Each week, we'll present a snapshot of the District's 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.
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Yesterday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommended administering boosters of Pfizer or Moderna vaccines for immunocompromised individuals. Today, the Centers for Disease Control Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted on and accepted that recommendation.
Before BRHD can administer boosters locally, ACIP's guidance must be sent to the CDC for official approval. While we await that announcement and the OK to give third doses, you can connect any 12-and-up friend or family member who needs their first dose to one of our vaccination clinics.
We have two new weekly vaccine events in Charlottesville: "Mobi on the Mall" at the Downtown Mall pavilion, Mondays from 1:00-3:00 p.m.; and Healthy Thursdays, 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at A Cut Above the Rest barbershop in the Cherry Avenue Shopping Center. We also offer COVID-19 vaccinations at all of our Health Departments as well as homebound vaccinations throughout the District. Check out this week's vaccination schedule at BlueRidgeHD.org
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Virginia School Update: Masks a Must |
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This week, Governor Northam announced the State Health Commissioner’s Order of Public Health Emergency regarding universal masking in K-12 schools. This order requires all students, teachers, staff, and visitors in K-12 schools to wear masks indoors, regardless of vaccination status. It reinforces the current Virginia state law (Senate Bill 1303), which requires Virginia schools to adhere to mitigation strategies outlined by the CDC. As of July 28, CDC guidelines include universal masking for all students, teachers, and staff.
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A Better Way for Referrals: Unite Virginia |
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Attention BRHD Organizations: Have you ever needed to make a referral for services? Have you ever wanted to connect your clients to resources in the area? We're excited to announce that Unite Virginia, in partnership with the Blue Ridge Health District, will be launching in our area on September 21!
You're invited to attend a special information session on Tuesday, August 17 at 10:00 a.m. This information session will be co-hosted with the Unite Us team, to learn more about the new integrated coordinated care network. This platform will allow organizations to connect online by sending and receiving referrals for individuals in our communities who need access to resources. Let's continue on the journey to address health inequities in our community, together.
Register here to sign up and attend this free, virtual information session.
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COVID Tests: Results Available on MyChart |
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Starting today, Friday August 13, BRHD will call only those individuals with positive COVID-19 results. We will no longer call individuals who test negative at BRHD testing sites. Anyone who gets tested at a BRHD site and does not hear from the results team in 4 calendar days should proceed as negative.
BRHD is using the UVA lab, a OneLab participant, for testing. Therefore, all results will be shared via UVA MyChart accounts. Anyone seeking documentation of test results with BRHD will use MyChart for documentation. Those who receive medical care at another provider outside of UVA may still set up a MyChart account.
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Yancey Community Health Clinic: August 19 |
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In September of 2019, the Blue Ridge Health District established The Yancey Community Health Clinic. This site, located in the Yancey School Community Center in Esmont, ensures a range of public health services are available to the local community and surrounding areas. It is with great excitement that BRHD has resumed its services at the Yancey Community Health Clinic.
Our Yancey Community Health Center will hold its monthly clinic on Thursday, August 19, from 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. During this clinic, Family Planning & Sexual Health services will be available 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. and free COVID vaccines will be administered from 12:30 - 3:00 p.m.
Registration is required for any service offered. Appointments can be made by calling 434-270-3216
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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 Becca Hanley, BRHD’s Nutritionist Supervisor Senior/WIC Coordinator.
How long have you been at BRHD?
4 years
What is your job?
I am responsible for planning, implementing, supervising, and providing nutrition services for the district for the WIC Program. I work to be sure the WIC Program operates in compliance with State and Federal standards, policies, and guidelines, and also serve as the sole district WIC and nutrition services supervisor.
Who are you outside of BRHD?
I enjoy spending time with my dog and family and being outside. I worked as a Nutritionist for Rappahannock Area Health District before coming to BRHD. Before that, I was completing my Masters at the University of Kentucky.
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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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