COVID-19 Updates
Today, the Blue Ridge Health District (BRHD) had 800 newly reported COVID-19 cases - our highest daily case count since the pandemic began. We are experiencing a significantly high spread of infection throughout the community, mainly due to the new Omicron variant.

It is important to remember that we are dealing with a different variant of COVID-19 than we started with in March of 2020. While data from previous variants (Alpha, Beta, Delta) is helpful in guiding mitigation measures, it does not automatically translate directly to Omicron. Guidance may change as more research on Omicron emerges. We will continue to monitor for new information, and share the best tools at our disposal to keep our community safe. 

Speaking of safety, just as you would layer up to stay warm on a cold winter day, the more safety measures you use, the better protected you are against a COVID-19 infection. Keep yourself and those around you safe by:
  • Getting vaccinated and boosted if eligible
  • Wearing a high-quality, properly fitted mask indoors
  • Socially distancing around others
  • Washing your hands frequently
  • Avoiding large gatherings
  • Seeking testing if you think you’ve been exposed
  • Staying home when sick
Post COVID Conditions: Long COVID
The CDC defines post-COVID conditions as a range of new, returning, or ongoing health problems for four or more weeks after initial infection by the SARS-COV-2 virus. This is often called  “long/long haul COVID,” “post-acute COVID,” or “chronic COVID.” 

Individuals who did not initially experience symptoms after being infected can still develop post-COVID conditions. The conditions may present as combinations of health issues for varying lengths of time. For example, individuals may experience new and ongoing symptoms, like recurring headaches or cough, even if they experienced a mild case of COVID-19. Individuals who experienced more severe illness from a COVID-19 infection may develop autoimmune conditions or experience multi-organ effects long after the initial symptoms of illness. 

Like adults, kids and teens who experienced “mild” illness due to COVID-19 or no symptoms at all can develop long COVID. Common symptoms noted by this younger age group included tiredness/fatigue, headaches, insomnia, difficulty concentrating, muscle or joint pain, and cough. If your child is experiencing any lingering health issues after their initial infection, talk to your pediatrician. 

To learn more and see the complete list of symptoms, visit the CDC’s page on post-COVID conditions here.
Extended Vaccination Hours at
Local Health Departments
Starting February 1, 2022, all COVID-19 vaccine clinics at our local health departments will be extending 2 hours! We will offer FREE COVID vaccines for everyone ages 5 years and older: 
  • Mondays: Greene County Health Department, 12-6pm
  • Tuesday: Louisa County Health Department, 12-6pm
  • Wednesdays: Fluvanna County Health Department, 12-6pm
  • Thursdays: Nelson County Health Health Department, 12-6pm
  • Fridays: Charlottesville/Albemarle County Health Department, 1-6pm

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred. Sign up for your 1-3rd dose or booster at our website now >>
Now Hiring: Community Health Workers
If you have an interest in maintaining and improving the health of your own community, perhaps a career in public health with BRHD is right for you!

BRHD is hiring two Community Health Workers for Greene and Louisa/Fluvanna counties to conduct community outreach and health education around COVID-19 and act as a bridge to BRHD COVID-19 testing, vaccinations and support services, and other BRHD services.
Meet the BRHD Team
Each week, we introduce you to one of our Health District Heroes so you can get to know the people working to keep you safe and healthy every day. This week, meet John Manzano, BRHD COVID-19 Case Investigator.
 
How long have you been at BRHD?
Since August of 2020.
 
What is your job?
Contact tracing. Primarily I inform individuals of their exposure to a COVID-19 case, and what they should do to quarantine so as to keep themselves and others safe during that period. 
 
Who are you outside of BRHD?
My wife and I enjoy spending our time reading, traveling, sailing, and gathering with friends and family.
Remember, vaccination is only one tool to end the pandemic.
We need to use them all in order to return to normal day-to-day activities.
Continue to wear face masks, maintain physical distance, wash hands frequently and properly, and limit indoor social gatherings.