Author: R. Ellick

Nothing says summertime fun more than grilling a delicious meal outdoors. But it’s important to you use your grill correctly and handle food properly to avoid accidental burns or illness.  

Grill Safety 

• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill. 

• Never leave the grill unattended while in use. 

• Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling jewelry that might pose a safety risk around the grill’s flames. 

• Make sure the grill is clean before you start cooking.  

• If you’re using a charcoal grill, use a starter only designated for charcoal. 

• • Make sure the charcoal and ashes are completely cooled before disposal.  

• If you’re using a propane grill, check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it the first time each year. 

Food Preparation 

• Make sure your hands and food preparation areas are clean before you start cooking. 

• • Wash your hands thoroughly using soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food. 

• • Clean your food preparation areas with hot soapy water. 

• Keep foods at the proper temperature – whether hot or cold. 

• • Keep cold food cold. Before grilling, keep meats and temperature-sensitive sides refrigerated or in an insulated cooler below 40°F. 

• • • Cold foods in individual serving dishes can be placed directly on ice on your picnic table or in a shallow container placed in a deep plan filled with ice.  

• • • Replace the ice frequently to maintain the cold temperature. 

• • While cooking, remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after handling raw meat, fish, or poultry.  

• Cook foods to a safe internal temperature; use a food thermometer. 

• • 145°F: beef, pork, veal, and lamb (roast, steaks, chops), and fish (either whole or fillet). Let the meat rest for 3 minutes before serving. 

• • 160°F: hamburgers, sausages, and other ground beef, pork, or lamb. 

• • 165°F: poultry including chicken and turkey (whole, parts, or ground). 

• Keep hot food hot. 

• • Grilled food can be kept hot until serving by moving it to the side of the grill, just away from the coals.  

• • Dishes like casseroles can be held in insulated carrying cases to keep them warm. 

• If you’re using a BBQ smoker, play close attention to the air temperature inside the smoker itself to make sure the heat stays between 225-300 degrees F during the cooking process to ensure that your food cooks properly. 

Food Storage 

The cookout is finished, and everyone is stuffed. Now comes the best part: leftovers!  

Keep these tips in mind when storing and devouring leftovers: 

• Refrigerate leftovers within two hours and make sure the refrigerator temperature is at 40°F or below. 

• • Divide leftovers into smaller portions and store in shallow containers in the refrigerator. This allows food to cool more quickly and keeps it safe. 

• Throw food out when: 

• • It’s been sitting out for more than two hours at room or air temperature.  

• • It’s been sitting out for one hour when the air temperature is 90 degrees or higher. 

• Leftovers should be eaten, frozen, or discarded within 3 to 4 days. 

• • Reheat cooked leftovers to 165 degrees as measured with a food thermometer.  

Learn More 

The Virginia Department of Health website is a great resource for more food safety and outdoor grilling tips.  

• The Food Safety page is filled with more information about safe food handling. 

• The Outdoor Grilling Safety page has information about how to protect yourself and your family around gas or charcoal grills.  

• The Partnership for Food Safety Education has additional tips for handling and grilling meat. 

Now get out there, get grilling, and have a great summer! 

As we prepare to celebrate July 4th, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) encourages you to enjoy fireworks at a distance. In other words, let the professionals handle the fireworks display. Taking this step is the safest way to enjoy the holiday celebration. However, if you choose to enjoy fireworks up close, use legal fireworks and sparklers. Also, consider adopting the safety measures below.  

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks 

• Older children should use them only under close adult supervision 

• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol 

• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear 

• Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands 

• Never light them indoors 

• Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material 

• Never point or throw fireworks at another person 

• Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting 

• Never ignite devices in a container 

• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks 

• Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding 

• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire 

• Never use illegal fireworks 

Following these steps can help you from becoming a statistic.  According to the 2023 U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission report, emergency rooms treated 9,700 people for fireworks related injuries. Eight people died. For more information about firework safety, visit the Virginia Department of Fire Programs and the Virginia Department of Forestry. For other safety related information visit the Virginia Department of Health. 

Drinking Water and Wastewater Professionals Appreciation Day was established by the Virginia General Assembly in 2016 and is dedicated to recognizing the important work of water and wastewater professionals across the state. These individuals play a crucial role in our communities and help to safeguard public health, the environment and the economy. 

Ensuring Safe Drinking Water 

One of the main responsibilities of water professionals is to ensure our drinking water is safe for consumption and use. Providing clean water is a 24/7, 365 days-a-year commitment that requires strict monitoring and maintenance. This responsibility involves: 

• Testing water samples: Regular testing helps to detect contaminants or harmful substances. 

• Maintaining Equipment: Ensuring operation systems are functioning properly. 

• Enforcing Regulations: Follow local, state and federal regulations to make sure water quality meets safety standards. 

 Treating Wastewater 

Wastewater professionals work to ensure wastewater is properly treated and that it meets environmental and public health standards before being safely released or recycled. This involves: 

• Overseeing treatment plants: Maintain and monitor equipment used to treat wastewater. 

• Assessing water quality: Monitor biological, chemical and physical process used to treat wastewater. 

• Monitoring Environmental Impact: Contribute to providing a healthy environment by preventing pollution and contamination of waterways. 

 Water and Wastewater Professionals include:  

• Environmental Water Specialists 

• Water Quality Technicians 

• Public Works Technicians 

• Surveyors 

• Hydrogeologists  

• Wastewater Operation Technicians 

• Wastewater Engineers 

• Water Plant Operators 

To learn more about drinking and wastewater treatment in Virginia, visit in the Virginia Department of Health’s Office of Environmental Health Services and Office of Drinking Water websites. 

National HIV Testing Day is observed on June 27 every year.  On this day, we stress the importance of HIV testing and knowing your status.  HIV testing is an important part of your general health and well being.   

There are more ways than ever to get tested for HIV.  If you have a healthcare provider, you can ask for HIV testing as part of your regular appointments.  Otherwise, there are many other options in Virginia that are free or at low-cost. 

National HIV Testing Day Event 

Nine community agencies are partnering with Walgreens and Greater Than HIV across the nation to offer free HIV testing on HIV Testing Day. These agencies will provide testing at 12 Walgreens locations across the state. Visit the NHTD Walgreens Locator to find a location near you.   

Some agencies/locations will also offer rapid syphilis and hepatitis C testing. 

Testing Locations 

VDH has local health departments that offer testing throughout the state. VDH also works with community organizations and healthcare clinics to offer HIV testing.  Some locations offer rapid testing that can give you your results in 20 minutes or less.  To learn more about HIV testing and to find a location near you, visit the VDH HIV testing webpage. 

Why Getting Tested is Important 

Since 2020, the number of HIV diagnoses and rate (per 100,000) has risen each year in Virginia.  Before 2020, the number of new HIV diagnoses were stable or declining.   Certain areas of Virginia and some groups of people are more impacted by HIV. The VDH HIV dashboard has information that explains some of these differences.  

If you are sexually active, talk to your healthcare provider about getting HIV testing each year.  If you have other risk factors such as multiple partners, drug use, unprotected sex, etc., talk to your provider about more frequent testing. 

Getting tested for HIV is the only way to know your status.  Knowing your status is critical to effectively managing your health. 

HIV Self-Testing 

HIV self-test kits can give you results in about 20 minutes in the privacy of your own home or wherever is convenient. Some people are eligible to receive a free HIV self-test kit.  If you’re eligible, a kit will be mailed discreetly to your home. You can take the kit in the privacy of your home or wherever else is convenient. Your results will be ready in about 20 minutes. There are several options provided for support to help with the testing process and to answer questions about your results. To learn more about this program, visit the Virginia Greater Than HIV partner program page. 

Have Questions? 

If you have questions about HIV testing, contact us!  Our hotline staff is available to answer your questions and help.  The Disease Prevention Hotline is available toll-free. Call (800) 533-4148 to reach us.  Hotline hours are weekdays from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.   

Summer is all about fun in the sun! But as temperatures rise, you should take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. 

Last summer, Virginia saw more than 3,200 heat-related illness visits to emergency departments (EDs) and urgent cares according to the surveillance dashboard.   

When temperatures climb into the 90s and 100s, make sure you follow these tips to stay healthy: 

• Keep cool. Whenever possible, stay in the air conditioning. Don’t have AC? Check with your local government for cooling centers or visit indoor locations like libraries or malls. 

• Stay hydrated. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink. Drink water and plenty of it. Avoid drinks high in sugar, sodium, caffeine, and alcohol. 

• Wear sunscreen. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Apply every two hours. 

• Eat light meals. Avoid hot, heavy meals. They add heat to the body. Avoid using the stove or oven to cook. It will make you and the house hotter. 

• Dress light. Wear loose, light-colored, and lightweight clothing. 

• Limit time outside. Try to limit your outdoor activity to when it’s coolest, like morning and evening hours. Stay in the shade when you can. 

• Protect others. Never leave children or pets in cars. Get in the habit of always checking your back seat to make sure no child or pet is left behind. 

• Stay informed. Pay attention to the forecast. Understand heat advisories. 

• Make sure you check on your neighbors. Keep an eye on vulnerable populations, such as: 

• • Outdoor workers 

• • Elderly adults 

• • Infants and children 

• • Individuals with chronic conditions 

• • Pregnant women 

• • Athletes 
• Know the Symptoms. Pay attention to your body to recognize the signs of heat-related illness. Cool down with a shower or a bath. Seek medical care immediately if symptoms worsen. 
• Call 911 immediately if an individual: 
  • Loses consciousness,  

• • Has a fast, strong pulse,  

• • Has hot, red skin, and/or  

• • Has a temperature of 103°F or higher 

Check out the Heat Risk Forecast or the CDC Heat and Health Tracker for heat risk and keep these tips in mind for a safe, cool summer. Remember your local health department is a great resource for summer safety. 

Have a healthy, happy, and safe summer! 

Nothing can spoil your summertime outside like the buzz of mosquitoes feeding on their favorite meal: you. 

Not only do mosquito bites itch like crazy, but they can also spread diseases to people and other mammals. The most common locally acquired mosquito-borne illness in Virginia is West Nile Virus. Other illnesses like malaria, Zika, dengue, and chikungunya are reported in Virginia each year, but are typically associated with travel. 

National Mosquito Control Awareness Week is observed this year from June 15-21. The goal is simple: to highlight the dangers that mosquitoes pose and the everyday things we can do in our daily lives to reduce those dangers. 

When thinking of mosquito control, just remember the three Ds: drain, dress, and defend. 

Drain: Many types of mosquitoes love standing water. Many mosquito problems around your home or neighborhood can be reduced by eliminating any standing water. These are just a few steps you can take: 

• Dispose of any old tires. Water can collect in tires and serve as the breeding grounds for thousands of mosquitoes. 

• Clear debris from your gutters. 

• Drill holes in the bottoms of any recycling containers. 

• Repair leaky outdoor faucets. 

• Change the water in bird baths at least once a week. 

• Store canoes or kayaks upside down. 

• Avoid water collecting on pool covers. 

• Plug any holes in tree trunks where water can collect. 

Dress: When you’re outside, wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Studies have shown that many species of mosquitoes found in the U.S. are more attracted to dark clothing. Most mosquitoes can bite through tight-fitting clothing made with a loose weave. Also, when practical, wear long sleeves and pants to cover your skin. 

Defend: Choose a mosquito repellent that has been registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Registered products have been reviewed, approved, and pose minimal risk for human safety when you use them according to label directions. Three popular repellents that have been approved for use are: 

• DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), 

• Picaridin (KBR 3023), and 

• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (p-methane 3,8 diol, or PMD). 

If you’re using a repellent:  

• Read the directions carefully and always use repellants as directed.  

• Keep repellents away from the eyes, nostrils, and lips. 

• Avoid applying it to portions of a child’s hands likely to come into contact with their eyes or mouth. 

• Talk with your pediatrician if you have questions about the use of DEET in children. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that DEET-based repellents can be used on children as young as 2 months of age. 

• Use repellants even if you are pregnant or nursing. 

• Never use a repellent on wounds or irritated skin. 

• Use repellents sparingly and reapply as needed. Saturation with a repellent does not make it work better. 

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) website provides information about mosquitoes and mosquito-borne illnesses. For more information about preventing mosquito bites, including a search tool for choosing the repellant that’s right for you and your family visit https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/prevention/index.html 

Be smart when you’re outdoors. Don’t be a day’s meal for the swarms of mosquitoes buzzing around out there. 

Did you know that according to the National Safety Council (NSC), preventable injuries are a leading cause of death in the United States? The Virginia Department of Health joins the Council and other organizations around the country in shining a light on preventing injury.  

June is National Safety Month. Whether it’s preparing for summer fun or enjoying all other seasons, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.  

• Bicycle and skate safety 

• Playground safety 

• Drowning prevention  

• Dog bite prevention 

• Fall prevention for children. 

• Choking and strangulation prevention for infants and toddlers 

• Poison prevention  

• Domestic violence prevention 

• Gun safety 

• Home fire safety 

For more information or additional resources, visit Injury and Violence Prevention. 

The 38th annual National Cancer Survivors Day was June 1. This year, the focus was on celebrating cancer survivors, raising awareness and inspiring hope for the future. According to the American Cancer Society, as of 2022, more than 432,500 cancer survivors live in Virginia.   

VDH is also highlighting the important role timely cancer screening can have on in improved outcomes among cancer survivors. Programs like Every Woman’s Life (EWL), offer life-saving services. EWL provides free breast and cervical cancer screening services to Virginia women who are uninsured or have low income.  

A person is considered a cancer survivor from the time of diagnosis through the rest of their life. However, after treatment has ended, cancer survivors may experience 

• long term physical and emotional side effects,  

• financial hardships,  

• increased risk for secondary cancers  

• other health problems as a result of their cancer diagnosis and treatment.    

There are a number of resources available to cancer survivors and their caretakers to help address needs they may experience during their survivorship journey.  

• CDC Cancer Survivors: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/survivors/index.htm  

• National Cancer Institute: Cancer Survivorship: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/coping/survivorship  

• American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org/  

• Patient Advocate Foundation: https://www.patientadvocate.org/  

• Cancer LINC: https://cancerlinc.org/  

• ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation: https://www.askccf.org/  

To learn more, visit the Virginia Cancer Plan. 

May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month. High blood pressure is often called the silent killer. This is because it can have no symptoms but is the leading cause of heart disease and stroke. High blood pressure can also damage your kidneys, eyes, brain and the lining of your blood vessels.  

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) encourages you to know your blood pressure numbers. The more you know, the better chance you have of protecting yourself and preventing: 

• Stroke 

• Heart attack 

• Cardiovascular or heart disease 

• Death 

Make sure to also adopt good health habits to keep your blood pressure under control: 

• Get regular check ups 

• Eat a balanced diet 

• Exercise regularly 

• Manage your stress 

• Regularly monitor your blood pressure 

• Learn more about high blood pressure. 

 

As we begin spending more time outdoors, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) encourages you to protect your skin. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, can put you at risk for skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. The good news is that it’s preventable.

To help prevent skin cancer:

• Wear sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher)
• Reapply every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or toweling off
• Wear protective clothing
• Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, (long sleeves and pants when possible)
• Spend time in the shade
• Avoid peak sunlight hours (10 a.m.-4 p.m.)
• Do regular skin self-exams

If you find something unusual on your skin, contact your health care provider. Finding skin cancer early improves the chances of it being treated successfully.

VDH offers a variety of resources and information about cancer. Learn more by visiting the VDH cancer resources page. For additional questions, please email [email protected].