-19 #health

health2 years ago•1 min saved

Meningococcal Disease Outbreak Strikes Southwest Virginia

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has reported a statewide outbreak of meningococcal disease, with 27 cases and five deaths since June 2022. The disease, caused by Neisseria meningitidis type Y bacteria, presents flu-like symptoms that can quickly become severe. It is spread through respiratory exchange and throat secretions, including kissing and sharing personal items. The VDH advises practicing good hygiene, avoiding contact with sick individuals, and seeking immediate care if symptoms arise. Vaccination is recommended, as 26 of the 27 cases were not vaccinated.

via WJHL-TV News Channel 11|

#health #meningococcal-disease #neisseria-meningitidis

health2 years ago•1 min saved

Meningococcal Disease Outbreak Declared by Virginia Department of Health

The Virginia Department of Health has declared a statewide outbreak of meningococcal disease, with 27 cases reported since June 2022. The disease, caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis type Y, can lead to serious illnesses such as meningitis and septicemia. Symptoms initially resemble the flu but can worsen over time. Prompt medical attention is crucial, and the department recommends practicing good hygiene and ensuring adolescents and teens are vaccinated. The strain associated with the outbreak is circulating more widely in the U.S., but the risk to Virginia's population remains low.

via WWBT|

#health #meningococcal-disease #neisseria-meningitidis-type-y

health2 years ago•1 min saved

Surge in Syphilis Cases Reaches 30-Year High

The Virginia Department of Health has reported the highest number of syphilis cases in over three decades, with a significant increase among women and their babies. In the first four months of 2023, reported cases were 22% higher than the same period in 2022. Syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection, can progress through four stages and mimic other health conditions. Congenital Syphilis, when the infection is passed to the fetus, can cause organ damage, birth defects, or stillbirth. Timely diagnosis and treatment, mainly with Penicillin, are crucial to prevent adverse health outcomes for both the mother and baby. Alternative treatments are available for those allergic to Penicillin, but pregnant women may need to undergo desensitization to receive the recommended treatment.

via WWBT|

#congenital-syphilis #health #stds

health2 years ago•1 min saved

Health officials warn of toxic algae blooms in multiple US waterways.

Officials are warning people to avoid bright blue or teal water at Smith Mountain Lake due to an ongoing algae bloom caused by certain weather patterns. The bloom is causing water discoloration and a layer of film on the surface, and dead fish or other aquatic organisms may be present. The Virginia Department of Health is tracking and warning about the bloom on their website.

via WSLS 10|

#algae-bloom #aquatic-organisms #health