Memorial Day: BRHD Offices Closed
In observance of Memorial Day, all Blue Ridge Health District vaccine sites and offices will be closed on Monday, May 31

We will resume normal operations on Tuesday, June 1.

We are thankful for those who have sacrificed their lives to protect America. 
June: Kickoff Summer with Vaccinations
BRHD has a stable supply of vaccines and will continue to offer them by appointment and as walk-ins at all our clinics throughout the District. In addition to BRHD clinics, there are a number of community partners, pharmacies, and providers who are offering free COVID-19 vaccines. 

Anyone 12+ qualifies for a vaccine and can schedule appointments one of three ways:
  • To schedule an appointment with BRHD online, use our online scheduling portal.
  • To schedule an appointment with BRHD over the phone, call the BRHD Hotline Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm: 434-972-6261
  • To find vaccines at any other community partner location, visit vaccines.gov.

Remember: anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult to sign a vaccine consent at both first and second dose appointments.
Executive Order 79:
Distancing and Capacity Limits Lifted
Governor Northam’s Executive Order 79 became effective today, May 28, 2021. As of 12:01am, all distancing and capacity restrictions are lifted in Virginia. 

The only mask “mandate” that remains in Executive Order 79 pertains to K-12 schools: Masks must be worn by all students, faculty, staff, and visitors (regardless of vaccination status) in public and private K-12 indoor school settings. This mandate includes activities such as voting and attending performances. While outside on school property, students, teachers, staff, and visitors may remove their masks if fully vaccinated, and individuals who are not fully vaccinated may remove them outside if they can maintain at least six feet distance. 

Individuals who are not yet fully vaccinated should continue to wear masks and remain physically distanced in most settings. Individuals who are fully vaccinated may remove their masks in most settings. Businesses may still require a mask, so if you are somewhere that requires it, please oblige. Regardless of vaccination status, individuals must also continue to wear a mask while accessing public transportation, per a federal requirement.
Your Own Home: Another Place to Vaccinate
Through a partnership with Charlottesville Fire Department and UVA Health, BRHD is able to provide COVID-19 vaccinations in the homes of those who cannot access our vaccination sites.

We have directed our efforts at homebound patients and those who have medical and mobility challenges, or other barriers to travel. So far, 175 vaccines have been administered at home. As an added bonus: Firefighter Mark checks, replaces, and installs smoke detectors while the nurse completes the vaccination!
 
If you have patients or clients who are in need of at-home vaccination, email us at brhealthdistrict@gmail.com or call 434-972-6261.
Meet the BRHD Team
Each week, we will 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 Veronica Vera, a BRHD COVID Hotline Operator!

How long have you worked at BRHD?
I started working here in March 2021.

What does your job include?
I am an operator on the COVID-19 hotline. I help people sign up for vaccines, register for COVID testing, and answer any questions they might have about COVID-19. One of my favorite parts of the job is helping people who speak Spanish that might be worried or confused. I am a native Spanish speaker and it feels very rewarding to be able to help my own community stay healthy and informed!  

Who are you outside of BRHD?
I used to work for UVA as an OR Scheduling Coordinator for the Pediatrics Cardiology Department. I am a native of Argentina who enjoys baking cakes and cupcakes. I also love spending time with my family, grilling, and playing games outside.
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 if you're unvaccinated, maintain physical distance, wash hands frequently and properly, and limit indoor social gatherings with those who are unvaccinated.