{"id":18733,"date":"2026-06-26T15:29:17","date_gmt":"2026-06-26T19:29:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/?page_id=18733"},"modified":"2026-07-02T18:11:28","modified_gmt":"2026-07-02T22:11:28","slug":"media-update","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/media-update\/","title":{"rendered":"VDH Media Update"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"pl-18733\"  class=\"panel-layout\" ><div id=\"pg-18733-0\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-18733-0-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-18733-0-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>Our media updates provide timely information on public health issues affecting communities across the Commonwealth, including disease trends, prevention guidance, safety advisories, and community resources. VDH strives to keep media partners and the public informed about emerging health concerns, response efforts, and actions Virginians can take to protect their health.<\/p>\n<h2>In This Update - July 2, 2026<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#1\">Measles<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#2\">Heat Safety<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#3\">Firework Safety<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#4\">Freshwater Safety and Algal Blooms<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-18733-1\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-18733-1-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-18733-1-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child\" data-index=\"1\" ><div id=\"1\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-18733-1-0-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<hr \/>\n<h2>Measles<\/h2>\n<h3>Update:<\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun CommentStart SCXW264992604 BCX0\">The\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is reporting\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">four<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">additional<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">\u00a0measles cases since the June\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">30<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW264992604 BCX0\" href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/measles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW264992604 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">measles dashboard<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">\u00a0update<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">. \u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">As of\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">July<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">\u00a02<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">, VDH is reporting a total of\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">145<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">\u00a0cases of measles in 2026, with 1<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">22<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264992604 BCX0\">\u00a0outbreak-associated cases.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW264992604 BCX0\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:false,&quot;134245529&quot;:false}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>VDH Response:<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"43\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">On June 25, VDH\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/public-relations-contacts\/2026-news-releases\/virginia-department-of-health-expands-measles-outbreak-area-to-include-cumberland-county\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">expanded the Buckingham County measles outbreak<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0geographically to include Cumberland County.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"43\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">VDH has one active measles outbreak in Buckingham and Cumberland counties. Piedmont Health District continues to\u00a0identify\u00a0any\u00a0additional\u00a0cases, connecting people with testing and care, holding local vaccination clinics, and providing health education to the community.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"43\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The VDH\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/measles\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">measles dashboard<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0shows key information to help Virginians see measles trends, understand the impact, and know their risk of exposure. The dashboard will be updated every Tuesday and Thursday around noon ET.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"43\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Send all questions and interview requests to Brookie Crawford at\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"mailto:brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Public Guidance:<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Measles is highly contagious and can spread to others through coughing and sneezing. Vaccination\u00a0remains\u00a0the best protection against measles.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">People who live in or visit Buckingham County, Cumberland County, and surrounding areas should talk with their healthcare provider about\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/Measles-Outbreak-Vaccine-Recommendations.pdf\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">outbreak vaccination recommendations<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, which includes considering an early MMR dose for infants older than six months to provide protection while measles is circulating in the community.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">People who are not vaccinated against measles should avoid attending large or crowded events in the Buckingham and Cumberland County area during the outbreak to protect themselves and help stop the spread of measles.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-18733-1-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"2\" ><div id=\"2\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-18733-1-0-1\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<h2>Heat Safety<\/h2>\n<h3>Update:<\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) shares heat safety tips as a prolonged period of extreme and dangerous heat\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">is<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">\u00a0set to move into Virginia later this week; lasting through the holiday weekend when many Virginians will be gathering outdoors for large and small events. Warm overnight temperatures will provide little cooling relief<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">. \u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop SCXW224699822 BCX0\"><span class=\"SCXW224699822 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><br class=\"SCXW224699822 BCX0\" \/><\/span><span class=\"LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop SCXW224699822 BCX0\"><span class=\"SCXW224699822 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><br class=\"SCXW224699822 BCX0\" \/><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">Between May 1 and June 28 this year, Virginia reported\u00a0<\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW224699822 BCX0\" href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/surveillance-and-investigation\/syndromic-surveillance\/hri-surveillance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">1,194 emergency room visits<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">\u00a0for heat-related illness, which is higher than the year-to-date average of 844 visits by this time each year.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop SCXW224699822 BCX0\"><span class=\"SCXW224699822 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><br class=\"SCXW224699822 BCX0\" \/><\/span><span class=\"LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop SCXW224699822 BCX0\"><span class=\"SCXW224699822 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><br class=\"SCXW224699822 BCX0\" \/><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">Send all questions and interview requests to Brookie Crawford at\u00a0<\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW224699822 BCX0\" href=\"mailto:brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW224699822 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop SCXW224699822 BCX0\"><span class=\"SCXW224699822 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><br class=\"SCXW224699822 BCX0\" \/><\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Public Message:<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">To keep yourself and your friends and family safe, please remember to:\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"o\" data-font=\"Courier New\" data-listid=\"39\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Courier New&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[9675],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;o&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Drink water<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">. When the temperature rises, it is important to drink plenty of water. Drinks that\u00a0contain\u00a0caffeine,\u00a0large amounts\u00a0of sugar or alcohol should be avoided because they can cause you to become dehydrated.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"o\" data-font=\"Courier New\" data-listid=\"39\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Courier New&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[9675],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;o&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Keep cool indoors<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">. On hot days, prevent illness by keeping cool indoors. If your home is not air conditioned, try to spend the hottest hours of the day in a cool public place such as a library, movie theater, or store. \u00a0Check out\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/environmental-public-health-tracking\/climate-weather\/cooling-centers\/\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">VDH\u2019s Cooling Center Map<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0to find a cooling center near you.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"o\" data-font=\"Courier New\" data-listid=\"39\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Courier New&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[9675],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;o&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Dress for the heat.<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun\u2019s energy. It is also\u00a0a good idea\u00a0to wear hats or to use an umbrella. Always apply sunscreen to exposed skin.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"o\" data-font=\"Courier New\" data-listid=\"39\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Courier New&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[9675],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;o&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Limit physical activity.<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0Avoid excessive physical exertion in hot temperatures, especially in the middle of the day. If you must work outdoors, stay hydrated by drinking 2-4 glasses of water each hour and take frequent breaks in a cool place. Even a few hours in an air-conditioned environment reduces the danger of heat-related illness.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"o\" data-font=\"Courier New\" data-listid=\"39\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Courier New&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[9675],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;o&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"5\" data-aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Do not keep children or pets in cars<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">. Temperatures inside a car with windows up can reach more 150 degrees quickly, resulting in heat stroke and death.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"o\" data-font=\"Courier New\" data-listid=\"39\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Courier New&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[9675],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;o&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"6\" data-aria-level=\"2\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Check on your neighbors<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">. Although anyone can suffer heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. People aged 65 or older are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses and complications that can result during periods of\u00a0high temperatures\u00a0and humidity.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-18733-1-0-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"3\" ><div id=\"3\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-18733-1-0-2\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<hr \/>\n<h2>Firework Safety<\/h2>\n<h3>Update:<\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">The Fourth of July is a time for fireworks, gatherings, and community celebrations.\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">The Virginia Department of<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">Health\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">(VDH)\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">is reminding residents to stay safe by using fireworks carefully and following simple safety steps. Fireworks can cause serious burns, injuries, and fires when they are not handled the right way.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop SCXW202253380 BCX0\"><span class=\"SCXW202253380 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><br class=\"SCXW202253380 BCX0\" \/><\/span><span class=\"LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop SCXW202253380 BCX0\"><span class=\"SCXW202253380 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><br class=\"SCXW202253380 BCX0\" \/><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">Firework displays in\/and around Virginia are expected to be larger this year due to the country\u2019s 250<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun Superscript SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-fontsize=\"12\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">th<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">\u00a0anniversary<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">In particular, the fireworks in the metro Wash<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">ington, D.C.\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">area\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">are expected to be 50<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">\u00a0times<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">\u00a0larger than past years.<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">\u00a0Firework displays of this\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">magnitude<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">\u00a0can significantly affect air quality.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop SCXW202253380 BCX0\"><span class=\"SCXW202253380 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><br class=\"SCXW202253380 BCX0\" \/><\/span><span class=\"LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop SCXW202253380 BCX0\"><span class=\"SCXW202253380 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><br class=\"SCXW202253380 BCX0\" \/><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">Send all questions and interview requests to Brookie Crawford at\u00a0<\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW202253380 BCX0\" href=\"mailto:brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW202253380 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202253380 BCX0\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop SCXW202253380 BCX0\"><span class=\"SCXW202253380 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><br class=\"SCXW202253380 BCX0\" \/><\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Public Message:<\/h3>\n<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Spectators<\/span><\/i><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">T<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">he safest way to enjoy fireworks is to watch public displays conducted by trained\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">professionals.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">However,\u00a0large fireworks displays, such as those expected for the 250<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">th<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0anniversary, can\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">significantly affect the air quality.\u00a0The air quality can exceed health-based air quality\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">standards provided by the\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/pm-pollution\/national-ambient-air-quality-standards-naaqs-pm\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">U.S. Environmental Protection Agency<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Spectators may be exposed to smoke, which\u00a0contains\u00a0very small\u00a0particulate matter and\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">other contaminants. Breathing air with fireworks smoke particulates in it can cause\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">coughing and other breathing problems, raised blood pressure, and increased heart rate.\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">Particulate matter levels typically return to normal by the middle of the following day,\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">but it can take longer depending on the number of fireworks used and the weather.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Non-Professional Users<\/span><\/i><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">VDH does not encourage non-professional use of fireworks. In Virginia, most consumer\u00a0<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/law.lis.virginia.gov\/vacode\/title27\/chapter9\/section27-96.1\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">fireworks are illegal<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Non-professional fireworks user safety should include wearing eye and ear protection<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"none\">and\u00a0a face mask. It is important to note weather conditions including dry conditions and\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"none\">wind, as there is always the possibility of starting a fire. People watching the fireworks\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">should\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"none\">choose a viewing location that is a safe distance away. Read the directions for the\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"none\">fireworks used and follow them carefully. State and local laws should always be <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">followed.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For more firework safety tips, visit:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/environmental-health\/2026\/07\/01\/fireworks-and-your-health\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">VDH\u2019s Fireworks and Your Health<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cpsc.gov\/Safety-Education\/Safety-Education-Centers\/Fireworks\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Fireworks | CPSC.gov<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-18733-1-0-3\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-last-child\" data-index=\"4\" ><div id=\"4\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-18733-1-0-3\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"TextRun SCXW100162056 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun CommentStart SCXW100162056 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">Freshwater<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100162056 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">\u00a0Safety and Algal Blooms<\/span><\/span><span class=\"LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop CommentStart SCXW100162056 BCX0\"><span class=\"SCXW100162056 BCX0\">\u00a0<\/span><br class=\"SCXW100162056 BCX0\" \/><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3>Update:<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is receiving\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/virginiahealth.maps.arcgis.com\/apps\/dashboards\/5336b3174db64819ad172199347cfd73\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">reports of\u00a0algal blooms<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0across the\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">state, including several\u00a0in Smith Mountain Lake.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559731&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Algae blooms can occur when warm water and nutrients combine to make conditions\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">favorable for algae growth. Most algae species are harmless. However, some species may\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">produce irritating compounds or toxins.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The\u00a0Virginia\u00a0Department of Environmental Quality is conducting sampling\u00a0at Smith\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">Mountain Lake.\u00a0\u00a0At this time, the results received do not\u00a0indicate\u00a0any toxins\u00a0present.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">Additional\u00a0sample results are pending.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Some harmful algae, called cyanobacteria, can cause skin rash and gastrointestinal\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">illnesses, such as upset stomach, nausea,\u00a0vomiting\u00a0and diarrhea. Avoid discolored water\u00a0<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">or scums that are green or bluish-green because they could<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">contain\u00a0toxins.\u00a0<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">When in\u00a0<\/span><\/b> <b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">doubt, stay out!<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Send all questions and interview requests to Brookie Crawford at\u00a0<\/span><br \/>\n<a href=\"mailto:brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Public Message:<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">To prevent illness, people should:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Avoid contact with any area of the waterbody where water is green or an advisory sign is posted, WHEN IN DOUBT, STAY OUT!<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Not allow children or pets to drink from natural bodies of water.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Keep children and pets out of the areas experiencing a harmful algae bloom.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Quickly wash exposed skin and\/or wash your pets off with plenty of fresh, clean water after\u00a0coming into contact with\u00a0algae scum or bloom water.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"5\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Seek medical\/veterinarian care if you or your animals experience symptoms after swimming in or near an algal bloom.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"6\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Properly clean\u00a0fish by\u00a0removing skin and discarding all internal organs\u00a0and cooking fish to the proper temperature to ensure fish fillets are safe to eat.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"7\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Contact the Harmful Algal Bloom Hotline at 1-888-238-6154 if you suspect you experienced health-related effects following exposure to a bloom.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Visit\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.swimhealthyva.com\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">www.SwimHealthyVA.com<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0to learn more about harmful algae blooms or to report\u00a0<\/span><br \/>\n<span data-contrast=\"auto\">an algae bloom or fish kill.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Our media updates provide timely information on public health issues affecting communities across the Commonwealth, including disease trends, prevention guidance, safety advisories, and community resources. VDH strives to keep media partners and the public informed about emerging health concerns, response efforts, and actions Virginians can take to protect their health. In This Update &#8211; July [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":510,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18733","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>VDH Media Update - Newsroom<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/media-update\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"VDH Media Update - Newsroom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Our media updates provide timely information on public health issues affecting communities across the Commonwealth, including disease trends, prevention guidance, safety advisories, and community resources. 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