The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of December 1, 2021, there are currently 6,267 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 27 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,895 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of December 1, 2021, there are currently 6,267 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 27 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,895 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
As we have with previous emerging COVID-19 variants, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is actively working with our federal partners, international regulators, and medical product companies to quickly address any potential impacts of the new omicron variant on the tools to fight the pandemic. ... more
As COVID-19 cases rise nationwide once more, there is concern about seasonal flu coinciding with the pandemic, affecting the health of West Virginians, and worsening the strain on West Virginia’s health care system. To protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu this season, the West Virginia Immunization Network encourages West Virginia residents to receive a flu vaccine.... more
West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey and a coalition of 11 other states succeeded in stopping additional vaccine mandates proposed by the Biden Administration earlier this month.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of November 29, 2021, there are currently 5,991 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 20 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,837 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
The World Health Organization says it could still take some time to get a full picture of the threat posed by omicron, a new variant of the coronavirus as scientists worldwide scramble to assess its multiple mutations.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of November 24, 2021, there are currently 6,754 active COVID-19 cases statewide.... more
While most people go years without needing the smoke detectors in their homes, they would never choose to get rid of a device that saves lives and prevents injury in the event of an emergency. But that’s often what happens to public health systems across the country.... more
United Hospital Center (UHC) is partnering with Vitalant (formerly Central Blood Bank) to host a community blood drive on December 1, 2021 at The Bridge Sports Complex on Court 1 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Bridge is located at 400 Forrester Blvd in Bridgeport. ... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to lower health care costs and improve health outcomes for Americans at risk of developing diabetes.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of November 23, 2021, there are currently 6,733 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 13 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,770 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
Is travel safe during the pandemic this holiday season?... more
The West Virginia Office of Medical Cannabis (OMC) will host public sign up events for medical cannabis patients from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 1 at Fairfield Inn & Suites, 161 Lewis Drive, Morgantown, WV, and from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Thursday, December 2 at Hampton Inn, 76 Hospitality Way, Weston, WV.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital recently honored Karen Woofter with the Valued Inspired Person Award (VIP) for the hospital. Karen works in the Environmental Service department.... more
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) took part in a three-day, multi-state emergency response exercise November 16-18. ... more
The Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Services (CAMTS) has awarded HealthNet Aeromedical Services a full, three-year reaccreditation for patient transport operations. ... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of November 22, 2021, there are currently 6,996 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 32 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,757* deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
An estimated 100,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in one year, a never-before-seen milestone that health officials say is tied to the COVID-19 pandemic and a more dangerous drug supply.... more
As many prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving and look ahead at a busy holiday season, the American Red Cross encourages eligible donors across the country to harness their humanity by giving blood in the coming weeks.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of November 19, 2021, there are currently 7,275 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 10 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,726* deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
Why can’t some COVID-19 vaccinated people travel to the U.S.? Because they might not be vaccinated with shots recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or the World Health Organization...... more
On November 19, 2021, the FDA amended the emergency use authorizations (EUA) for both the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines authorizing use of a single booster dose for all individuals 18 years of age and older after completion of primary vaccination with any FDA-authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccine.... more
West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, along with 11 other states, joined a lawsuit against the Biden Administration in opposing COVID-19 vaccine mandates for health care workers, including those working for Medicare and Medicaid certified providers and suppliers.... more
As families return to in-person holiday gatherings after lengthy delays caused by the pandemic, cognitive changes in a loved one may be alarmingly apparent.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of November 17, 2021, there are currently 6,462 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 22 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,698 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
During Monday’s briefing, Gov. Jim Justice announced that the deadline for West Virginians to apply to receive a $150 school voucher through the Healthy Grandfamilies vaccination incentive program is Dec. 15, 2021.... more
Drugmaker Pfizer Inc. has signed a deal with a U.N.-backed group to allow other manufacturers to make its experimental COVID-19 pill, a move that could make the treatment available to more than half of the world’s population.... more
Cancer patients and survivors are marking the American Cancer Society’s 46th Annual Great American Smokeout on November 18 by calling on elected officials to protect the health of all West Virginia residents by implementing strong tobacco control legislation.... more
When the fall chill hits the air, hunters take to the woods for hunting season. The West Virginia Poison Center recommends these safety tips for hunters and their families.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of November 15, 2021, there are currently 6,436 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 26 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,636 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
As local “buzz” builds about DMC’s new coffee café, officials explain it is but an anchor to a new hospital space dedicated to healthful living and wellness.... more
Davis Health System has recently launched a program aimed at promoting healthy eating habits through fresh-farmed foods.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of November 12, 2021, there are currently 6,727 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been no deaths reported since the last report (most likely attributed to yesterday’s state holiday) with a total of 4,610 deaths attributed to COVID-19. ... more
During Friday’s briefing, Gov. Jim Justice once again pleaded for more West Virginians who have already received their initial series of COVID-19 vaccine doses to seek out a booster shot as soon as possible.... more
On Friday, Gov. Justice reminded all West Virginians that online registration is now open for the third round of the “Do it for Babydog: Save a life, Change your life” vaccination sweepstakes.... more
Can at-home COVID-19 tests make holiday gatherings safer?... more
Mon Health Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital is sponsoring the Third Annual Gobble Gallop on Thanksgiving Day beginning at 9 a.m. at Jackson’s Mill. ... more
November is National Family Caregivers Month, but for Alzheimer’s caregivers, the emphasis on families and caregiving is year-round.... more
Meta Kirksey, RN, of Mon Health Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital, was recently honored with The DAISY Award® for Extraordinary Nurses. The award is part of the DAISY Foundation’s programs to recognize the super-human efforts nurses perform every day. This award was especially meaningful because Meta’s husband, Alberto, also won the award eleven years ago. ... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of November 10, 2021, there are currently 6,115 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 24 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,592 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital recognized National Radiologic Technology Week during the second week of November. This week is celebrated each year during the week of November 8th to commemorate the discovery of the x-ray by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen on November 8, 1895.... more
During Wednesday’s briefing, Gov. Jim Justice and medical experts once again stressed the importance of booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccine for West Virginians who were initially vaccinated several months ago.... more
James “Jim” Leer enlisted in the United States Navy and was off to boot camp in 1965, joining the military at age 20.... more
During the war in Afghanistan, military advancements provided unprecedented protection for service members in harm’s way. And although this has drastically improved survival for those injured in combat, it has also resulted in an increase in amputations and veterans living with debilitating injuries and disabilities.... more
West Virginia Junior College’s new Hybrid Online Nursing Program aims to solve rural healthcare disparities and worker shortages by bringing education opportunities to 19 rural counties in an innovative way.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of November 8, 2021, there are currently 6,318 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 30 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,548 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today applauded the Senate passage of legislation Tuesday evening that would require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to submit to Congress a report on the use of security cameras in VA medical centers.... more
As the holidays approach and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns about a potential spike in flu cases this year, it’s important that those who are eligible, healthy and feeling well make an appointment to donate blood. The American Red Cross continues to address an ongoing emergency blood shortage, and donors are urged to give now to combat the lowest blood supply levels at this time of year in more than a decade.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of November 5, 2021, there are currently 6,832 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 7 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,518 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey partnered with six other attorneys general to file a petition before the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals challenging the Biden Administration’s vaccine mandate for private sector employees.... more
Are COVID-19 boosters the same as the original vaccines?... more
Tens of millions of Americans who work at companies with 100 or more employees will need to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by Jan. 4 or get tested for the virus weekly under government rules issued Thursday.... more
Vaccinations finally are available to U.S. children as young as 5, to the relief of some parents even as others have questions or fears.... more
Pfizer Inc. said Friday that its experimental antiviral pill for COVID-19 cut rates of hospitalization and death by nearly 90% in high-risk adults, as the drugmaker joined the race for an easy-to-use medication to treat the coronavirus.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) and DHHR’s Bureau for Social Services are highlighting services available to children in foster care and increasing awareness of adoption issues as part of National Adoption Month.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of November 3, 2021, there are currently 6,635 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 15 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,490 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital will now provide COVID-19 testing Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at its testing trailer in front of the hospital. The trailer will be closed on Sundays. ... more
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) joined 40 of her colleagues Wednesday in moving to formally nullify President Joe Biden’s private sector vaccine mandate requirement for employees at private businesses with more than 100 employees. The rule, expected to be issued this week, will affect more than 80 million Americans and imposes $14,000 fines for persons who do not comply.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) highlighted positive effects from the temporary benefit increase for purchasing additional fruits and vegetables.... more
Your American Heart Association is excited for a new initiative for hunters across the Mountain State. During the month of November, the Association will launch its “Heart Healthy Hunting” campaign, bringing life-saving messaging to hunters in order to help prevent cardiac and stroke-related deaths.... more
During American Diabetes Month, Davis Medical Center Wound Care and Broaddus Hospital Wound Care want to remind people with diabetes that they are at a higher risk for non-healing foot wounds—and therefore amputations—than most Americans, and that a wound healing center can provide guidance for prevention and treatment.... more
The West Virginia Office of Medical Cannabis (OMC) will host a public sign up event for medical cannabis patients from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Thursday, November 4 at the old jail building behind the Randolph County Courthouse, 4 Randolph Avenue, Elkins, WV.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of November 1, 2021, there are currently 6,940 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 24 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,450 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital is now offering a free online varicose veins assessment. The assessment is provided by the St. Joseph’s Hospital Vein Care Clinic staffed by David Faber, MD and Kay Carpenter, NP-C.... more
On October 29, 2021, the FDA authorized the emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for the prevention of COVID-19 to include children 5 through 11 years of age. ... more
With national highway safety organizations sounding the alarm about an increase in speeding during the early months of the pandemic and launching programs to combat it, Erie Insurance recently commissioned a national survey to gauge drivers’ attitudes and behaviors regarding speeding.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), Office of Drug Control Policy and the Governor’s Council on Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment are hosting eight virtual public forums to allow residents to review and provide comment to the 2022 West Virginia Substance Use Response Plan.... more
At the onset of COVID-19, alcohol sales skyrocketed across the country. In the third week of March 2020, sales of alcohol increased by 55% with online increasing by 243%.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of October 29, 2021, there are currently 7,629 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 17 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,426 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
Is it OK to go trick-or-treating during the pandemic? It depends on the situation and your comfort level, but there are ways to minimize the risk of infection this Halloween...... more
COVID-19 vaccines in eligible populations. The agency is amending the emergency use authorizations (EUA) for COVID-19 vaccines to allow for the use of a single booster dose as follows:... more
In an advance announced this week, surgeons in New York successfully attached a kidney from a genetically modified pig to a deceased person and kept the organ functioning for two days. It is a significant step toward using pigs as organ donors for people who desperately need transplants.... more
The Women, Infants and Children Nutrition Program (WIC) is a supplemental foods program for pregnant, post-partum and breastfeeding women, infants, and children under the age of five.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of October 27, 2021, there are currently 7,478 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 30 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,346 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
With Thanksgiving and the holidays approaching, the American Red Cross urges donors to continue to make and keep appointments now and in the weeks ahead to help overcome the ongoing emergency blood shortage that has significantly impacted the nation’s blood supply.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is encouraging parents and caregivers to follow the ABCs of safe sleep practices as part of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Infant Safe Sleep Awareness Month.... more
The West Virginia Office of Medical Cannabis (OMC) will host a public sign up event for medical cannabis patients from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Thursday, November 4 at the old jail building behind the Randolph County Courthouse, 4 Randolph Avenue, Elkins, WV.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of October 25, 2021, there are currently 7,867 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 29 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,292 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provided the following local COVID-19 update on Monday, October 25, 2021.... more
Can new variants of the coronavirus keep emerging? Yes, as long as the virus that caused the pandemic keeps infecting people. But that doesn’t mean new variants will keep emerging as regularly, or that they’ll be more dangerous...... more
What is the “delta plus” variant? It’s a relative of the delta variant, identified by British scientists last month...... more
Halloween is a time for “trick or treat”, but dares and challenges can often lead to tricks, with no treats. Prepare teens to know what a reasonable dare is and what crosses the line into a scary or dangerous dare.... more
The Center for Organ Recovery & Education (CORE) hosted its 27th Annual A Special Place ceremony on Sunday, bringing together the families of the 577 organ, 2,347 tissue, and 1,505 cornea donors from western Pennsylvania and West Virginia who saved 1,453 lives and healed or restored sight to more than 150,000 others in 2019 and 2020—both record years for organ donation in the region.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of October 22, 2021, there are currently 8,746 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 25 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,263 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital recognized its pharmacy staff during National Pharmacy Week October 17 through the 23.... more
Can new variants of the coronavirus keep emerging? Yes, as long as the virus that caused the pandemic keeps infecting people. But that doesn’t mean new variants will keep emerging as regularly, or that they’ll be more dangerous...... more
Kyle Warner, Mon Health Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital Controller, has volunteered to be the Lewis County Real Men Wear Pink candidate for the third year in a row. ... more
Participants in this year’s Charleston Walk to End Alzheimer’s will be able to physically join forces in the fight to end Alzheimer’s.... more
Bonnie’s Bus, a 45-foot, state-of-the-art mobile mammography vehicle, will visit Upshur County Oct. 28-29, offering three-dimensional (3D) digital screening mammograms and breast care education to women.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of October 20, 2021, there are currently 8,469 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 74 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,219 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital is thanking its Quality and Infection Prevention staff during the week of October 18, 2021, in recognition of National Healthcare Quality and International Infection Prevention Week.... more
U.S. regulators on Wednesday signed off on extending COVID-19 boosters to Americans who got the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine and said anyone eligible for an extra dose can get a brand different from the one they received initially.... more
Kyle Warner, Mon Health Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital Controller, has volunteered to be the Lewis County Real Men Wear Pink candidate for the third year in a row. ... more
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a very real threat to anyone who uses natural gas in their home. We all know that in theory, but a recent experience really brought that lesson home for me.... more
Food companies are coming under renewed pressure to use less salt after U.S. regulators spelled out long-awaited guidelines aimed at reducing sodium levels in dozens of foods including condiments, cereals, french fries and potato chips.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of October 18, 2021, there are currently 9,033 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 28 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,134* deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital gave over 150 vaccinations for the flu on Thursday, October 14 at its first drive through flu clinic. The drive through clinic makes for an easy way for the community to receive the vaccine. ... more
What’s the latest advice on the type of mask I should wear? It depends on your situation, but health officials say it should cover your nose and mouth, and fit snugly so there aren’t any gaps on the sides of your face...... more
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) joined Senators Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), and James Lankford (R-Okla.) Oct. 14 in sending a letter urging the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to either work with Congress to eliminate direct and indirect remuneration (DIR) fees to help lower prescription drug prices for Medicare Part D beneficiaries or take administrative action to address the problem. ... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of October 15, 2021, there are currently 10,213 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 60 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 4,108 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
At 10:00 a.m. on October 14, 2021, Upshur County’s status on the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) County Alert System changed to the Gold level.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of October 13, 2021, there are currently 9,703 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been three deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 3,998 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital will hold a drive-through flu clinic on October 14 and 28, giving the community an easy way to receive the vaccine from the comfort of their own cars. The clinics run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.... more
During Wednesday’s press briefing, Gov. Jim Justice announced that he has amended his recent Special Session call to include a bill that would clarify that any government or private business that wishes to mandate the COVID-19 vaccine must also allow exemptions to that mandate for medical or religious reasons.... more
From the U.S. Food & Drug Administration What is VAERS? VAERS is a national vaccine safety surveillance program created as an outgrowth of the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986 (NCVIA) and is administered by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). VAERS collects and analyzes data from reports of adverse events following vaccination.... more
The U.S. will reopen its land borders to nonessential travel next month, ending a 19-month freeze due to the COVID-19 pandemic as the country moves to require all international visitors to be vaccinated against the coronavirus.... more
The percentage of adults reporting mental health issues is at least 5% higher in West Virginia than the national average with an estimated more than 300 people in the region affected by these conditions.... more
Liberty Mutual and Safeco Insurance are proud to announce that Davis Insurance Group has earned a 2021 Make More Happen Award, recognizing its exceptional volunteerism with The American Red Cross Central Appalachia Region, a nonprofit dedicated to preventing and alleviating human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of October 11, 2021, there are currently 10,561 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 41 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 3,976 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
Can I get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time? Yes, you can get the shots in the same visit.... more
The American Red Cross continues to experience an emergency blood shortage that has caused the blood supply to drop to the lowest post-summer level in at least six years.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital will hold a drive-through flu clinic on October 14 and 28, giving the community an easy way to receive the vaccine from the comfort of their own cars. ... more
The U.S. is gearing up in case of a bad flu season on top of the continuing COVID-19 crisis, with a plea Thursday for Americans to get vaccinated against both.... more
Gov. Jim Justice and members of the West Virginia COVID-19 pandemic response leadership team held another news briefing Thursday to update the public on the State’s latest pandemic response efforts.... more
Johnson & Johnson asked the Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday to allow extra shots of its COVID-19 vaccine as the U.S. government moves toward expanding its booster campaign to millions more vaccinated Americans.... more
The Food and Drug Administration is considering whether to allow COVID-19 vaccinations in children ages 5 to 11—using kid-sized doses.... more
The spread of COVID-19 vaccination requirements across the U.S. hasn't had the desired effect so far, with the number of Americans getting their first shots plunging in recent weeks. And some experts worry that the move to dispense boosters could just make matters worse.... more
Harrison County Courthouse Plaza will be the site of this Sunday’s North Central Walk to End Alzheimer’s as walkers gather in person on October 10 united in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of October 6, 2021, there are currently 11,331 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 65 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 3,839 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is alerting test users, caregivers, health care personnel, and the public of the potential for false positive results with certain lots of the Ellume COVID-19 Home Test, due to a recently identified manufacturing issue.... more
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) October 4, 2021 for the ACON Laboratories Flowflex COVID-19 Home Test, an over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 antigen test, which adds to the growing list of tests that can be used at home without a prescription.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of October 4, 2021, there are currently 12,284 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 47 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 3,769 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
The Women, Infants and Children Nutrition Program (WIC) is a supplemental foods program for pregnant, post-partum and breastfeeding women, infants, and children under the age of five.... more
California will enact the nation’s first coronavirus vaccine mandate for schoolchildren, Gov. Gavin Newsom said Friday, aiming to have all students in seventh through 12th grades vaccinated by next fall once the shots gain final federal approval for everyone 12 and over.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of October 1, 2021, there are currently 14,014 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 52 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 3,722 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
Our youth are our hope for the future. They, like us older people, aren’t fond of being told what or how to do...... more
Am I fully vaccinated without a COVID-19 vaccine booster? Yes, people who got a two-dose vaccine or the single-dose Johnson & Johnson shot are considered fully vaccinated—even without a booster.... more
A survey of Americans on President Joe Biden’s plan to require most workers to get either vaccinated or regularly tested for COVID-19 finds a deep and familiar divide: Democrats are overwhelmingly for it, while most Republicans are against it.... more
United Airlines says the number of employees facing termination for refusing to get vaccinated against COVID-19 has dropped nearly by half, to 320, after more of its 67,000 U.S. workers provided evidence of vaccination.... more
Drugmaker Merck said Friday that its experimental COVID-19 pill reduced hospitalizations and deaths by half in people recently infected with the coronavirus and that it would soon ask health officials in the U.S. and around the world to authorize its use.... more
While the U.S. remains focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to also be aware of flu season as we approach winter. Influenza (flu) viruses typically spread in fall and winter, with activity peaking between December and February. Getting vaccinated now can lower your chances of getting the flu.... more
A new research study at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center—Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) turns cancer scientists into molecular detectives, searching for clues for why certain cancers are able to spread and evolve by studying tissues collected within hours of death.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of September 29, 2021, there are currently 13,344 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 64 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 3,642 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital will hold a drive-through flu clinic on October 14 and 28, giving the community an easy way to receive the vaccine from the comfort of their own cars. The clinics run from 9 am to 4 pm each day.... more
In an effort to publish more timely data, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Office of Drug Control Policy (ODCP) has added monthly confirmed overdose deaths and deaths pending investigation to its Fatal Overdoses Dashboard.... more
Notebooks, pencils, backpacks, and lunch boxes—back to school season is more than these items, but a time of transitions and new routines. New and changing routines can lead to poisonings.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of September 27, 2021, there are currently 14,534 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 45 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 3,568 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
With the percentage of fully vaccinated West Virginians hospitalized for COVID-19 slowly creeping higher, Gov. Jim Justice took time during his briefing Monday to encourage all residents who qualify for a booster shot to get a booster shot.... more
Medical providers are expecting more flu cases this season as the use of mask wearing and social distancing have decreased.... more
An estimated 2,600 Los Angeles Police Department employees are citing religious objections to try to get out of the required COVID-19 vaccination. In Washington state, thousands of state workers are seeking similar exemptions.... more
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Thursday endorsed booster shots for millions of older or otherwise vulnerable Americans, opening a major new phase in the U.S vaccination drive against COVID-19.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of September 24, 2021, there are currently 16,223 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 31 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 3,523 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provided the following local COVID-19 update on Friday, September 24, 2021.... more
Is the delta variant of the coronavirus worse for kids? Experts say there’s no strong evidence that it makes children and teens sicker than earlier versions of the virus, although delta has led to a surge in infections among kids because it’s more contagious...... more
The last few months have been full of uncertainly and mixed emotions for West Virginians. In June, with many vaccinated, the COVID numbers were plunging and life was nearly back to normal. Then, the Delta variant hit. Rising cases, along with anger, blame, and political division, have contributed to increased stress.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of September 22, 2021, there are currently 15,280 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 26 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 3,467 deaths attributed to COVID-19.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provided the following local COVID-19 update on Wednesday, September 22, 2021.... more
People visit artist Suzanne Brennan Firstenberg’s “In America: Remember,” a temporary art installation made up of white flags to commemorate Americans who have died of COVID-19, on the National Mall in Washington, Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021. ... more
The Weston Rotary Club and Mon Health Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital will hold Blood Screening events on Saturday, September 25 and Saturday, October 2, from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the parking lot behind SJMH to allow for social distancing.... more
Jim Kaufman, President and CEO of the West Virginia Hospital Association, released the following statement regarding the Governor’s new “Saving Our Care” program.... more
President Joe Biden is set to announce that the United States is doubling its purchase of Pfizer’s COVID-19 shots to share with the world to 1 billion doses as he embraces the goal of vaccinating 70% of the global population within the next year.... more
The Biden administration is rolling out new international travel policies affecting Americans and noncitizens alike who want to fly into the U.S. The goal is to restore more normal air travel after 18 months of disruption caused by COVID-19.... more
CHARLESTON — The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of September 20, 2021, there are currently 21,490 active COVID-19 cases statewide. There have been 54 deaths reported since the last report, with a total of 3,424 deaths attributed to COVID-19. ... more
Gov. Justice announces “Saving Our Care” initiative to ensure stability of hospitals and nursing homes through Delta peak.... more
Pfizer said Monday its COVID-19 vaccine works for children ages 5 to 11 and that it will seek U.S. authorization for this age group soon—a key step toward beginning vaccinations for youngsters.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital is cancelling the Fall Rotary Blood Screenings scheduled for September, October and November.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of September 17, 2021, there have been 3,664,554 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 219,439 total cases and 3,370 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department will begin offering free COVID-19 testing, Monday, September 20, in Jawbone Park.... more
As Upshur County now leads the state in how quickly COVID infections are spreading, and West Virginia also leads the nation in highest positivity rate, St. Joseph’s Hospital is facing the challenges of dealing with the ever-increasing number of COVID patients.... more
During Friday’s briefing, Gov. Jim Justice announced that West Virginia has reached a new record high number of active COVID-19 cases for the entire pandemic.... more
Dealing the White House a stinging setback, a government advisory panel overwhelmingly rejected a plan Friday to give Pfizer COVID-19 booster shots across the board, and instead endorsed the extra vaccine dose only for those who are 65 or older or run a high risk of severe disease.... more
The average person doesn’t need a COVID-19 booster yet, an international group of scientists—including two top U.S. regulators—wrote Monday in a scientific journal.... more
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration doesn’t make many headlines. Charged with keeping America’s workplaces safe, it usually busies itself with tasks such as setting and enforcing standards for goggles, hardhats and ladders.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of September 15, 2021, there have been 3,624,248 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 214,984 total cases and 3,296 deaths.... more
During Wednesday’s briefing, Gov. Jim Justice reported that West Virginia has once again set a new record number of COVID-related hospitalizations for the entire pandemic, with 893 individuals currently in hospitals across the state.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital is pleased to welcome Danielle Ware, DO to its team of family practice providers. She is joining the St. Joseph’s Rural Health Clinic in Building C, first floor, and will be providing care for patients of all ages.... more
Help strike back after a disaster strike. The American Red Cross needs volunteers to help on the ground in recovery efforts, and blood donors to roll up a sleeve to maintain a stable blood supply in the face of emergencies.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of September 13, 2021, there have been 3,597,992 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 211,706 total cases and 3,238 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provided the following local COVID-19 update on Monday, September 13, 2021.... more
At the onset of COVID-19, alcohol sales skyrocketed across the country. In the third week of March 2020, sales of alcohol increased by 55% with online increasing by 243%.... more
The Food and Drug Administration’s vaccine chief said Friday the agency will rapidly evaluate COVID-19 vaccinations for younger children as soon as it gets the needed data — and won’t cut corners.... more
Donors are needed for the Blood Drive scheduled for Wednesday, September 15. ... more
The statewide Healthy Grandfamilies program has partnered with the Governor’s Office to offer $150 vaccine incentives to grandfamilies raising grandchildren... more
It’s one of the stranger, lesser-known aspects of U.S. health care — the striking, milky-blue blood of horseshoe crabs is a critical component of tests to ensure injectable medications such as coronavirus vaccines aren’t contaminated.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of September 10, 2021, there have been 3,544,131 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 205,783 total cases and 3,207 deaths.... more
What is the mu variant? It’s a version of the coronavirus that was first identified in Colombia in January and has since caused isolated outbreaks in South America, Europe and the United States.... more
Can kids get “long COVID” after coronavirus infections? Yes, but studies indicate they’re less likely than adults to be affected by symptoms that persist, recur or begin a month or more after infection.... more
Andrew Crapuchettes, CEO of RedBalloon.work, a job board website for businesses without vaccine requirements, issued the following comment in reaction to President Biden’s announcement today that businesses with over 100 employees will be required to have their employees get vaccinated or test weekly.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of September 8, 2021, there have been 3,503,676 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 201,660 total cases and 3,169 deaths.... more
As COVID-19 cases across the state and country continue to rise, WVU Medicine Emergency Medicine encourages those seeking treatment to utilize their local urgent care centers when possible.... more
This September, West Virginians can learn how to save lives for National Suicide Prevention Month, Week (September 5-11), and Day (September 10).... more
The Women, Infants and Children Nutrition Program (WIC) is a supplemental foods program for pregnant, post-partum and breastfeeding women, infants, and children under the age of five.... more
HealthNet Aeromedical Services, HealthTeam Critical Care Transport, Monongalia EMS, and Star City EMS are the first emergency services agencies in West Virginia to require their employees to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of September 6, 2021, there have been 3,491,052 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 199,300 total cases and 3,148 deaths.... more
Why should one get vaccinated and wear a mask in indoor settings and businesses?... more
Upshur County Schools reminds of the steps for tracking cases... more
Davis Health System (DHS) announced Thursday that they will require all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19... more
With the number of COVID-related hospitalizations and ICU patients in West Virginia at their highest points since the pandemic’s biggest wave in January—and still climbing—Gov. Justice continued pleading for more West Virginians to get vaccinated.... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $611,003 in funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to support research related to Alzheimer’s disease at West Virginia University (WVU). ... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of September 3, 2021, there have been 3,443,857 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 194,863 total cases and 3,124 deaths.... more
Here are the most current numbers for the Upshur – Buckhannon Health Department as of 3:30 PM.... more
Thursday marked the first of six weeks of prize giveaways as part of “Do it for Babydog: Round 2.” Vaccinated West Virginians have five more chances to win in Round 2 of the “Do it for Babydog: Save a life, Change your life” Vaccination Sweepstakes.... more
What can employers do if workers avoid COVID-19 vaccines? They can require vaccination and fire employees who don’t comply, or take other actions such as withholding company perks or charging extra for health insurance.... more
A New Jersey woman calling herself the AntiVaxMomma on Instagram sold several hundred fake COVID-19 vaccination cards at $200 a pop to New York City-area jab dodgers, including people working in hospitals and nursing homes, prosecutors said Tuesday.... more
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) joined a bipartisan group in sending a letter—led by Senators Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa)—calling on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to swiftly develop and conduct outreach to veterans of the Global War on Terrorism—especially those who served in Afghanistan—to provide them with mental health resources. ... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of September 1, 2021, there have been 3,408,287 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 191,156 total cases and 3,106 deaths.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital will have testing for COVID available on Labor Day, Monday, September 6, at its testing trailer in front of the hospital.... more
A potential HIV vaccine being developed by Johnson & Johnson did not provide protection against the virus in a mid-stage study, the drugmaker said Tuesday.... more
As fall approaches, the American Red Cross urges eligible donors to help end the ongoing critical need for blood and kick off the season with a blood donation. The Red Cross needs donors of all blood types to give now and help ensure lifesaving transfusions are on the sidelines for those who rely on them.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital is pleased to welcome Daniel Brito, MD to its Cardiology Clinic staffed by the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of August 30, 2021, there have been 3,385,377 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 188,660 total cases and 3,074 deaths.... more
On Friday, Gov. Justice welcomed United States Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona onto his virtual COVID-19 briefing, as he and West Virginia Superintendent of Schools Clayton Burch announced that back-to-school vaccination clinics will be held this fall in all 55 counties.... more
Half of American workers are in favor of vaccine requirements at their workplaces, according to a new poll, at a time when such mandates gain traction following the federal government’s full approval of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine.... more
What is a COVID-19 vaccine passport, and do I need one? “Vaccine passports” are digital or paper documents that show you were vaccinated against COVID-19, and could help you get into a growing number of places.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), Bureau for Behavioral Health was awarded one of four grants under the State Pilot Grant Program for Treatment for Pregnant and Postpartum Women (PPW-PLT) from the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of August 27, 2021, there have been 3,345,070 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 184,682 total cases and 3,054 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following local COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 27, 2021.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital does not provide rapid testing for COVID-19. There are two types of PCR testing offered at St. Joseph’s. The free state testing does not require a physician’s order and you will receive your results in approximately three to five business days.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital Emergency Department is expanding its capacity for those ill from COVID infection or other serious illnesses.... more
With the increase in COVID-19 transmissions, hospitalizations and premature deaths, the West Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Administration (WVABCA) is joining Governor Jim Justice and the COVID-19 Joint Interagency Task Force in their efforts to educate and protect the public from this highly contagious virus.... more
Following Monday’s announcement by the West Virginia Hospital Association that it supports hospitals and health systems to require COVID-19 vaccination of their employees with local factors and circumstances shaping how and when their policies are implemented, as well as the FDA’s approval of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, the West Virginia University Health System announced (Aug. 23) that it will require all of its employees to be fully vaccinated with both doses of the two-dose series by Oct. 31, 2021.... more
Mon Health is committed to making our hospitals and facilities safer for every patient, visitor, and staff member. ... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of August 25, 2021, there have been 3,315,393 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 181,906 total cases and 3,036 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department is providing “vaccine breakthrough” case updates, which tracks these cases of COVID-19 from Sunday to Saturday each week.... more
Military troops must immediately begin to get the COVID-19 vaccine, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a memo Wednesday, ordering service leaders to “impose ambitious timelines for implementation.” ... more
What does full approval of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine mean? It means Pfizer’s shot for people 16 and older has now undergone the same rigorous testing and regulatory review as dozens of other long-established vaccines.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital is cancelling the blood screening scheduled for Saturday, August 28, due to the increase in COVID infections. ... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of August 23, 2021, there have been 3,297,722 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 180,019 total cases and 3,016 deaths.... more
Governor Justice continues push to expedite federal approval of extra vaccine dose for high risk West Virginians.... more
Monday, the FDA approved the first COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine has been known as the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, and will now be marketed as Comirnaty (koe-mir’-na-tee), for the prevention of COVID-19 disease in individuals 16 years of age and older. ... more
Do I need a booster if I got the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?... more
What is being done to distribute COVID-19 vaccines globally?... more
The U.S. government on Friday extended a ban on nonessential travel along the borders with Canada and Mexico to slow the spread of COVID-19 despite increasing pressure to lift the restriction. ... more
HealthNet Aeromedical Services is pleased to announce that the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) and the American College of Emergency Physicians have selected the program as the recipient of the 2021 Safety in EMS Award.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of August 20, 2021, there have been 3,269,169 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 177,533 total cases and 3,008 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following local COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 20, 2021.... more
During Fridays’ briefing, Gov. Justice announced a second round of the “Do it for Babydog” vaccination sweepstakes as the state continues to push the importance of vaccination to the younger population. ... more
From babies to teenagers, people need vaccines throughout childhood to provide them with immunity from potentially dangerous infectious diseases. If individuals choose not to vaccinate themselves or their children, some diseases that are now rare or nonexistent in the United States may resurface.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of August 18, 2021, there have been 3,246,888 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 175,639 total cases and 2,997 deaths.... more
During Wednesday’s press briefing, Gov. Jim Justice announced that the Biden Administration has authorized a third COVID-19 vaccine dose for Americans who are fully vaccinated. This plan is still subject to approval by the CDC and FDA.... more
U.S. health officials may soon recommend COVID-19 booster shots for fully vaccinated Americans. A look at what we know about boosters and how they could help fight the coronavirus.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital is expanding its testing hours in response to the increase in COVID-19 infections. If you think you may have been exposed, testing is available at the drive-through trailer set up outside of the hospital.... more
The Biden administration will require that nursing home staff be vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition for those facilities to continue receiving federal Medicare and Medicaid funding.... more
Blood donors are needed for the September Blood Drive sponsored by St. Joseph’s Hospital and the Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur.... more
The West Virginia Office of Medical Cannabis (OMC) will host a public sign up event for medical cannabis patients from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 25 at the West Virginia University School of Public Health facility, located inside the Mountaineer Mall at 5000 Greenbag Road, in Morgantown.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of August 16, 2021, there have been 3,230,456 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 173,479 total cases and 2,978 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following local COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 16, 2021.... more
During Monday’s press briefing, Gov. Jim Justice announced that West Virginia has begun administering a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to certain immunocompromised people.... more
The Upshur Cooperative Parish House and St. Joseph’s Hospital will hold a free vaccine clinic for COVID-19 on Monday, August 30 outside the Parish House located at 68 College Avenue in Buckhannon. ... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), Bureau for Public Health recently issued a health alert to health providers and other partners with recommendations for an additional dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines for immunocompromised individuals.... more
Do the COVID-19 vaccines affect my chances of pregnancy? No, there’s no evidence that any vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines, influence your chances of getting pregnant despite a myth suggesting otherwise....... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of August 13, 2021, there have been 3,207,734 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 171,950 total cases and 2,976 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following local COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Friday, August 13, 2021.... more
Governor Justice prepares for offering third dose to immonocompromized.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital in Buckhannon is providing information to the public as COVID infections increase in Upshur County and West Virginia, primarily due to the delta variant. ... more
Americans at high risk from COVID-19 because of severely weakened immune systems are now allowed to get a third vaccination in hopes of better protection as government advisers grappled with exactly who qualifies.... more
On Monday, September 13, Mon Health Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital (SJMH), in Weston, will offer a free vein screening. The screening provides information about the vein health of the patient and whether further service is needed to alleviate any problems. Ferdinand C. Martinez, MD will conduct the screening.... more
U.S. regulators say transplant recipients and others with severely weakened immune systems can get an extra dose of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines to better protect them as the delta variant continues to surge.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of August 11, 2021, there have been 3,189,347 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 171,202 total cases and 2,974 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following local COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 11, 2021.... more
Due to the rising number of COVID cases in Upshur County, St. Joseph’s Hospital is re-implementing stricter patient and visitor guidelines in order to protect patients, staff, and the community. ... more
The Hospitals of the Mon Health System (MHS) collaborate throughout the year with The Center for Organ Recovery & Education (CORE) to provide hope for recipients, and to make a difference in patients’ lives. CORE named August 1, 2021 as West Virginia Donor Day. The date was specifically selected because eight lives can be saved by just one donor, hence 8/1.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), Bureau for Public Health, along with the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) presented final recommendations Tuesday from the CDC regarding the HIV outbreak in Kanawha County.... more
One-fourth of all people who have a leg amputated below the knee will be dead within five years of the operation. If the amputation is above the knee, the mortality rate jumps to one-half.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of August 9, 2021, there have been 3,176,205 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 170,199 total cases and 2,972 deaths.... more
Can I get ‘long COVID’ if I’m infected after vaccination? It’s unclear, but researchers are studying the chances of long-term symptoms developing in anyone who might get infected after vaccination.... more
The physicians of Mon Health Heart & Vascular Center continue to bring the latest advancements in cardiac care to locations close to home. The newest addition of the Center is Stephanie Barker, Nurse Practitioner, now practicing at the Heart & Vascular location in Weston.... more
The Pentagon will require members of the U.S. military to get the COVID-19 vaccine by Sept. 15, according to a memo obtained by The Associated Press. That deadline could be pushed up if the vaccine receives final FDA approval or infection rates continue to rise.... more
Local physician Anne Banfield, MD, has joined fellow health advocates in asking lawmakers to eliminate the “tampon tax and period poverty”. Three states have passed laws to remove sales taxes on period-related products in 2021, 27 states still tax these items.... more
New innovation that holds promise to fight lung cancer is now in use at Mon Health, with Dr. Parag Chaudhari’s first three robotic bronchoscopy cases successfully completed at Mon Health Medical Center.... more
Ever wonder if Cannabidiol (CBD) oil affects driving ability? If so, we need your help with a driving simulation study!... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of August 6, 2021, there have been 3,158,359 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 169,162 total cases and 2,965 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following local COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Friday, August 6, 2021.... more
The COVID-19 pandemic presented an immense challenge for West Virginia. Of the state’s 55 counties, 54 are classified as, at least in part, health care shortage areas.... more
U.S. regulators took action Wednesday that will make it easier to get a cheaper, near-copy of a brand-name insulin at the drugstore.... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $6,653,952 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for the Violence and Injury Prevention Program: Overdose Data to Action program through the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR).... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of August 4, 2021, there have been 3,144,242 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 168,330 total cases and 2,956 deaths. ... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following local COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 4, 2021.... more
West Virginians now have several extra days to get their vaccine and register for a chance to win in the final prize drawing of the “Do it for Babydog” Vaccination Sweepstakes.... more
What should I know about the delta variant? It’s the most contagious coronavirus mutant so far in the pandemic, but COVID-19 vaccines still provide strong protection against it...... more
New York City will soon require proof of COVID-19 vaccinations for anyone who wants to dine indoors at a restaurant, see a performance or go to the gym, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Tuesday, making it the first big city in the U.S. to impose such restrictions.... more
On July 30, 2021, FDA revised the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) (PDF) for REGEN-COV (casirivimab and imdevimab, administered together) authorizing REGEN-COV for emergency use as post-exposure prophylaxis (prevention) for COVID-19 in adults and pediatric individuals (12 years of age and older weighing at least 40 kg) who are at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, including hospitalization or death.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), Bureau for Public Health, along with the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) presented final recommendations Tuesday from the CDC regarding the HIV outbreak in Kanawha County.... more
In another dispiriting setback for the nation’s efforts to stamp out the coronavirus, scientists who studied a big COVID-19 outbreak in Massachusetts concluded that vaccinated people who got so-called breakthrough infections carried about the same amount of the coronavirus as those who did not get the shots.... more
Do I need to get tested for COVID-19 if I’m vaccinated? Yes, if you’ve been around someone who has COVID-19....... more
Israeli health authorities began administering coronavirus booster shots Friday to people over 60 who’ve already received both does of a vaccine, in a bid to combat a recent spike in cases.... more
U.S. regulators took action Wednesday that will make it easier to get a cheaper, near-copy of a brand-name insulin at the drugstore. ... more
Gov. Justice announced Thursday that the State of West Virginia is launching the first statewide program in the country to test and measure antibody levels among vaccinated individuals.... more
More than 107,000 people are currently waiting for a life-saving organ transplant in the United States, including 500 West Virginians.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of July 30, 2021, there have been 3,120,149 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 167,016 total cases and 2,946 deaths. ... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following local COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Friday, July 30, 2021.... more
During Thursday’s briefing, Gov. Justice announced that the State of West Virginia is launching the first statewide program in the country to test and measure antibody levels among vaccinated individuals.... more
Should vaccinated people mask up with COVID-19 cases rising?... more
New York will require state employees to get vaccinated against the coronavirus by Labor Day or undergo weekly tests for COVID-19, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Wednesday. “It’s smart, it’s fair and it’s in everyone’s interest,” Cuomo said in a Zoom call with the nonprofit Association for a Better New York.... more
The American Red Cross has an emergency need for lifesaving blood amid the ongoing severe blood shortage. Blood donations continue to be critical to meet hospital demand and the public is urged to make an appointment to give now. ... more
West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey issued the following statement as closing arguments concluded in the landmark opioid trial involving Cabell County and the City of Huntington. ... more
More than 107,000 people are currently waiting for a life-saving organ transplant in the United States, including 500 West Virginians. But only 30% of West Virginians are registered organ donors.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of July 28, 2021, there have been 3,110,060 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 166,493 total cases and 2,939 deaths. ... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following local COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 28, 2021. Vaccination clinics are available on Wednesdays, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome and Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines will be offered.... more
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention changed course Tuesday on some masking guidelines, recommending that even vaccinated people return to wearing masks indoors in parts of the U.S. where the delta variant of the coronavirus is fueling infection surges.... more
The United States served notice Monday that it will keep existing COVID-19 travel restrictions on international travel in place for now due to concerns about the surging infection rate because of the delta variant.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of July 26, 2021, there have been 3,101,280 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 166,108 total cases and 2,936 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following local COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Monday, July 26, 2021. Vaccination clinics are available on Wednesdays, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome and Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines will be offered.... more
Should vaccinated people mask up with COVID-19 cases rising? It depends on your situation, but masking in public can provide another layer of protection and help prevent the virus from spreading to others who aren’t protected.... more
Most Americans who haven’t been vaccinated against COVID-19 say they are unlikely to get the shots and doubt they would work against the aggressive delta variant despite evidence they do, according to a new poll that underscores the challenges facing public health officials amid soaring infections in some states.... more
Drug overdoses have become the leading cause of accidental death in the United States, with heroin and other opiates being the largest contributor. If your loved one is struggling with drug abuse of any kind, now is the time to get them the help they need.... more
Improper disposal of unwanted or expired medications can pose a serious risk to our waters and families. It can even find its way into our drinking water, so do not flush medication down the toilet or drain.... more
Across most of the United States, states are struggling to quell a worsening opiate epidemic. While this is happening, one problem continues to rage on in states across the country. ... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) introduced the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act, legislation that would create research and public education programs to support women suffering from uterine fibroids.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of July 23, 2021, there have been 3,090,636 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 165,702 total cases and 2,936 deaths.... more
During Thursday’s briefing, Gov. Jim Justice reported that there are now 35 confirmed cases of the COVID-19 Delta variant in West Virginia, up from 22 such cases as of his previous briefing on Tuesday.... more
What is a COVID-19 vaccine “breakthrough” case? It’s when a fully vaccinated person gets infected with the coronavirus. A small number of such cases are expected and health officials say they’re not a cause for alarm.... more
From the field to the lab, three West Virginia Wesleyan College students worked this summer to identify Upshur County ticks and check them for Lyme bacteria.... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) introduced the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act, legislation that would create research and public education programs to support women suffering from uterine fibroids.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of July 21, 2021, there have been 3,081,025 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 165,398 total cases and 2,920 deaths.... more
A WVU nurse’s life was changed forever Wednesday when she received a visit at work from Gov. Jim Justice.... more
The West Virginia Office of Medical Cannabis (OMC) will host a public signup event for medical cannabis patients from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday, July 26 in the first floor conference room of the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department, 108 Lee Street, East, Charleston, WV 25301.... more
Sunshine and warm weather means more people enjoying the outdoors. Following a few safety tips from the West Virginia Poison Center can help keep people poison safe while spending time outside.... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) announced the reformation of the Assisting Caregivers Today (ACT) Caucus on July 20.... more
Sunshine and warm weather means more people enjoying the outdoors. Following a few safety tips from the West Virginia Poison Center can help keep people poison safe while spending time outside.... more
CHARLESTON — The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of July 19, 2021, there have been 3,074,024 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 165,177 total cases and 2,919 deaths.... more
BUCKHANNON — The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Monday, July 19, 2021.... more
It is that time, West Virginia. Time to shine your light to illuminate the path for others.... more
Johnson & Johnson said Wednesday that it is recalling five of its sunscreen products after some samples were found to contain low levels of benzene, a chemical that can cause cancer with repeated exposure.... more
FAIRMONT– One West Virginian’s life was changed forever Wednesday when he received a visit at work from Gov. Jim Justice.... more
CHARLESTON — The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of July 16, 2021, there have been 3,064,208 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 164,933 total cases and 2,919 deaths. ... more
NEW YORK (AP) — Overdose deaths soared to a record 93,000 last year in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. government reported Wednesday.... more
The FDA announced revisions to the vaccine recipient and vaccination provider fact sheets for the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) COVID-19 Vaccine on July 13, to include information pertaining to an observed increased risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) following vaccination. ... more
BERLIN (AP) — The head of the World Health Organization acknowledged it was premature to rule out a potential link between the COVID-19 pandemic and a laboratory leak, and he said Thursday he is asking China to be more transparent as scientists search for the origins of the coronavirus.... more
Just because Pfizer wants to offer COVID-19 vaccine boosters doesn’t mean people will be lining up anytime soon—U.S. and international health authorities say that for now, the fully vaccinated seem well protect... more
CHARLESTON — West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey issued the following statement on the news that over 93,331 people lost their lives last year to drug overdose, the highest number ever.... more
CHARLESTON — After issuing an administrative order on July 2, 2021 to the Clarksburg Water Board, Dr. Ayne Amjad, State Health Officer and Commissioner of the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources’ (DHHR) Bureau for Public Health, today issued a notice of violation for failure of compliance.... more
COLUMBUS, Ohio — A novel method of gene therapy is helping children born with a rare genetic disorder called AADC deficiency that causes severe physical and developmental disabilities. ... more
BUCKHANNON — Improper disposal of unwanted or expired medications can pose a serious risk to our waters and families.... more
CHARLESTON — Senate President Craig Blair, R-Berkeley, congratulated Dr. Rahul Gupta for his nomination to serve as President Joe Biden’s Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy.... more
CHARLESTON — The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of July 14, 2021, there have been 3,056,269 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 164,763 total cases and 2,916 deaths.... more
During Tuesday’s briefing, Gov. Jim Justice yet again pleaded with West Virginians who have not yet been vaccinated against COVID-19 to do so, noting that cases of the dangerous Delta variant continue to rise across the state. ... more
Local residents Mary Hull and Joyce Rohr were among the most recent winners announced in the fourth prize giveaway of the “Do it for Babydog: Save a life, Change your life” Vaccination Sweepstakes this week.... more
The American Red Cross continues to experience a severe blood shortage and donors of all blood types—especially type O—are urged to make an appointment to give now. ... more
The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) announced its latest initiative to encourage students, teachers and staff to be vaccinated.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of July 12, 2021, there have been 3,048,932 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 164,625 total cases and 2,909 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Monday, July 12, 2021. Vaccination clinics are available on Wednesdays, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome and Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines will be offered.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are partnering to assist the Clarksburg Water System in their efforts to identify and test older homes with lead service lines that may cause elevated lead levels in drinking water.... more
Mon Health Equipment and Supplies and a national leader in durable medical equipment, DASCO Home Medical Equipment, have entered a joint venture to build a stronger more expansive company to better benefit the communities we serve across North Central West Virginia.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), as part of its ongoing partnership with Shatterproof, is collecting information from addiction treatment providers for ATLAS (Addiction Treatment Locator, Assessment, and Standards Platform).... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of July 9, 2021, there have been 3,039,147 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 164,465 total cases and 2,908 deaths.... more
Do I need to take precautions at hotels if I’m vaccinated? Most people won’t need to, but it depends on your situation.... more
FDA authorized the use, under the emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine, of an additional batch of vaccine drug substance manufactured at the Emergent facility.... more
Davis Health System hosted a grand opening on Thursday for its newly constructed walk-in clinic and pharmacy in Davis, WV. Guests were able to tour the two new facilities, meet the staff, enjoy live music, and enter a raffle for door prizes. The event was held on-site at the Shop-N-Save Express in Davis.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of July 7, 2021, there have been 3,030,600 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 164,346 total cases and 2,901 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 7, 2021.... more
St. Joseph’s Hospital will be providing free screenings and health information at Festival Fridays in Jawbone Park on Friday, July 9th.... more
Gov. Justice announces over 1 million West Virginians have now received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.... more
With the arrival of the highly transmissible Delta variant in West Virginia, the hospitals and clinic locations of Mon Health System are stressing the importance of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. ... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $1,070,880 for a STD prevention and control program through the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR).... more
The FDA is revoking the Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for non-NIOSH-approved disposable respirators (revocation effective July 6, 2021) and the EUAs for decontamination and bioburden reduction systems (revocation effective June 30, 2021).... more
Gov. Jim Justice announced Wednesday the winners of 47 prizes, including a pair of college scholarships, as part of the 3rd prize giveaway of the “Do it for Babydog: Save a life, Change your life” Vaccination Sweepstakes.... more
In the weeks since a new Alzheimer’s drug was approved, hopeful patients have bombarded Dr. Alireza Atri with calls and emails about a treatment that has sparked both excitement and skepticism.... more
Boston Scientific, the developer of the innovative WATCHMAN FLX device that reduces the risk of stroke for atrial fibrillation (AFib) patients has chosen Mon Health Medical Center as the first hospital to participate in a new CHAMPION-AF clinical trial. ... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $1,249,080 to the West Virginia Adjutant General’s Office through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on Wednesday. ... more
Wilson Martino Dental, TLC Dental and The Smile Defenders are providing a Free Dental Day for Kids during the month of August!... more
House Speaker Roger Hanshaw, R-Clay, has announced the formation of a workgroup dedicated to utilizing every tool at West Virginia’s disposal to help reduce hunger throughout the state.... more
PARKERSBURG — On Wednesday, July 7, from 1 p.m.-7 p.m., representatives will be available for free, in-person ACA health insurance enrollment help at the Fort Boreman Room of the Judge Donald F. Black Courthouse Annex at 317 Market St, Parkersburg, WV 26101. This event will be hosted by WV for Affordable Health Care, Health Care for All WV, and WV Navigator, a federally funded non-profit program.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of July 2, 2021, there have been 3,016,020 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 164,149 total cases and 2,899 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Friday, July 2, 2021.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department’s Registered Sanitarian Chris Garrett will be starting the monthly Food Handlers Class back up beginning Monday, July 12, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. at the Upshur County Senior Center.... more
Will one dose of a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine protect me? Yes, but not nearly as much as if you had both doses.... more
During his latest briefing, Gov. Jim Justice recapped his journey across the state to surprise the winners of the three biggest prizes given away as part of the second round of the “Do it or Babydog: Save a life, Change your life” Vaccination Sweepstakes.... more
West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey encouraged consumers to make safe, sensible decisions as they celebrate with fireworks during the Independence Day weekend.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), Bureau for Children and Families began accepting school clothing allowance applications on July 1, 2021, for eligible children enrolled in West Virginia schools. ... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of June 30, 2021, there have been 3,008,327 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 164,041 total cases and 2,891 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 30, 2021.... more
Wednesday, Gov. Jim Justice announced the winners of 47 prizes, including a pair of college scholarships, as part of the second prize giveaway of the “Do it for Babydog: Save a life, Change your life” Vaccination Sweepstakes.... more
Gov. Jim Justice gave a Frankford woman the surprise of a lifetime Wednesday, presenting her with the keys to a brand-new, custom-outfitted truck as part of the “Do it for Babydog: Save a life, Change your life” Vaccination Sweepstakes.... more
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) June 24, 2021 for the drug Actemra (tocilizumab) for the treatment of hospitalized adults and pediatric patients (2 years of age and older) who are receiving systemic corticosteroids and require supplemental oxygen, non-invasive or invasive mechanical ventilation, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).... more
259STAT and Community Care Pharmacy will host a public grand opening event at their new location on July 8, 2021. The celebration will be held from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the parking lot of the Davis Shop-N-Save Express, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11:30 a.m. ... more
Legal Aid of WV now has Community Navigators who can assist low-income West Virginians, particularly those who lost jobs due to COVID-19, with completing forms, reviewing applications, and processing requests.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of June 28, 2021, there have been 3,001,257 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 163,967 total cases and 2,878 deaths. The active cases are below 1,500 which is the first time since May 18, 2020.... more
Health Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital (SJMH) is proud to be awarded a Five-Star Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating for 2021 from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). SJMH is one of only two hospitals in West Virginia to receive this designation.... more
For those trying to help a loved one who is experiencing substance use disorder, it can feel as though you’re alone. You are not alone. Help is available.... more
The American Civil Liberties Union of West Virginia (ACLU-WV) filed suit June 25 in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia to stop a new law that could significantly worsen the nation’s worst HIV outbreak.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of June 25, 2021, there have been 2,990,975 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 163,804 total cases and 2,876 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Friday, June 25, 2021. ... more
Nearly all COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. now are in people who weren’t vaccinated, a staggering demonstration of how effective the shots have been and an indication that deaths per day—now down to under 300—could be practically zero if everyone eligible got the vaccine.... more
What should I know about the delta variant? It’s a version of the coronavirus that has been found in more than 80 countries since it was first detected in India. ... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), Bureau for Public Health met with local and federal partners June 24 to share preliminary findings from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding the HIV outbreak in Kanawha County. ... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of June 23, 2021, there have been 2,982,657 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 163,689 total cases and 2,872 deaths.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the West Virginia Department of Education have received approval from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to issue P-EBT benefits to eligible children this summer.... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $300,000 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for Recovery Point of Huntington on Tuesday.... more
HealthNet Aeromedical Services has renewed its in-network agreement with the West Virginia Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA). The provider network is managed by UMR, the state’s third-party administrator, on PEIA’s behalf. ... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) introduced the Improving Mental Health Access from the Emergency Department Act, legislation to improve the way patients receive care for mental illness in emergency departments.... more
While the registration deadline to be eligible to win in the first prize drawing on Sunday has passed, all vaccinated West Virginians are still able and encouraged to register online for the Governor’s “Do it for Babydog: Save a life, Change your life” vaccination lottery. Additional prize drawings will be held every week through August 4.... more
Can you mix and match two-dose COVID-19 vaccines? It’s likely safe and effective, but researchers are still gathering data to be sure.... more
The West Virginia University Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI) announced on June 14 the first procedure in West Virginia and Pennsylvania, and among the first in the U.S., to use new deep brain stimulation (DBS) technology that has the potential to improve the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, tremor, dystonia, and other movement disorders.... more
Dementia risks among veterans will be the topic of a statewide virtual forum put on by the Alzheimer’s Association on June 29.... more
Battling childhood cancer can be traumatizing for children, their families, and caregivers. The challenges brought on by the disease itself and the medicines required to treat it can take a considerable toll. But there are other challenges that can stand in the way of getting the best treatment available. ... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) and Pacify, a health technology company that provides 24/7 infant feeding support to new and expecting parents, announced the first Diversity in Lactation Consulting scholarship winner.... more
Legal Aid of WV now has four Community Navigators who can assist low-income West Virginians, particularly those who lost jobs due to COVID-19, with completing forms, reviewing applications, and processing requests.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of June 16, 2021, there have been 2,955,717 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 163,311 total cases and 2,861 deaths.... more
The U.S. death toll from COVID-19 topped 600,000 on Tuesday, even as the vaccination drive has drastically brought down daily cases and fatalities and allowed the country to emerge from the gloom and look forward to summer.... more
Following careful review and deliberation, FDA is taking important steps that will allow a critically needed supply of the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 Vaccine to be made available.... more
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and 14 of her Senate colleagues this week reintroduced the Hearing Protection Act (HPA). The legislation would reclassify suppressors to regulate them like a regular firearm, benefitting recreational gun users and sportsmen and women by providing better access to hearing protection equipment.... more
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and a bipartisan group of senators reintroduced their legislation to update a current loophole in Medicare policy that would help protect seniors from high medical costs for the skilled nursing care they require after hospitalization.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of June 14, 2021, there have been 2,947,986 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 163,144 total cases and 2,853 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Monday, June 14, 2021.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), Bureau for Behavioral Health (BBH) has awarded $425,000 in grant funding to the Marshall University Research Corporation (MURC) to pilot the WV Behavioral Health Workforce and Health Equity Training Center. ... more
Congressman Alex X. Mooney (WV-02) announced Friday $2,064,465 in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) grants to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) for Black Lung and Coal Miner clinics across the state.... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), and a bipartisan group of their colleagues recently introduced legislation to protect consumers and small businesses by holding Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) accountable for retroactively assessing fees on pharmacies.... more
West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey decried the Biden administration’s recent move to weaken border security writing Monday that he fears the action will increase the amount of lethal fentanyl pouring into West Virginia.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of June 11, 2021, there have been 2,936,873 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 162,939 total cases and 2,849 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Friday, June 11, 2021. ... more
During Thursday’s press briefing, Gov. Jim Justice announced that over 60.1% of all West Virginians who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine have now received at least one dose. To date, 936,453 of 1,557,837 vaccine-eligible West Virginians have received their first shot.... more
Why do some people get side effects after COVID-19 vaccines? Temporary side effects including headache, fatigue and fever are signs the immune system is revving up—a normal response to vaccines. And they’re common.... more
Johnson & Johnson said Thursday that U.S. regulators extended the expiration date on millions of doses of its COVID-19 vaccine by six weeks.... more
Congressman Alex X. Mooney (WV-02) announced $223,410 in grant funding on Thursday from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) awarded to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR).... more
Government health officials on Monday approved the first new drug for Alzheimer’s disease in nearly 20 years, disregarding warnings from independent advisers that the much-debated treatment hasn’t been shown to help slow the brain-destroying disease.... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) this week introduced the Increasing Access to Quality Cardiac Rehabilitation Care Act of 2021. ... more
The Women, Infants and Children Nutrition Program (WIC) is a supplemental foods program for pregnant, post-partum and breastfeeding women, infants, and children under the age of five.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of June 9, 2021, there have been 2,961,098 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 162,726 total cases and 2,846 deaths.... more
The Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department provides the following COVID-19 update as of 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 9, 2021.... more
During Tuesday’s briefing, Gov. Jim Justice announced that just four days after online registration opened for the Governor’s “Do it for Babydog: Save a life, Change a life” vaccination lottery, more than 70,000 West Virginians have already registered to win one of several major prizes that will be given away in the upcoming sweepstakes.... more
WorkForce West Virginia warns a fraudulent texting scam has been launched throughout West Virginia and the nation.... more
Government health officials on Monday approved the first new drug for Alzheimer’s disease in nearly 20 years, disregarding warnings from independent advisers that the much-debated treatment hasn’t been shown to help slow the brain-destroying disease.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), Bureau for Children and Families, Division of Early Care and Education (ECE) today announced the Breastfeeding Friendly Child Care designation for West Virginia childcare providers.... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of June 7, 2021, there have been 2,952,473 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 162,540 total cases and 2,821 deaths.... more
Slowly, but surely, America is returning to some semblance of normalcy. Masks, wipes and sanitizers can now be found in discount bins. Dine-in restaurants are filling back up, and concerts and sporting events are opening the gates.... more
The vaccination for COVID-19 is now available by appointment in St. Joseph’s Physician Clinics. To schedule your vaccination, call your St. Joseph’s Primary Care Provider. ... more
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) reports as of June 4, 2021, there have been 2,939,109 total confirmatory laboratory results received for COVID-19, with 162,232 total cases and 2,813 deaths.... more
During Thursday’s press briefing, Gov. Jim Justice announced that the state’s vaccination incentive lottery will officially be called Do it for Babydog: Save a life. Change your life. ... more
Do I need to get tested for COVID-19 if I’m vaccinated? No, you can skip routine testing, with some exceptions.... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $3,358,087 from the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) to assist the state of West Virginia to reimburse costs associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.... more
June is Wound Healing Awareness Month (WHAM); a time to recognize the efforts of our superhero wound care staff that has healed patients throughout the pandemic with bravery and compassion.... more
More than 40 million people in the United States are living with migraine disease and headache disorders. Nearly 1 in 4 U.S. households includes someone with migraine disease. I had my first migraine in my teens, and it was one of the reasons that motivated me to lead the National Headache Foundation.... more
I got the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine. Now what? Don’t panic. U.S. health officials on Tuesday recommended pausing vaccinations with J&J’s shot as they look into reports of six clots out of nearly 7 million doses given in the country.... more
U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $7,715,683 for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) though the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). ... more
