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All PWHD offices and clinics are closed starting Wednesday, December 24 at 12:00 p.m. - Friday, December 26 (Day after Christmas).
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World AIDS Day is observed every year on December 1 to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS, support people living with HIV, and remember those who have lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses.
Today, more than 40 million people around the world are living with HIV. Thanks to medical advances, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives but only if they have access to testing, treatment, and support. Unfortunately, many communities still face barriers like stigma, discrimination, and lack of healthcare access.
Here’s how you can help:
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Get tested and know your HIV status.
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Support equal access to healthcare for everyone, especially those most at risk.
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Learn the facts about HIV to help reduce stigma and misinformation.
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Encourage others to get tested and seek care if needed.
📌Read more about World Aids Day and the status of HIV in our state on the Virginia Department of Health's latest blog post.
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Winter weather can be dangerous, so it’s important to know what to expect and how to stay safe. The National Weather Service (NWS) uses specific terms to alert the public to be prepared or take action!
Be Prepared
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Winter Storm Watch: Heavy snow, sleet, or freezing rain is possible. Be prepared to adjust travel plans in case a Warning is issued.
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Extreme Cold Watch: Dangerously cold air, with or without wind, is possible. Check the forecast and be prepared in case a Warning is issued.
Take Action
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Winter Storm Warning: Heavy snow, sleet, or freezing rain is expected. Travel will become dangerous. Delay or adjust travel plans until conditions improve.
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Extreme Cold Warning: Extremely cold temperatures with or without wind are expected. Conditions could lead to frostbite or hypothermia. Limit time outside, dress in layers, and cover up exposed skin.
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Winter Weather Advisory: Snow, freezing rain, or sleet is expected and could make travel difficult or dangerous. If you're not careful, these conditions could become life-threatening.
Tips to Stay Safe:
📌Visit the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) website for more winter safety tips and resources.
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National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) is a reminder that it’s not too late to get your flu shot. As long as flu viruses are spreading, getting vaccinated can help protect you and those around you by reducing the risk of serious complications like hospitalization or death.
Fall and winter are peak times for respiratory illnesses like the flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumonia. Even if you feel healthy, you can still spread these illnesses to others, especially those at higher risk, like older adults, young children, and people with chronic conditions.
Here’s how to stay healthy this season:
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Get vaccinated: Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu shot each year. Ask your healthcare provider if you also need updated COVID-19, RSV, or pneumonia vaccines.
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Practice healthy habits: Wash your hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, and stay home if you’re sick.
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Know the symptoms: Fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue are common signs of respiratory illness. If you feel sick, contact a healthcare provider quickly.
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Ask about antivirals: If you get sick, medications may help you recover faster and avoid serious illness. These work best when started early, so don’t wait to reach out to a healthcare provider.
📌The Virginia Department of Health's Vaccine Provider Locater makes it easier to look for a provider for children without health insurance or who are on Medicaid and adults without health insurance.
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The holiday season can bring joy, but it can also bring stress, loneliness, or grief. Many people feel overwhelmed by busy schedules, financial pressure, or missing loved ones. These feelings are normal, and you’re not alone.
Here are a few ways to care for your mental health this season:
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Acknowledge your feelings. It’s okay to feel sad, lonely, or anxious—even during the holidays.
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Set realistic expectations. You don’t have to do everything or make everything perfect.
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Take breaks. Make time for rest, fresh air, or quiet moments.
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Stay connected. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups, even a short conversation can help.
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Limit alcohol and sugar. These can affect your mood and energy levels.
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Seek help if needed. If feelings of sadness or stress don’t go away, talk to a healthcare provider.
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Help is here for you
If you’re struggling, you can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline anytime for free, confidential support.
Remember taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
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Do you know a current or recent college student interested in gaining hands-on public health experience? The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Internship Academy will begin accepting applications starting December 19, 2025 - January 31, 2026.
Mark your calendar and prepare to apply once the application portal opens!
📌 More information: VDH Internship Academy – Human Resources
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