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Virginia Public Health Updates
Yesterday, the Commonwealth of Virginia announced that we have officially joined the Northeast Public Health Collaborative (NEPHC)! The Northeast Public Health Collaborative is a voluntary regional coalition of public health agencies and leaders joining forces to:
- Share expertise
- Improve coordination
- Enhance capacity
- Strengthen regional readiness
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Promote and protect evidence-based public health
VA’s Top Baby Names of 2025
Have you heard? The Virginia Department of Health's Office of Vital Records just published a list of the most popular baby names given to Virginia infants in 2025!
Liam and Charlotte continue to hold their reign as Virginia’s most popular baby names in 2025, just as they did in 2024. Liam remains the top choice for boys, while Charlotte keeps its crown as the most popular name for girls for the third year in a row!
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Quit Smoking Blue Ridge Class
Mark your calendars - the Quit Nicotine/Smoking Blue Ridge Program will be back this spring!
Starting March 18, this six-week class will take place virtually via Zoom on Wednesday evenings from 5:30 to 6:30 PM through April 22. This program is free and open to anyone living in the Blue Ridge Health District (including the City of Charlottesville and the Counties of Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, & Nelson).
From free nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) to acupuncture and nutrition education, this class has a variety of strategies to help you find what works best! You'll also get to hear from former smokers/nicotine users who have successfully quit and want to help others do the same.
Not quite ready to quit yet? You're still invited to join! Even if you're not 100% ready to quit, this class can help you learn more about what quitting looks and feels like so you're better prepared for your next attempt.
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Why does septic system maintenance matter?
Septic systems safely treat household wastewater. Without regular care they can fail early, causing sewage backups, costly repairs, and contamination of soil and groundwater that can threaten drinking water, the environment, and public health.
Why is regular maintenance important?
Regular maintenance helps homeowners avoid emergencies, save money, and protect environmental and public health. Virginia law requires alternative onsite septic system owners to have their systems inspected and properly maintained through annual licensed-operator inspections and routine pumping to prevent failures, protect public health, and ensure compliance with state standards.
How does a septic system work?
Conventional systems use a tank where solids settle and bacteria break down waste, then liquid moves to the drain field to be filtered through soil. Alternative systems serve sites where conventional systems won’t work, such as properties with poor soil, steep slopes and/or lack of space.
What steps are needed for regular maintenance?
- Have the septic tank pumped and inspected by a licensed professional every three to five years
- Use water-saving fixtures and fix leaks quickly
- Flush only human waste and toilet paper
- Keep grease, chemicals, and medications out of drains
- Use septic-safe cleaning products
For more information:
vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-health/onsite-sewage-system-owner-responsibilities/
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To read past publications, visit the BRHD Health Whys webpage.
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- Friday, March 27 - BRHD opening late at 1:30 PM
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 Monthly Test & Go Event
Free walk-in STI testing on a first come, first served basis until we reach capacity. No insurance needed. Call 434-972-6269 for more information.
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3rd Tuesday of the month: March 17 from 4:30 to 6 PM at the Charlottesville/Albemarle Health Department (1138 Rose Hill Dr., Charlottesville, VA)
Monthly Community Health Worker (CHW) Office Hours
Walk-in one-on-one sessions hosted in Albemarle County. All are welcome. Visit the Community Health Worker webpage for more information or call 434-270-3216.
- Thursdays, March 12, 19, & 26 from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Yancey Community Health Center (7625 Porters Rd., Esmont, VA)
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