Stay Safe and Protect Against Respiratory Viruses Amid Rising Cases

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Last Updated: January 8, 2025

NORFOLK, Va. – As Virginia experiences an increase in respiratory virus activity, the Norfolk Department of Public Health (NDPH) urges residents to take preventive measures to protect themselves and others from COVID-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). With respiratory illness rates typically peaking between December and February, now is the time for Virginians to stay informed and act to reduce their risk of severe illness.

Upcoming Vaccination Clinics:

  • NDPH is hosting a mobile immunization clinic at the Richard A. Tucker Library (2350 Berkley Ave, 23523) on Saturday, January 11th from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome, no appointment necessary.
  • NDPH offers a weekly COVID-19 and flu clinic, providing essential vaccination services to the community every Thursday from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. until February 27, 2025 (excluding the third Thursday of the month). Everyone is welcome, no appointment necessary.
  • To schedule an immunization appointment, please call (757) 683-2735.

Respiratory viruses are common during the fall and winter months, but vaccination and proactive health measures can significantly reduce their impact. NDPH emphasizes that staying up to date on COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccinations is the most effective way to protect against these illnesses. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene practices, staying home when sick, and improving indoor ventilation can help prevent the spread of these viruses.

Main Prevention and Health Recommendations:

  • Vaccines: The updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 and flu vaccines are now available and highly recommended for everyone six months and older. For individuals at higher risk, such as those aged 65 and older or those with underlying health conditions, vaccination is especially critical. RSV vaccines are also available for certain vulnerable populations, including older adults and infants.
  • Good Hygiene: Virginians are urged to wash hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, and avoid touching their face with unwashed hands. Improving ventilation and cleaning frequently touched surfaces can also reduce the risk of transmission.
  • Testing and Treatment: At-home tests for COVID-19 and flu are widely available, and Virginians are encouraged to use them if they exhibit symptoms. Individuals who test positive should contact their healthcare provider to determine if antiviral treatments are necessary. Early treatment is critical to reducing the risk of severe illness.
  • Stay Home When Sick: Individuals showing symptoms of a respiratory illness should stay home until they are symptom-free for at least 24 hours and have no fever, even if they are no longer using fever-reducing medications.

Current Respiratory Virus Trends in Virginia:

While the overall respiratory illness activity in Virginia is currently moderate, COVID-19, flu, and RSV cases are on the rise. NDPH continues to monitor these trends and advises the public to remain vigilant, as respiratory illness activity is expected to increase over the coming weeks.

Key Points on COVID-19, Flu, and RSV:

  • COVID-19: The updated 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccines are critical for reducing severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Those at higher risk for complications should seek testing and early treatment.
  • Flu: Flu vaccination remains a vital tool in preventing serious illness, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and young children. The flu vaccine reduces the likelihood of severe disease and hospitalizations.
  • RSV: While most RSV cases resolve on their own, it can lead to serious complications in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Vaccines are available for at-risk populations to help prevent severe disease.

Additional Resources:

The Norfolk Department of Public Health remains committed to providing resources to support public health and help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. For further information, including testing locations and vaccination centers, visit NorfolkPublicHealth.com.