Health Department

Seventy-six expecting and parenting young women celebrated an important milestone last week as they graduated from the Fairfax County Health Department's Stable Families, Thriving Futures (SFTF) program, marking the beginning of a promising new chapter for themselves and their families.

The graduation ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of these young mothers and recognized the determination, resilience and hard work of each participant to complete the program. 

“I want you to know that your presence here speaks volumes about who you are,” Program Manager Victoria Garcia told the graduates during Friday’s ceremony. “You made a commitment to learn, to grow, and to become the best parents you can be. And for many of you, that was while attending high school, working and taking care of your family. That takes courage, determination and love.”

Fairfax County Health Director Dr. Gloria Addo-Ayensu offered congratulations to the graduating class, applauding their perseverance and encouraging them to continue pursuing their education, careers and personal goals. She emphasized that the knowledge, skills and support gained through the program will help strengthen not only their own futures, but those of their children for years to come.
 

The Fairfax County Health Department is expanding walk-in hours at all four of its public health centers starting July 1. While appointments remain available, the extended walk-in hours will make accessing Health Department services easier, including vaccinations, sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, maternity services such as pregnancy testing, and other public health services. 

Starting July 1, the new hours are as follows:

While walk-ins are available for most services, those who prefer an appointment can make one by calling 703-246-7100. 

Back-to-School Immunization Clinics

Beginning July 31, the Health Department will launch its annual back-to-school immunization clinics. For your convenience, walk-in hours will be offered during the dedicated clinic hours. Parents are advised to bring their child’s immunization record. 

The Partnership for a Healthier Fairfax held its summer meeting on Thursday, June 25 at the Fairfax County Government Center.  Members of the steering committee, various workgroups and county staff joined guests from various nonprofits, churches and other community organizations to welcome the organization’s new co-chairs, hear about the ongoing work to improve the lives of residents, and honor the outstanding achievements of members over the last year.

Yolonda Earl-Thompson was introduced as one of the new steering committee co-chairs. Earl-Thompson is the founder and executive director of LAZERA Ministries, a community-based organization dedicated to providing human-centered programs that foster healing, leadership development and restoration for individuals and families facing hardship. Earl-Thompson is widely recognized as a trusted community convener and sought-after facilitator, supporting regional institutions, foundations, and nonprofit coalitions in integrating lived experience into decision-making and systems change. Her work is grounded in grassroots advocacy, human-centered engagement and empowering residents to influence systems that impact their lives.

Serving alongside Earl-Thompson will be Ryan Springer. He is the founder and managing partner of BBJ & Associates LLC, a public health consulting firm that leverages a "Tech Forward, People Centered" approach to drive impactful change for behavioral health, health tech, and government clients. There he leads strategy, operations and business development activities. Springer has secured over $10M in grant funding for behavioral health initiatives, led strategic planning and organizational mergers, and launched innovative community-based programs. He is passionate about health equity, operational excellence and leveraging data-driven strategies to drive positive change in health care and community well-being.

The Live Healthy Fairfax Awards program launched in November 2021 to recognize individuals, businesses and organizations—both public and private—that have demonstrated exemplary supportive leadership and action to improve the health and well-being of individuals, families and populations in the Fairfax Community. 

This year, the following individuals and organizations were recognized:

The 2026 Live Healthy Fairfax Award for the Healthy Environment and Active Living was presented to the Korean Community Service Center of Greater Washington (KCSC) for their leadership, innovation and unwavering belief that every resident—regardless of language, culture or background—should have a meaningful voice in how their community is designed. Founded in 1974, KCSC is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health, well-being and quality of life of Asian American, immigrant and underserved communities throughout the Washington metropolitan region.

The Chris Atwood Foundation was awarded the Live Healthy Fairfax Award for Behavioral Health. Through their documented, life-saving outcomes, nationally recognized partnerships, and unwavering commitment to people in active use, The Chris Atwood Foundation exemplifies excellence in behavioral health innovation and impact. The Chris Atwood Foundation was created in 2013 after The Atwood Family lost their son and brother, Chris, to an accidental overdose at age 21, and creates recovery ready communities through free harm reduction and recovery support services, resources and education. 

Rising Hope Mission Church was honored with the Live Healthy Fairfax Award for the Fairfax Food Council for their deep respect for the people they serve, their innovative, health-centered approach to food assistance, and their unwavering commitment to dignity, inclusion and community. Rising Hope is committed to building strong foundations and connections within the community along the Route One corridor.

Lastly, the Partnership presented special recognition to an individual health champion, Sally Lee.  Three years ago, at the age of 91, Sally moved to Fairfax after 52 years in California, approaching the move with an open mind and readiness for new adventures. At the Vienna Community Center, Lee is a steady presence in Tai Chi classes three times a week, reminding others that staying active is possible, and worth the effort. Lee also demonstrates that promoting health isn’t just about exercise or diet, it’s about creating opportunities for people to come together, to share traditions and to belong.

Following the awards presentations, co-chairs of the partnership workgroups, including the Promoting Behavioral Health team, the Healthy Environment and Active Living (HEAL) team and the Fairfax Food Council spoke of their efforts to address key issues identified in the Community Health Improvement Plan. The formation of a new Health Care Access team was also announced, to align with the fourth priority area identified in CHIP 3.0. Afterward, attendees had the opportunity to meet and network with others who share their particular interest and discuss the work ahead.

The Partnership for a Healthier Fairfax is a coalition of community members and organizations that are working together to explore new approaches for addressing critical public health issues. This diverse group of individuals, community organizations, schools, health care providers, nonprofits, businesses, faith communities and government agencies formed the Partnership in 2010. Once the Partnership was established, its primary objective was to create and spearhead the implementation of a wide range of community-owned, multisector health initiatives. To learn more about the Partnership, or to receive the newsletter, email livehealthy@fairfaxcounty.gov.
 

Anthony Mingo, Division Director for Community Health Development at the Fairfax County Health Department was recognized with the Fatherhood Leadership in Government Award by The National Partnership for Community Leadership (NPCL).  President and CEO Dr. Jeffrey M. Johnson presented the award at the NPCL’s 28^th annual International Father and Family Practitioners Conference held recently in Bethesda, MD.

“This award represents over twenty years of my working alongside many faith leaders, clinicians, practitioners and researchers from around the world to improve long term child and parental health and psychosocial outcomes,” said Mingo.

This award is presented annually to the public sector official (government or policy maker) for outstanding contributions in the advancement of government efforts that promote responsible fatherhood and strong families.

Mingo adds, “This award also acknowledges that the issue of Father absence and its associated negative generational impacts has created a recognition that father absence is a public health issue. Although admittedly difficult, this work must continue on behalf of the communities we in public health are charged with serving.”

The Fairfax County Health Department celebrated the 2026 graduates of its Public Health Youth Ambassador Program (PHYAP) on Saturday, June 6, at Thomas Edison High School. The ceremony recognized 95 students who successfully completed the program’s public health curriculum.

Attendees heard remarks from Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay, Health Director Dr. Gloria Addo-Ayensu, and PHYAP Program Manager Scott Folks. Three student speakers — Alice K., Jaelin S., and Priela T. — shared personal reflections on their roles in the program and the ways the experience influenced their academic and career goals. The keynote address was delivered by Daryl Washington, Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services and former executive director of the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board.

"The Fairfax County Health Department is committed to providing targeted support for young people throughout our region. The Public Health Youth Ambassador Program exemplifies this vision by supplying the curriculum knowledge, practicum experiences, and access to professionals that is designed to enhance both their secondary school and career goals, no matter which road they choose,” Folks said.

PHYAP is a free initiative that equips students in grades 10 through 12 with essential knowledge and skills in public health, including opioid use prevention, teen mental health support, and community health work. Participants earn nationally recognized certifications from Morehouse College and George Mason University while growing as community leaders through hands-on project development, mentorship, and interactive coursework.

PHYAP graduates are also invited to join the Youth Ambassador Alumni Program, which offers advanced learning experiences and ongoing mentorship opportunities. Many alumni have gone on to pursue further studies and careers in public health and health care-related industries, continuing to serve and uplift their communities.

Learn more about PHYAP and how to submit an application and view the event photo gallery to see photos from the celebration. 

Residents Who Encountered a Kitten Near Poplar Ford Park on Bull Run Post Office Road in Centreville Asked to Call Fairfax County Health Department

The Fairfax County Health Department has confirmed rabies in a kitten located in Centreville near the entrance of Poplar Ford Park on Bull Run Post Office Road. During the time it was sick, the kitten may have had contact with other people or pets. The kitten is described as a domestic shorthair orange tabby male that was approximately five weeks old.  If you, someone you know, or a pet was touched, bitten, or scratched by a kitten meeting the description above between May 12 to May 15, you are urged to call the Fairfax County Health Department Rabies Program at 703-246-2433, TTY 711. The kitten has been captured, and the purpose of this notice is to identify any additional potential exposures.

Rabies is a serious disease caused by a virus that can infect wildlife (e.g. foxes, raccoons, skunks and bats), as well as domestic animals, such as dogs and cats. The rabies virus is found in the saliva, brain and spinal tissue of an infected animal. People may get infected with rabies when they are bitten or scratched by an animal that is sick with the disease. The virus can also be passed along when an infected animal’s saliva or central nervous tissue enters an open wound, mouth, nose or eyes of another mammal. To date, 13 animals have been diagnosed with rabies in Fairfax County in 2026.

Animals with rabies may act normally during the early stages of the disease, making it difficult to know if the animal is infected. As the disease progresses, animals often show changes in behavior. For example, wild animals may act very docile, and domestic animals may become aggressive. Rabid animals may stagger, drool, or become paralyzed.  

Here are some important steps to protect yourself and your pets from rabies:

• Protect yourself and your family from rabies: stay away from wild animals. Remember, if the animal is not your own, leave it alone! Do not adopt or feed wild or stray animals.
• Be sure pets are vaccinated against rabies every year.
• Do not allow your pets to roam unattended.
• Seal openings in your house so that wildlife cannot enter.
• Report animal bites, animals that are acting strangely (including domestic animals), or altercations between wild and domestic animals to Fairfax County’s Department of Animal Services at 703-691-2131, TTY 711.

If bitten or scratched by an animal that might have rabies, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention right away. When vaccinations are provided in time and appropriately, rabies treatment is 100% effective in preventing the disease.  If not treated, rabies is 100% fatal. 

More information about rabies can be found on the Fairfax County Health Department website at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/rabies/.

The Fairfax County Health Department will launch its annual back-to-school immunization push on Friday, July 31.  To help parents ensure their children are ready for the upcoming school year, dedicated school immunization hours, including expanded evening hours, will be offered at the Herndon-Reston Public Health Center; Annandale Public Health Center; Franconia-Springfield Public Health Center; Mount Vernon Public Health Center. 

Appointments are encouraged but walk-ins are also welcome. Parents are also advised to bring with them their child's immunization record. 

See the dedicated back-to-school clinic dates, times, and locations in the table below.

These clinics hours are open to all students in Fairfax County who need immunizations, regardless of if they have had vaccines. Children who are enrolled in preschool and community-based childcare centers may also receive needed immunizations during these clinic hours. 

Parents of students entering kindergarten, 7th grade, and 12th grade should be aware of the Virginia's immunization requirements.

The Fairfax County Health Department also offers childhood immunizations by appointment during regular clinic hours and during limited walk-in times. Learn more about childhood and school required immunizations.

Heat Safety Week is May 18-22, 2026. This year, hot weather is expected to last through September. As the heat persists, so do the risks for heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and other health impacts. Heat can affect anyone, but older adults are especially at risk. 

Take the heat seriously, know how to keep cool, and understand the risk factors that make heat dangerous. 

Heat-Related Illnesses: What to Watch For

Heat puts added strain on the body and can raise blood pressure, worsen existing health conditions, and increase the risk of falls due to dizziness. It can also affect mental health by increasing stress, anxiety, and other negative feelings. Adults ages 65 and older and people with heart disease, kidney disease, and other health conditions are especially at risk.

Heat-related illnesses can range from heat cramps to life-threatening heat stroke, so it’s important to know the signs and what to do.

• Heat Stroke:
  • Symptoms: Rapid pulse, dizziness, confusion, slurred speech, extremely high body temperature (above 103°F), red or dry skin, fainting.
  • What to Do: Call 911 immediately. This is a medical emergency. If someone shows these symptoms, move them to a cooler place, use cool cloths or a cold bath to lower body temperature, and do not give fluids unless directed by a medical professional.
• Heat Exhaustion:
  • Symptoms: Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, cool or clammy skin, headache, muscle cramps.
  • What to Do: Move to a cooler place (ideally indoors with air conditioning), apply cool, wet cloths to your body or take a cool bath, and sip water. Seek medical help if symptoms worsen, last more than an hour, or include vomiting.
• Dehydration:
  • Symptoms: Fatigue, headache, dry mouth, dizziness, dark-colored urine, muscle cramps.
  • What to Do: Sip water or electrolyte drinks to rehydrate. Avoid caffeine and alcoholic beverages, as these can be dehydrating.
• Heat Cramps:
  • Symptoms: Painful muscle cramps in the legs or abdomen, heavy sweating.
  • What to Do: Rest, sip water (unless you feel nauseated), and gently stretch or massage cramped muscles. If cramps last more than an hour, seek medical attention.

How to Stay Safe in the Heat

When temperatures are high, you can protect yourself by following these tips:

1. Reduce heat exposure: Stay inside during the hottest part of the day (usually 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Wear loose, light-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher when outside.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and add electrolytes if recommended by your healthcare provider. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty - hydration keeps your organs functioning, regulates your body temperature, and can improve your mood, concentration, and energy levels. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks that contribute to dehydration.
3. Don’t rely only on fans: A fan by itself may not keep you cool enough. Fans move air but do not cool the air or lower body temperature. Instead, use air conditioning if you can. You can also take a cool bath and place a cold, wet towel on your neck or head to cool down. When going outside, plan ahead by carrying water, electrolytes, and a small cloth that can be used as a cooling towel when wet, in case you need to cool down quickly.
4. Use county resources to stay cool: If you are having trouble keeping cool at home, consider visiting air-conditioned locations such as a shopping mall, library, or Fairfax County cooling center. If you’re 60 or older, you may be eligible for an air conditioning unit or fan through the Senior Cool Care Program. To learn more, call the Aging, Disability & Caregiver Resources Line at 703-324-7948.
5. Understand how your medications are affected: Some medications, such as antidepressants, certain heart medicines, and even antihistamines like Benadryl can make it harder for your body to cool down. Other medications, such as insulin, can be damaged by heat and lose their effectiveness. Talk to a healthcare provider about how heat may affect your health conditions and medications. 

Stay safe in the heat and remember to check on your loved ones and neighbors when you can. 

Learn more:

• Fairfax County Extreme Heat Resources
• Fairfax County Health Department | Climate Health

Hurricane Preparedness Week is May 3-9

The Fairfax Health District is reminding you that National Hurricane Preparedness Week is the perfect time to get ready for the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through November 30. Hurricanes can bring strong winds, heavy rain, flooding, and even tornadoes. These storms can cause serious damage, even in areas far from Virginia’s coast.

Northern Virginia experienced significant flooding from Tropical Storm Lee in 2003 and the remnants of Hurricane Ida in 2021. Preparing for hurricanes now can help keep you and your loved ones safe if and when a hurricane comes to Northern Virginia again. You can also sign up for free Fairfax Alerts to receive direct emergency alerts at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/alerts.

Colorado State University researchers predict a below normal hurricane season this year. They forecast 13 named storms, six hurricanes, and two major hurricanes. There is a 32% chance that at least one major hurricane will hit the United States. About 80% of major hurricanes strengthen very quickly, leaving you less time to prepare. One storm could change your life, so prepare now.

Make A Plan

When making or updating your emergency plan, think about:

• How will you communicate with family if you are separated?
• What is your evacuation zone if you live in a coastal area?
• What is your evacuation plan? Where will you go if you need to leave?
• What will you do with your pets during an emergency?
• Where will you keep your plan written down and who will you share it with?

Build a Kit

Build or update emergency kits for your home and your car. Check expiration dates and replace old items. Basic items include:

• Water and nonperishable food
• Flashlights and batteries
• First aid supplies
• Important documents
• Supplies for pets

Keep a list of your medicines, doses, and instructions. Include information about your health conditions, medical supplies, and allergies. Talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about keeping an emergency supply of your medications.

Stay Informed

• Download the FEMA app for real-time alerts.
• Use a NOAA weather radio.
• Sign up for community alerts in your area, if available, and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), which require no sign up.
• Track storms on the National Hurricane Center website.
• Know the difference between a Hurricane Watch and a Hurricane Warning.
  • Hurricane Watch: Conditions might happen within 48 hours.
  • Hurricane Warning: A hurricane with winds of 74 mph or higher is expected within 36 hours. Warnings may stay in place even if winds weaken but water levels remain dangerous.

Stay Safe This Hurricane Season

Preparing now can help protect you, your family, and your community. The Fairfax Health District encourages everyone to take time this week to review plans, check supplies, and stay aware of changing weather conditions.

If you have questions about emergency preparedness, please visit fairfaxcounty.gov/health/emergency. 

As climate-related hazards become more common and severe, our communities are facing longer and more intense pollen seasons, more pollution in the air, and wildfire smoke from faraway places. These changes can worsen air quality and affect our health.

The American Lung Association recently released its 27th annual “State of the Air” report based on air quality data across the country. Fairfax County received a “D” grade for air pollution, ranking among the worst in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

As we observe National Air Quality Awareness Week from May 4-8, 2026, take a few minutes to learn how to protect your health and the health of your loved ones from poor air quality.

How Does Air Quality Affect Health?

Poor air quality can cause:

• More severe or frequent allergy symptoms, such as red or itchy eyes, congestion, scratchy throat, sneezing, headaches, and fatigue
• Worse or more frequent asthma attacks
• Worsening of respiratory illness, heart disease, kidney disease, and other conditions
• Higher risk of new health issues, like heart attacks, asthma, allergies, and raised blood pressure

Who Is at Risk?

Everyone can be affected by poor air quality, but some groups are more at risk than others.

• Older adults, children, and people who are pregnant, because they can be more affected by air pollution, pollen, wildfire smoke, and other environmental conditions.
• People with medical conditions, such as heart disease, respiratory disease, or asthma, because poor air quality can worsen health conditions and increase strain on the body.
• People who work or exercise outside, such as construction workers, landscapers, emergency responders, and student athletes, because they often perform strenuous activity while outdoors.
• People of color, due to higher rates of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and heart disease, and higher chance of living in areas with heavy pollution.
• Socially or economically disadvantaged communities, because they are more likely to lack access to quality housing, transportation, and affordable healthcare, and are often located in areas with more pollution.
• People experiencing homelessness, due to amount of time spent outside and lower access to affordable healthcare.

How Can You Protect Your Health?

Protect your health from poor air quality by taking the following actions:

1. Stay informed:

• Check your local air quality at www.AirNow.gov and learn what the different colors mean.
• Keep an eye on local pollen forecasts using a weather app or trusted news source.
• Sign up for emergency alerts with Fairfax Alerts.

2. Reduce your exposure when air quality is poor:

• Stay inside as much as possible and keep windows and doors closed.
• When outside, choose shorter or less intense activities and take more breaks.
• When you get home, wash your hands, take a shower, and change your clothes to remove pollen and other substances from your hair, skin, and clothing.
• When driving, use your car’s air recirculation mode to keep pollution and allergens outside.

3. Make an emergency plan:

• Keep a month’s supply of important medicines, especially if you have asthma, allergies, or a lung disease such as COPD.
• Make sure prescribed breathing aids, such as inhalers, oxygen, and CPAP/BiPAP, are accessible and working correctly.
• Keep an updated list of medications, dosages, allergies, and medical conditions for each member of your household.
• Learn more emergency preparedness tips at fairfaxcounty.gov/health/emergency.

4. Protect your home to keep indoor air clean:

• If your home has an HVAC system, use high-efficiency filters and change them regularly.
• If you don’t have an HVAC system, consider portable air purifiers or box fans to help filter and keep air circulating.
• Use caulk to seal cracks around windows and doors to limit pollution from getting in.

5. Seek medical care:

• Talk to your doctor about medications and treatment options for your health conditions so you can be prepared year-round.
• Get medical care right away for urgent symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest tightness, or heart palpitations.

Take proactive steps to safeguard your health and the well-being of your loved ones by staying informed, reducing exposure, and preparing for emergencies.

Learn more and stay updated using the resources below.

More Resources

• From Sneezes to Wheezes, Allergy Season Anticipated to be Intense This Spring | Health
• AirNow.gov