The Hub Report - 02.17.26

Protect the skin you’re in! 

Practicing sun safe behaviors can help prevent the risk of #melanoma, which is the 6th most common #cancer type in Virginia. 

We have worked with our partners CACV-Cancer Action Coalition of Virginia to help support Virginia schools with #SunSafety resources. 

Learn more about this important work at https://cancercoalitionofvirginia.org/sun-safety/ 

VDH continues to coordinate with Maryland authorities to monitor impacts of the January 19 wastewater overflow into the Potomac River.   

Virginia residents should use caution on the Virginia shoreline of the Potomac River between Swainson Island (overflow site) and Fletcher's Boathouse.  

Additional information about potential impacts to Virginians can be found at vdh.virginia.gov/news/potomac-sewage-spill/   

Give Dr. Webb a follow on our new VDH Commissioner accounts!

• Instagram: @vdh_commissioner

• Facebook Page: VDH Commissioner

• X: VDHCommissioner

• Accessibility is Visibility - A Puerto Rican sign language interpreter was prominently featured - not hidden off to the side. Accessibility isn't an add-on it's a message about who belongs. When people see themselves reflected trust increases. 

• People First - The performance featured real businesses and neighborhood features from communities across the U.S. Feature real people whenever possible. If we want engagement, we need authenticity. 

• Reclaim the Narrative - The show challenged conventional definitions of what it means to be "American. Public health doesnt have to look one way or sound one way. Public health is community, culture, belonging, and power. 

• Visual Storytelling Moves People - The show used powerful imagery - sugar cane fields, utility poles, neighborhood scenes - to communicate identify and history without overexplaining.  

Source: Public Health Communications Collaborative