BRHD Data Update
We continue to see a slow rise in new cases of COVID-19 across the Blue Ridge Health District (BRHD). This increase in new cases is mostly from outbreaks in workplace settings, social gatherings, and pre-K and school settings. All of our localities are currently experiencing high levels of community transmission so we encourage everyone to be cautious with holiday celebrations.

As the Omicron variant continues to spread quickly, we encourage everyone to get a COVID-19 vaccine to prevent severe illness and disease. BRHD test sites are now testing all COVID-19 test samples for the Omicron variant, as we know it is already in our Region. Studies from South Africa show that Omicron spreads twice as fast as the Delta variant and, unfortunately, we expect Omicron to surpass Delta cases this winter both nationally and locally. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) predicts a surge in January and it is crucial that you know where to get tested and how to spend the holidays safely – read more below on these topics.
VDH Statement on mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines
over Johnson & Johnson
On December 16, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced a preferential recommendation of mRNA vaccines over the Johnson & Johnson (J&J)/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine for people ages 18 years and older. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is adopting this recommendation immediately. Read VDH’s statement on Johnson & Johnson here.

Starting today, December 17, 2021, BRHD will only offer Johnson & Johnson (J&J) first dose vaccines at local health departments; Johnson and Johnson boosters will not be available. We will no longer offer J&J first doses or boosters at community-based and mobile vaccine clinics. We recommend individuals receive an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna), but will continue to offer Johnson & Johnson first dose vaccines at health departments only until our supply runs out.

For individuals who prefer to get a Johnson & Johnson vaccine (first dose or booster shot), J&J vaccines will still be available at the Community Vaccination Center at Seminole Square. Schedule a vaccine appointment here.
Holiday Hours at BRHD and Community Vaccination Center (CVC) at Seminole Square
In observance of the holidays ahead, both BRHD and the Community Vaccination Center (CVC) at Seminole Square will operate under altered hours. If you have any questions about hours or services available, please call the BRHD Hotline at 434-972-6261.
New PCR Testing Center at Seminole Square
For those looking for more testing options, there is a new resource! Test Here is located in Seminole Square on the other side of Marshalls from our Community Vax Center (Address: 381 Hillsdale Dr., Charlottesville, VA 22901).
 
Services & Pricing:
  • Rapid test - $95
  • COVID/Flu combo test - $125
  • Next Day PCR - $165 (not available on Saturdays)
  • Same Day PCR (Accula) - $245
  • Antibody test - $45
  • Strep test coming soon
  • Note: Test Here is able to bill rapid tests and antibody tests to insurance, depending on whether the patient is symptomatic or has had an exposure. When they are not able to bill insurance, patients are provided with all forms needed to submit to their insurance companies for reimbursement. For patients without insurance who are symptomatic or have had an exposure, or for the uninsured wishing to check for antibodies, they can bill to the HRSA fund (government funding) at no cost to them.

Hours of operation:
  • Monday-Friday 12pm-7pm
  • Saturday 9am-2pm
  • Christmas Eve: 7:30am-11am (no next day PCRs)
  • Christmas Day: Closed
  • New Years Eve: 7:30am-11am (no next day PCRs)
  • New Years Day: Closed 

This testing location is not affiliated with the Blue Ridge Health District. For more information, visit the Test Here website.
Free Narcan in Charlottesville/Albemarle and
Nelson County Health Departments
BRHD will provide free Narcan at two drive-thru events next week:
  • Monday, December 20, 3:00-4:00pm: Charlottesville/Albemarle Health Department (1138 Rose Hill Drive, Charlottesville)
  • Tuesday, December 21, 3:00-4:00pm: Nelson County Health Department (4038 Thomas Nelson Highway, Arrington)
 
Individuals are trained on how to identify an overdose and properly administer Narcan, a nasal spray used to treat opioid overdoses in an emergency situation. In addition to Narcan, rapid in-home HIV test kits, condoms, lube, and more are provided for FREE.
 
Appointments and IDs are not required. For more information, call 434-484-0255.
Holiday Safety Reminders
As we look toward the last two weeks of 2021, there are sure to be many great holiday traditions filling our hearts and homes with joy. While we celebrate with those we love the most, it is important to remember that COVID-19 cases are on the rise and new infections can still lead to severe complications and even death, especially for those who are not yet vaccinated. 

This holiday season, there are five simple things we can all do to ensure we and our loved ones are as safe and healthy as possible:
  • Get vaccinated or boosted, if able - we know that vaccines are safe, effective, and the best tool we have to stay safe and healthy.
  • Follow local and state guidelines - it is important to know the latest transmission rates, as well as expectations and safety orders for our destinations. Plan ahead and be prepared.
  • Take precautions indoors - when indoors, mask up. This is especially important in areas where distancing is not possible or where we are in closer proximity to people outside of our social bubble, such as airports, gas stations, and rest stops.
  • Choose outdoors when possible - when possible, choose outdoor spaces for activities like eating, visiting, and interacting with others.
  • Stay home if you are feeling sick - If you are feeling unwell, the safest action would be to stay home. If you or someone in your household is sick, consider postponing any gatherings or opting for virtual visits instead.
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 Yevette Bradley, BRHD Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator.
 
How long have you been at BRHD?
Since August 2, 2020
 
What is your job?
I am responsible for deploying Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) volunteers to various sites throughout the district to help with the fight against COVID-19. This job is exciting due to sending out alerts every week and seeing the responses from the volunteers. It's like working a puzzle by placing the MRC volunteers within the BRHD to help complete our missions. I am truly amazed at the dedication they show every week in helping BRHD in so many ways, such as vaccinating, offering general support, clinic registration, medical observation, and many more areas that require assistance.
  
Who are you outside of BRHD?
I like to travel with my husband to any and everywhere. We keep a "go bag" for spur of the moment travel on the weekends. Since COVID, we have curtailed the travel except to see the 3 grandsons in Ohio. 

In my previous chapter, I was a engineer which required me to travel to various work sites (including military ships at port) to oversee the installation and commissioning of electronic equipment for the detection of refrigeration gases. 

My favorite hobby is home improvement projects, such as when I laid a cement patio at my house. My husband and I are Marines… but fun fact: I out-ranked all of the male marines in our families!
Next Week's COVID Testing
Due to the holiday, testing resources for next week (December 20-24) will be impacted slightly. Please see below for the COVID testing options offered prior to the holiday weekend:

Monday, December 20, 2021 – 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm (Hosted by UVA Health)
  • Church of the Incarnation, 1465 Incarnation Dr., Charlottesville, Va.
  • Drive-through and walk-up COVID-19 testing for people over the age of 6 months. No appointment needed.

Monday, December 20, 2021 – 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm (Hosted by Next Molecular)
  • Fashion Square Mall, JC Penney Parking Lot, 1600 Rio Road, Charlottesville, Va.
  • Walk-ins are currently available for this site.

Monday, December 20, 2021 – 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
  • Greene County Health Department, 50 Stanard Street, Standardsville, Va.
  • Register online here. Walk-ins are available.

Tuesday December 21, 2021 – 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm (Hosted by UVA Health)
  • Mount Zion First African Baptist Church, 105 Lankford Ave. Charlottesville, Va.
  • Drive-through and walk-up COVID-19 testing for people over the age of 6 months. No appointment needed.

Tuesday, December 21, 2021 – 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm (Hosted by Next Molecular) 
  • Fashion Square Mall, JC Penney Parking Lot, 1600 Rio Road, Charlottesville, Va.
  • To register call 434-972-6261 on 12/20. Walk-ins are available.

Tuesday, December 21, 2021 – 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
  • Louisa County Health Department, 540 Industrial Drive, Louisa, VA
  • Register online here. Walk-ins are available.

Wednesday, December 22, 2021 – 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm (Hosted by Next Molecular)
  • Fashion Square Mall, JC Penney Parking Lot, 1600 Rio Road, Charlottesville, Va.
  • To register call 434-972-6261 on 12/20 and 12/21. Walk-ins are available.

Thursday, December 23, 2021 – 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm (Hosted by Next Molecular)
  • Fashion Square Mall, JC Penney Parking Lot, 1600 Rio Road, Charlottesville, Va.
  • To register call 434-972-6261 on 12/21 and 12/22. Walk-ins are available.

For additional testing resources in BRHD, visit our testing webpage.
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.