Each week, we will share a snapshot of the BRHD COVID-19 transmissions levels from the previous week. Transmission levels are determined by looking at the number of new cases per 100,000 people per seven days and the percentage of all PCR tests administered that were positive. Transmission rates help local authorities and agencies determine when to increase prevention measures and efforts.
Cases of COVID-19 have increased significantly throughout Virginia and BRHD over the past week. More than 90% of cases are the highly contagious Delta variant. We encourage everyone to wear masks in all indoor public settings and to get vaccinated. It’s not too late to get a COVID shot -- we have a number of free clinics throughout the District that can be found on our website or by calling our hotline at 434-972-6261.
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COVID Vaccines: 3rd Doses & Booster Shots |
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The FDA and CDC ACIP recently approved a 3rd dose of COVID-19 vaccines for people who are moderately to severely immunocompromised that received an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna). BRHD is now offering 3rd doses to individuals who are moderately to severely immunocompromised, which includes people who have:
- Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood
- Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system
- Received a stem cell transplant within the last 2 years or are taking medicine to suppress the immune system
- Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome)
- Advanced or untreated HIV infection
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Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress your immune response
If possible, talk to a healthcare provider about your medical condition and whether getting an additional dose is appropriate for you.
The FDA has only approved 3rd doses for immunocompromised people at this time. 3rd doses of COVID vaccines should be the same manufacturer (Pfizer for ages 12+ or Moderna for ages 18+) as the previous two doses when possible, but this is not required. 3rd doses are not approved for individuals who received Johnson & Johnson vaccines.
Immunocompromised? Here’s how to get a 3rd Dose:
3rd doses through BRHD are by appointment only which can be found online at BlueRidgeHD.org or calling our hotline at 434-972-6261.
BRHD will administer 3rd doses by appointment only at local health departments, J. Crew at Fashion Square Mall, Mobi on the Mall, and through homebound services. Local primary care providers and some pharmacies will offer 3rd dose vaccines as well. We will not require a patient’s medical records when administering a third dose.
3rd Dose vs. Booster
Although the vaccine (ingredients) is the same for 1st, 2nd, 3rd dose, and boosters, it is the intent and timing that makes a 3rd dose different from a booster. Third doses are given to improve immunocompromised people’s immune response to the 1st and 2nd doses, administered 28 days from the 2nd dose. Boosters are given to people after immunity wanes over time (to boost immunity), and thus administered 8 months or later than the 2nd dose.
We will provide updates on COVID-19 booster doses for the general public when available. If FDA and CDC ACIP recommend them for the general public, we anticipate the rollout of booster shots will take place over the next several months.
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COVID-19 Testing: Increasing Testing Sites & Expanding Age Limit |
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To meet local demand, BRHD and UVA Health now offer free COVID-19 PCR tests in the greater Charlottesville/Albemarle area five days a week. UVA Health hosts Monday nights at The Church of the Incarnation, and Tuesdays at Mt. Zion African Baptist Church. BRHD will now hosts testing every Wednesday through Friday outside of at JCPenney at Fashion Square Mall.
Additionally, we’re hosting testing one day a week at our local health departments throughout the District, 5:00-7:00pm.
All tests are FREE and weather dependent. Results distributed online through UVA’s MyChart medical record system. Negative results are NOT called by either UVA or BRHD. Check out our testing page for updated information and schedules.
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BRHD is hiring passionate community health nurses who want to work with diverse community members in places where they live, work, play, and pray. With upcoming booster shots approaching, it’s important that BRHD has more nurses on-board to help vaccinate. Job duties include administering vaccines, educating people about COVID-19, and supporting individuals in their decision to get a COVID vaccine. Hours are in the field (generally outside), evenings and weekends and range from 24-30 with pay at $34/hr. Apply to join BRHD’s COVID-19 response team here.
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Containment Team Shout Out: N95 Fit Testing |
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For nearly a year and a half, the BRHD Containment Team, made up of Contact Tracers and Case Investigators, has worked hard to prevent the spread of COVID throughout the community. The team contacts people who test positive for COVID, as well as those who are close contacts, and provides information on quarantine, isolation, vaccination, community resources, and other guidelines to keep COVID from spreading. While they have mostly worked in the office and remotely, you might see some of the team at BRHD events throughout the community
Here, a few members of the team are getting fit tested for their N95 masks - making sure they get the right size for the right fit! Ensuring a proper fit for these masks means the team will be best protected while assisting at specific community events, including vaccination and testing efforts.
We are so thankful for the BRHD Containment Team and all the efforts they put into keeping our community safe!
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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 Davina Jackson, BRHD Covid Epi Team Case Investigator.
How long have you been at BRHD?
Since July 2020
What is your job?
I investigate and trace positive Covid reports to document the spread of the pandemic in the state of Virginia.
Who are you outside of BRHD?
I have a background in education and healthcare. Before I came to BRHD I was a teacher and a nurse. I am a professional singer who has toured with the Wailers and enjoy contributing my talent with many local artists and bands in my district. My favorite thing to do for fun is to perform live music with my band Wild Common and miss it very much due to the pandemic. I love collecting elephants and I enjoy cooking for my friends and family.
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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.
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