Setting PFAS-Based Fish Consumption Advisories for Virginia Waterways

Abstract

This policy memo is intended for the Commissioner of Health at the Virginia Department of Health (VDH). The memo provides recommendations when assessing the need for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-based fish consumption advisories in Virginia waterways. High-frequency fish consumers and sensitive populations face a greater risk of negative health effects from exposure to PFAS through eating local freshwater fishes. By performing state-wide fish screening assessments for relevant PFAS, the VDH can determine if the nutritional benefits from eating fish outweigh the health risks from PFAS exposure. The following memo recommends that VDH update their PFAS fish tissue screening assessment to include PFUnA and PFDA and release final fish tissue screening recommendations for PFOA and PFOS.