Updates from the Health Department
January 2, 2025
Key Points:
Norovirus is a virus that spreads very easily and quickly and can cause diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and stomach pain.
People of all ages can get norovirus.
You can help prevent infections by washing your hands, practicing food safety, and taking steps to avoid spreading it to others if you do get sick.
Norovirus (sometimes called stomach flu or stomach bug) is a virus that causes vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain. Norovirus spreads very easily and very quickly. People of all ages can get sick from norovirus.
Like other gastrointestinal (stomach and intestines) illnesses, norovirus spreads throughout the year, but is most common from November to April. Each year, 19-21 million people get sick and there are about 2,500 reported outbreaks in the United States.
How It Spreads
You can get norovirus by:
Having direct contact with someone who has norovirus.
Eating food or drinking liquids contaminated with norovirus.
Touching contaminated surfaces and objects and then touching your mouth without washing your hands.
See examples of how norovirus can spread.
Most people with norovirus illness get better in 1 to 3 days. There is no specific medicine that can treat norovirus, but it is important to drink plenty of liquids to prevent dehydration. Dehydration can lead to serious problems. If you, or someone you are caring for, becomes severely dehydrated, contact a healthcare provider.
Prevent Norovirus
Norovirus is very contagious, but there are ways you can prevent it.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Hand sanitizer does not work well against norovirus. It is especially important wash at key times: after using the toilet or changing diapers, before and after eating, and before and after caring for someone who is sick.
Practice food safety steps to help prevent norovirus. Keep up the healthy habits in your kitchen:
Wash your hands before, during, and after preparing food.
Rinse fruits and vegetables well.
Keep your kitchen utensils and surfaces clean.
Cook oysters and other shellfish to an internal temperature of at least 145°F.
Steps to Take if You Get Norovirus
If you get sick with norovirus, stay hydrated and take steps to stop it from spreading to others.
Drink plenty of liquids to avoid dehydration and potentially serious health problems. If you, or someone you are caring for, becomes dehydrated, contact a healthcare provider.
Stay home and away from others while you are sick and for at least 48 hours after your symptoms stop. You should also avoid preparing food for others - at home and at work - while you are sick and for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop.
Immediately clean and disinfect the entire area around where someone vomits or has diarrhea. You should also wash any clothing or linens that get vomit or poop on them right away. See how to clean and disinfect.
Learn more about norovirus from the CDC. Learn more about keeping your hands clean, food safety, and other important health topics by visiting our website and following us on social media.
December 17, 2024
Applications are now open for the Public Health Youth Ambassador Program's Spring 2025 cohort.
The Public Health Youth Ambassador Program (PHYAP) trains 10th through 12th grade high school students across Fairfax County about methods to reduce opioid use, teen mental health issues, and becoming a Community Health Worker. PHYAP provides certifications from two nationally-know public health institutions (Morehouse College and George Mason University) in each of those areas during its Fall and Spring cohorts.
Since PHYAP’s inception, the program is proud to have partnered with three outstanding Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), where our Community Health Worker curriculum is offered during day sessions: John R. Lewis High School, Justice High School, and Mount Vernon High School. Students who qualify can take part in lessons and hands-on activities led by trained PHYAP facilitators three days a week during their advisory period.
For high-school aged students who do not attend Lewis, Mount Vernon, or Justice but wish to become a Youth Ambassador, program sessions are offered outside of regular class hours at the Fairfax County Government Center. Evening classes are held Monday through Thursday each week, while our weekend class is held each Saturday morning. Whether a student attends private school, a faith-based school, is homeschooled, or goes to a non-partner Fairfax County Public School, they have the chance to jumpstart their secondary school and career engagement in the expanding community health field.
Applications for the program are now available. Application deadline is 8:00 a.m. on Monday, January 13th.
Learn more about the Public Health Youth Ambassador Program.
December 16, 2024
Be a local hero in 2025! Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) volunteers are on the front lines during emergencies, performing critical tasks like staffing vaccination clinics, shelters, and medication dispensing sites. Whether it’s a natural disaster, public health crisis, or other emergency, your efforts directly impact the safety and well-being of the Fairfax and Falls Church communities.
1. No Medical Experience? No Problem!
You don’t need to be a healthcare professional to make a difference in the MRC. In fact, you don’t need to have any sort of medical background at all. The Fairfax MRC welcomes volunteers of all backgrounds and skill sets. Whether you’re a teacher, retiree, or IT professional, your unique skills are valuable in supporting emergency responses and everyday public health efforts.
2. Gain Skills and Training
When you join the MRC, you’ll gain access to free, hands-on training in emergency response, personal preparedness, and other essential skills. These aren’t just useful for volunteering — they’re life skills you can use every day. You’ll feel confident and empowered, knowing you’re equipped to help during a crisis.
3. Be Part of Something Bigger
Join a national movement! The MRC was established in 2002 to strengthen America’s ability to respond to disasters. With over 800 units and 300,000+ volunteers nationwide, you’ll be part of a team that has made a lasting difference locally, regionally, and across the country.
4. Strengthen Your Community
MRC volunteers are everyday heroes helping to build community resilience. MRC volunteers don’t just assist during emergencies — they play a vital role in the Fairfax County Health Department’s regular operations. From programmatic tasks like data entry and community outreach to clinical support, there’s always a way to make a meaningful impact.
Whether it’s running flu clinics, educating the public on emergency preparedness, or supporting daily Health Department operations, your contributions will leave a lasting impact.
5. Build Lifelong Connections
Joining the MRC isn’t just about volunteering — it’s about community. You’ll connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for helping others, forming friendships and professional networks that can last a lifetime.
Ready to join the MRC? Learn more and begin your application at fairfaxcounty.gov/health/medical-reserve-corps.
December 12, 2024
As 2024 winds down, now is the time to make a plan focused on simple but effective ways to improve your health and wellbeing in the new year. By adopting small, sustainable habits, you can set the tone for a healthier and happier year.
Here are five tips to help you prioritize your health and wellbeing in 2025:
1. Keep up with your regular check-ups and screenings
Regular medical check-ups and screenings are crucial in detecting health issues early. Schedule an annual physical, dental visit and age-appropriate screenings like mammograms or cholesterol checks. If you missed any appointments last year, now is the time to catch up.
2. Stay up to date on vaccinations
Protect yourself and your loved ones by ensuring you are caught up on your vaccinations. This includes the annual flu shot, COVID-19 boosters and other vaccines recommended for your age group and lifestyle. Talk with your local healthcare provider, pharmacist or visit the Health Department website for information on recommended immunizations and where to get them.
3. Move more, sit less
Physical activity doesn't have to mean intense workouts. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, like brisk walking or cycling. If you’re new to exercise, start with small changes – like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or stretching during TV commercials. Remember, consistency is key, so try to find physical activities you enjoy and fit your lifestyle.
4. Eat more whole foods
A healthy diet fuels a healthy body. Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins into your meals while cutting back on processed foods and sugary drinks. If fresh produce isn’t accessible for you, opt for frozen to get the same nutritious value for less. Need meal ideas? Visit MyPlate Kitchen to find delicious and nutritious recipes that fit your lifestyle and dietary needs.
5. Prioritize mental health
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Practice mindfulness, consider journaling or spend time doing activities you enjoy. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional or take advantage of local resources like counseling services and support groups.
Improving your health doesn’t have to be complicated. By focusing on small, meaningful changes, you can create habits that will benefit you all year long.
Find more information about local health services and resources on the Health Department website.
Wash Your Hands Often
Mosquito & Tick Bite Prevention
Health Dept. Strategic Plan
Parents: Get your child's immunizations up-to-date!
Don’t wait, get caught up on well check-ups and recommended childhood immunizations now!
Ensuring children are up-to-date on their vaccinations helps provide immunity before they are exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases. Vaccines are safe and effective.
And remember, vaccination it important at all ages. Parents, grandparents, and caregivers, make sure you are up to date, too!