Hotter and more humid conditions are expected Friday through this weekend in Virginia, with temperatures climbing into the mid to upper 90s and heat index values in the upper 90s to lower 100s.

The National Weather Service (NWS) predicts many locations in Virginia will experience heat in the Red (Major) category. This level of heat affects anyone without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration.

Heat related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this fact, approximately 1,220 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year.

CDC’s website offers hot weather tips, signs of heat-related illness, FAQs, social media resources, + resources for health professionals.

Stay safe!

 

Don’t wait to get your child’s physical and vaccinations! Join us on Saturday, July 13th from 12-5pm at First Baptist Church Campostella.

The Norfolk Public Health Department clinic offers Sexual Health Services. These services include prevention education, testing and treatment for STIs, and counseling.

Test & Go (Free STI Testing)
Our clinic is open every Tuesday from 1pm- 3pm and 4:30pm -6:30pm for quick 15-minute STI tests. No appointment necessary. (must have no symptoms)

All are welcome and the tests are free!

We will see you today at the clinic 830 Southhampton Avenue Norfolk, VA 23510.

Or to make an appointment at our clinic, please call: 757-683-2735

The Norfolk Department of Public Health has issued Swimming Advisories for two Ocean View Beaches: Captain’s Quarters and 5^th Bay Beach.  Water testing conducted yesterday revealed enterococci bacteria levels at these sites exceeding State Water Quality Standards. Signs have been posted to alert the public of these advisories. Health officials will continue testing beach water and will remove posted signs and notify the public when the bacteria levels decrease to meet state standards.

The Environmental Health Division of the Norfolk Department of Public Health samples Ocean View beach water on a weekly basis, during the swimming season, from late-May through mid-September. Enterococci bacteria are a group of indicator organisms used to determine the extent of fecal contamination in recreational waters.

While enterococci bacteria do not generally cause illness, scientific studies indicate that their presence is closely correlated to the presence of other disease-causing organisms. People swimming or playing in waters with bacteria levels higher than the state standards have an increased risk of developing gastrointestinal illness.

For further information, call the Environmental Health Division, Norfolk Department of Public Health, at 757-683-2712.  For information about the Virginia Department of Health’s Beach Monitoring Program, current swimming advisory maps, and helpful tips about recreational water safety, please visit: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/waterborne-hazards-control/beach-monitoring/

We offer school shots to children that live in the city of Norfolk.  We help your children get the shots they need for school. Kids must get some shots for both public and private schools. Be sure your child is up-to-date and can start school on time!

*You must bring your child’s latest shot records to the clinic.

Please call the Norfolk Health Department to schedule an appointment at 757-683-2735 or if you have any questions.

• Monday, July 22nd – 9 am to 6 pm
• Wednesday, July 24th – 9 am to 6 pm
• Friday, July 26th – 9 am to 4 pm
• Monday, July 29th – 9 am to 6 pm
• Wednesday, July 31st – 9 am to 6 pm
• Friday, August 2nd – 9 am to 4 pm
• Monday, August 5th – 9 am to 6 pm
• Wednesday, August 7th – 9 am to 6 pm
• Monday, August 12th – 9 am to 6 pm
• Wednesday, August 14th – 9 am to 6 pm
• Friday, August 16th – 9 am to 4 pm
• Monday, August 19th – 9 am to 6 pm
• Wednesday, August 21st – 9 am to 6 pm
• Friday, August 23rd – 9 am to 4 pm
• Monday, August 26th – 9 am to 4 pm
• Wednesday, August 28th – 9 am to 4 pm

• Saturday, August 10th – 10 am to 2 pm

What is mpox?
Mpox is a contagious rash illness caused by the mpox virus. Mpox can cause a range of symptoms. Some people have mild symptoms, while others can develop serious symptoms and need care in a healthcare facility. Those at higher risk for severe disease or complications include people who are pregnant, children, and people with weakened immune systems.

In the 2022 outbreak, cases have occurred in many countries or areas where this infection was not usually found, including in the U.S. and Virginia. The number of cases has declined since August 2022, but cases continue to occur in the U.S. The mpox outbreak is not over yet. Most, but not all, cases have been in gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men. This group, particularly those with multiple sex partners, is currently at greatest risk.

How is mpox spread?

In this outbreak, most people have become infected with mpox when they come into close contact with an infected person. Spread can occur from touching skin lesions, bodily fluids, or clothing or linens that have been in contact with an infected person. Spread can also occur during prolonged, face-to-face contact. Some people can spread mpox to others from one to four days before their symptoms start.

Mpox can spread from person to person through:
• Sexual or intimate contact (including oral, anal, and vaginal sex)
• Hugging, kissing, cuddling, and massage
• Sharing a bed, towel, or clothes that have not been washed

Mpox does not spread from person to person through:
• Casual conversation with someone who is infected
• Walking by someone who is infected

What are symptoms of mpox?

Skin rash on any part of your body (even if it is only 1 or 2 spots); for some people, this rash may be
their only symptom

You may experience all or only a few symptoms.
Symptoms usually appear within 3 weeks after exposure.

Two doses of the #mpox vaccine are the best protection. 

Even if you got your first dose a long time ago, you can still get the second dose. Mpox vaccines are available now for free at your local health department. Find a local health department near you: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/health-department-locator/

What do I do if I have symptoms?

If you have symptoms, you should separate yourself from other people and pets, cover your rash, and contact your healthcare provider. It is important to call ahead before going to a healthcare facility and let them know that you are concerned about mpox. You should avoid close physical contact with others until you have talked with your provider.

How can mpox be prevented?

Get Vaccinated. The two-dose mpox vaccine is recommended for people with known exposure to someone with mpox or those at high risk of exposure. For the most protection, it is important to get both doses of the vaccine. To see if you are eligible for vaccination, visit CDC’s mpox webpage. If you are eligible visit the CDC vaccine finder.

Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with another person’s rash or scabs. Avoid kissing, hugging, cuddling or having sex with someone who is infected. Do not share eating utensils and cups. Do not share bedding, towels, or personal grooming devices.

Wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after contact with infected individuals.

Wear a mask if you think you have mpox and need to have close face-to-face contact with other people or need to have close contact with someone who may be infected.

Consider the events you attend and your behavior at those events. If there is close, prolonged skin-to-skin contact, the risk of spreading mpox is higher.

Treatment for mpox

Antivirals, such as tecovirimat (TPOXX), may be recommended for people who are more likely to get severely ill, like those with weakened immune systems. Talk to your healthcare provider about treatment or look into the Study of Tecovirimat (TPOXX) for Human Monkeypox Virus (STOMP) trial which offers free treatment and people can participate in the trial remotely. Those diagnosed with mpox may also need treatment for symptoms such as pain, itching, nausea and vomiting.

Where can I get more information about mpox?

VDH website www.vdh.virginia.gov/mpox

Did you know? Anyone having sex can get an STI. Many STIs have no symptoms. The only way you can be sure of your status is to Get Yourself Tested. All STIs can be treated, and some can be cured. This STI Awareness Week, know your STI care options and Get Yourself Tested!

The Norfolk Public Health Department clinic offers Sexual Health Services. These services include prevention education, testing and treatment for STIs, and counseling.

Test & Go
Our clinic is open every Tuesday from 1pm- 3pm and 4:30pm -6:30pm. You can get a quick appointment for 15-minute STI tests. No appointment necessary. (must have no symptoms)

All are welcome and the tests are free!

Or to make an appointment at our clinic, please call: 757-683-2735.

You have the power to protect your child.

Provide your children with safe and long-lasting protection against measles by making sure they get the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine according to CDC’s recommended immunization schedule.