AGP Executive Report

IV Recall Watch: Baxter recalled multiple IV solutions nationwide after potential fiberglass and stainless-steel particle contamination, including 0.9% sodium chloride and 70% dextrose lots shipped to Missouri and other states; FDA says stop use and return affected units immediately. Food Safety: The FDA upgraded a Whole Foods guacamole dip recall to its highest risk level over Salmonella concerns tied to a jalapeño supplier, while a lettuce-linked Cyclospora outbreak keeps expanding—now confirmed in 20 states with more than 11,000 illnesses and hundreds hospitalized. Mosquito-Borne Health: St. Louis County continues West Nile virus prevention, tracking mosquito traps and urging residents to remove standing water. Measles Alert: Missouri health officials warn vaccination rates are below herd immunity levels and urge immunization. Local Health & Access: A “Food is Medicine” act takes effect in Missouri to help Medicare and Medicaid patients afford nutritious food. Public Health Planning: MU Extension released flood-risk maps for the St. Louis region to help planners and emergency responders prepare. Community Grants: Exchange Bank of Northeast Missouri awarded $50,000 in grants to Kahoka and Clark County organizations, including senior-focused programs.

Foster Care Safety Scrutiny: Missouri lawmakers grilled the Children’s Division after multiple foster-care deaths, including a 17-year-old with type 1 diabetes and autism who died after being placed nearly 300 miles away with a caregiver not trained for his medical needs. Food Safety Alert: The FDA upgraded the cyclospora-linked lettuce recall to the highest risk level and added Georgia, Tennessee and Texas, bringing the outbreak to 20 states and more than 11,000 reported illnesses. Public Health & Care Access: Missouri’s “Food is Medicine” Act took effect, aiming to help Medicare and Medicaid patients afford nutritious food. Maternal Health Policy Fight: Unions and reproductive rights groups are teaming up again for November, including a ballot fight over whether to repeal Missouri’s 2024 abortion-rights amendment. Local Health & Oversight: Missouri State Auditor Fitzpatrick faulted St. Louis Public Schools board oversight and spending, warning of weakened accountability. Community Health Permits: A Harrisburg grandmother’s free breakfast tradition is drawing health officials’ pressure over permits. Tech, Privacy & Health Risks: A national probe found police employees in multiple states using Flock license-plate cameras for questionable tracking, raising concerns about surveillance misuse. Medical Workforce: Bothwell added a family medicine physician to its Sedalia clinic team, expanding primary care and acupuncture options.

FDA Recall Watch: Walmart shoppers in Missouri and 18 other states are being told to stop eating Bettergoods Pistachio Nut Butter after the FDA upgraded the Salmonella recall to Class I, its most serious level. Food Safety: Whole Foods also recalled multiple dips across 13 states, including Missouri, tied to jalapeños that may be contaminated with Salmonella. Hospital Supply Alert: Baxter recalled injectable fluids used for nutrition and hydration, including 70% dextrose and 0.9% sodium chloride, over possible fiberglass or metal contamination that could lead to serious complications. Public Health: Missouri is below the 95% measles vaccination rate needed for herd immunity, and health officials warn outbreaks can spread fast; they urge MMR shots. Outbreak Update: The FDA says cyclosporiasis linked to contaminated produce has spread to more states, bringing the national total to 11,458 cases and adding Missouri’s continued vigilance. Nutrition Access: Missouri’s “Food is Medicine” Act takes effect Friday, aiming to help Medicare and Medicaid patients afford nutritious food. Youth Tech Oversight: After Missouri’s $100 million share of the Meta settlement, the state’s attorney general says it will investigate other platforms’ effects on children’s mental health. Local Care Access: A new mobile podiatry service is launching in the Tri-States to bring diabetic foot care and nail services to rural patients. Workplace Policy: MU Health Care is changing paid time off rules for employees starting Jan. 1.

Big Tech & Youth Safety: Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced a $17.1 billion multistate Meta settlement, with Missouri expected to receive $100M–$150M, requiring new child-safety protections on Instagram and Facebook. Public Health Watch: Missouri health officials say cyclosporiasis cases are tapering off, but the state urges people to stay vigilant after a record-level spike. New Missouri Laws: Seventy-six state laws take effect Friday, including tougher penalties for intoxicated driving causing injury or death and changes tied to ignition interlock requirements. Local School Health: Jefferson City School District will consider agreements involving special education services and student transportation, plus a donation education program for students. Opioid Harm Reduction: A new explainer looks at Narcan’s shift from tightly controlled medicine to an over-the-counter lifesaving tool. Road Safety (Crash Reports): A Tarkio man was seriously hurt in a fog-related rollover on Highway 136; a Pacific man died and a Fulton woman was injured in a Highway 50 rollover; and a Fort Scott-area crash in I-29’s construction zone sent a driver to Mosaic Life Care.

Public Health Update: Missouri health officials say cyclosporiasis cases are tapering, with daily reports dropping from about 100 to around 10, but they urge residents to stay alert as the state still tops the national rankings. Big Tech & Youth Safety: Missouri could receive $100M–$150M from a proposed $17.1B multistate Meta settlement over alleged teen social media addiction, with new limits and safety rules for Facebook and Instagram. Overdose Prevention: International Overdose Awareness Day coverage highlights naloxone access and community education, pointing readers to free Narcan kits through a Northeast Missouri program. New Missouri Laws: Seventy-six new laws take effect Friday, including tougher penalties for intoxicated driving causing death and changes aimed at victim support and rural speed limits. Community Health & Safety: A family reports a 10-year-old boy died in a Galena house fire, while Missouri’s public health beat also includes a local dispute over a grandmother’s free home breakfast. Local Life: Independence’s Bolger Square is set to get a Kroger-owned Dillons grocery replacing an abandoned JCPenney.

IVF Coverage Fight for Missouri Military Families: TRICARE generally doesn’t cover IVF meds or procedures, leaving some service members to pay out of pocket; one Missouri Army family says they turned to employer benefits after a federal proposal to expand coverage was dropped. Public Safety—Trooper Hit During Traffic Stop: A Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper was seriously injured after being struck by a passing car while arresting a suspected DWI driver on I-35 in Clay County; the trooper underwent surgery and the crash is under investigation. Local Violence Update: Kansas City police say a man shot on a front porch in the Wayne Avenue/81st Street area died from injuries; homicide detectives are seeking a person of interest. Blood Transfusion Allergy Risk: A large study links tick-bite alpha-gal antibodies in type O patients to higher allergic reaction risk when receiving plasma/platelets from B or AB donors, prompting at least one hospital to change practice. Food Safety Watch: Missouri health officials are monitoring a Salmonella outbreak and urging families to follow guidance on symptoms and prevention. Community Health & Support: United Way of Central Missouri kicks off its Community Campaign Sept. 3 to fund health, education, and basic-needs services through partner agencies. Water Quality Concern: Missouri DNR says a wastewater plant in Leadwood polluted Big River with sewage, with high E. coli levels found upstream and downstream.

Air Quality & Cancer Fears: EPA is lifting air monitoring requirements at BCP Ingredients in Verona, Mo., after upgrades cut toxic pollution levels; the plant’s monitoring equipment was removed earlier this month, easing long-running community concerns. Opioid Policy: Missouri AG Catherine Hanaway told Kansas City police commissioners that 7-OH has driven overdose deaths and heartbreak for families, pushing for a statewide ban. Maternal Health Access: Kansas Health Institute’s Region 7 Maternal Health ECHO session 3 focused on how structural and financial barriers limit care and coordination across Missouri and neighboring states. Food Safety & Illness: Cyclosporiasis-linked outbreaks are driving millions of households to stop buying pre-bagged salad, with consumer spending at risk while cases spread. Public Health & Water: A new Environment America report found potentially unsafe bacteria levels at 85% of monitored Missouri water sites, including E. coli concerns at Shoal Creek. Local Health Costs: A study highlights how pregnancy and childbirth costs vary widely by state, with Louisiana among the lowest—useful context for Missouri families planning care. Community Support: P.E.O. chapters in Missouri are backing women’s education with scholarships, including support for Cottey College in Missouri. Justice & Safety: A former Missouri TV anchor, Angelynn “Angie” Mock, pleaded guilty in Wichita to fatally stabbing her mother, with the case tied to delusions and mental illness.

IVF Coverage Gap for Military Families: A Missouri active-duty couple at Fort Leonard Wood says TRICARE often won’t cover IVF meds and procedures, leaving them to pay thousands out of pocket as lawmakers consider whether to expand coverage. EMS Memorial Deadline Extended: The U.S. Senate passed bipartisan legislation (Schmitt/Coons) extending time to build a national EMS memorial in Washington, funded by the foundation, not taxpayers. Vision Care Milestone: KeraLink International says it has now impacted more than 4 million lives through global vision programs, with growth tied to partnerships and “last mile” eye care. Infant Formula Lawsuit Settlement: Abbott reached a $670M settlement tied to preterm infant formula claims involving necrotizing enterocolitis, while still facing thousands of additional cases. Whole-Health Care in Missouri: A Missouri-focused piece argues care is too fragmented across providers and urges more coordinated, whole-person models to cut costs and avoid avoidable ER visits. Food Safety Watch: A multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to recalled jalapeños has sickened hundreds, including cases reported in Missouri. Alzheimer’s Drug Scrutiny: New analysis questions long-term cognitive benefits claimed for antiamyloid drugs lecanemab and donanemab, pointing to steeper decline during open-label phases. Public Health & Safety Notes: A Missouri TBI explainer highlights prevention basics like seat belts and helmets, alongside local crash reports and injuries.

Workplace & Care Culture: Western Missouri Medical Center earned Great Place To Work® certification for the second straight year, based on employee survey feedback. Public Health Watch: Missouri reported 2,152 cyclosporiasis cases as of Aug. 23, with the outbreak slowing but still climbing; health officials urge hydration and staying alert for symptoms. Food & Community Support: Missouri Farmers Care’s Drive to Feed Kids delivered 825,196 meals for children facing hunger. Local Safety Planning: Joplin is updating its bike and pedestrian master plan and wants public input through October to target crash-prone areas. Health Access & Records: The VA rolled out a federal EHR system to three Indiana hospitals and 16 associated clinics, expanding access for more than 102,000 veterans. Nutrition & Food Safety: Abbott agreed to pay $670M to settle about 2,000 baby formula lawsuits, including a Missouri case tied to a St. Louis jury award. Ecosystem & Wellness: Missouri’s Department of Conservation continued alligator gar restoration in southeast Missouri, stocking more than 6,000 juvenile gar to support healthier waterways and sport fishing.

Diabetes care failure: Missouri Children’s Division placed a diabetic teen in a foster home not licensed for his medical needs; he died 24 days later from diabetic ketoacidosis, raising fresh questions about oversight and matching placements to care requirements. Food insecurity: A new report highlights that millions of older Americans don’t have enough to eat as food prices rise beyond fixed incomes, with SNAP changes adding pressure. Flu update: India’s health agency says there’s no new H1N1 strain and existing vaccines should still work, but urges extra caution for kids, seniors, and people with underlying conditions as cases climb. Local health in schools: Springfield Public Schools is exceeding the state’s recess requirement, building in 30 minutes daily to support kids’ focus, social skills, and play. Public health monitoring: Missouri reports more than 2,000 cyclosporiasis cases statewide as the outbreak continues, with CDC totals lagging behind state reporting. Safety and injuries: A string of Missouri crash reports includes a fatal I-70 crash near Prospect and multiple injury crashes across the state, underscoring ongoing road safety risks.

Cyclosporiasis Update: Missouri has surpassed 2,000 reported cyclosporiasis cases (2,152 as of the latest state communicable disease report), with the illness causing explosive diarrhea, weight loss, bloating, nausea and fatigue—CDC reporting is delayed, but Missouri remains among the hardest-hit states. Flu Watch (H1N1): India’s health authorities say there’s no new H1N1 strain and vaccines still match circulating viruses; they urge extra caution for young children, older adults, and people with underlying conditions. Kids Health in Missouri Schools: The American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge are rolling out in Missouri to teach students and families how to respond to cardiac arrest and stroke. Medicaid/Healthcare Policy: A Missouri-focused healthcare policy item highlights how hospitals are preparing for major federal Medicaid changes tied to HR 1 and potential work requirements. Marijuana Licensing: Missouri’s final round of marijuana microbusiness licensing drew nearly 900 applications, with a lottery planned for Sept. 9 for 77 licenses. Safety & Emergencies: A Jefferson City woman was injured in a Lake of the Ozarks jet ski incident; Missouri also reported multiple serious crashes and a Kansas City homicide investigation after a man was found shot.

Influenza Watch: India’s top medical research body says no new H1N1 strain has been detected, noting current viruses match a strain circulating since 2025 and are well-matched to Northern Hemisphere vaccine recommendations, while urging extra caution for kids, older adults, and people with underlying conditions. Rural Health Access: Freeman Health System was named a Community Hub Anchor for Missouri’s Rural Health Transformation Program, partnering with dozens of Southwest Missouri organizations to improve care coordination and access for about 216,000 residents. Neonatal Care Lawsuit: Abbott Laboratories agreed to pay $670M to settle claims tied to its premature-baby formula and alleged risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), with the company saying it’s not admitting liability. Child Welfare Tragedy: A Missouri diabetic teen was placed in a foster home not licensed for his medical needs and died 24 days later, with investigators citing diabetic ketoacidosis. Public Health Support: United Way of Central Missouri launched the “We Thrive Together” podcast focused on adolescent mental health, grief, and resiliency. Safety & Health in Motion: A 15-year-old was airlifted after a UTV crash in Gasconade County, and a serious Highway 65 wrong-way crash in Hollister left one dead and four injured.

Medicaid & Weight-Loss Drugs: A new federal-style deal offering states lower prices for weight-loss medications is being rejected by many, with Medicaid agencies saying it would mean new spending and unclear savings. State Health Politics: The Missouri State Medical Association is making a major political splash, splitting $1.5M into two new PACs and backing changes aimed at prior authorization limits and Medicaid managed-care shifts. Food Safety: Whole Foods recalled jalapeño-containing salsas, guacamole and dips in 12 states, including Missouri, due to possible Salmonella contamination. Local Health Services: Arch Aesthetics in Richmond Heights added Tixel 2, an FDA-cleared fractional skin resurfacing option marketed for fine lines and eye-area concerns with minimal downtime. Community Health: The Missouri Department of Conservation and the American Red Cross are teaming up for a blood drive Aug. 24 in Columbia. Public Health Watch: Missouri’s food inspection reports for the week of Aug. 9 show scores ranging from 85 to 100 across 33 Jefferson County establishments. Health & Wellness Workforce: Missouri’s doctors group and Medicaid changes are also landing amid broader pressure on hospital finances as Medicaid rules shift.

Alzheimer’s Testing Breakthrough: The FDA cleared C2N Diagnostics’ PrecivityAD2 blood test to help evaluate Alzheimer’s disease by detecting amyloid plaques, aiming to support earlier, less invasive diagnosis. Behavioral Health Lawsuit: A Waynesville children’s behavioral health center is sued over allegations it allowed sexual assaults of kids in its care. Rural Maternal Care: A national report highlights “maternity care deserts,” noting many rural hospitals have stopped delivering babies, leaving expectant families with longer drives and fewer local OB options. Mental Health for Athletes: Missouri Southern State University and Freeman Ozark Center launched a performance excellence initiative to expand counseling and resilience support for student-athletes. Infant Formula Settlement: Abbott agreed to pay $670M to settle about 2,000 baby formula lawsuits, including a Missouri case tied to Similac claims. Public Health & Safety: Missouri State Fair canceled a Sea Lions Splash show after an I-70 tractor-trailer crash; sea lions were taken for veterinary evaluation. Health Policy Watch: Missouri GOP efforts to repeal abortion rights via anti-trans ballot initiatives continue to draw attention.

Boone County Violence: An Illinois man, Martin Paddie Jr., 56, was charged after a hatchet attack left a rural victim badly injured; court filings say the assault happened near the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail in central Columbia early Thursday. Public Health & Policy: Missouri’s abortion fight is heating up again as Republicans pursue a new ballot effort aimed at restoring the state’s ban while also restricting gender transition care for minors. Infant Formula Fallout: Abbott Laboratories agreed to a $670M settlement covering about 2,000 baby formula lawsuits, including a Missouri case tied to a $495M verdict. Cancer Care Advances: Newer diagnostic options are improving lung cancer survival, highlighting the push toward earlier detection. Workforce & Access: A federal judge allowed a St. Mary’s Hospital discrimination case to proceed on race, color and sex claims, while dismissing age claims—another reminder of how workplace disputes can affect health systems. Road Safety: Two separate I-70 crashes in Kansas City sent drivers to hospitals with life-threatening injuries. Corrections Leadership: Gov. Mike Kehoe selected Valarie Moseley as the next Missouri Department of Corrections director, pending Senate confirmation.

Reproductive Rights Fight: Missouri Republicans are pushing a new November ballot amendment (Amendment 3) to restore the state’s abortion ban while also constitutionally banning gender transition care for minors, reviving the same “abortion equals trans care” messaging that opponents used two years ago. State Politics & Health Care: The Missouri State Medical Association is launching two new PACs with a combined $1.5 million, signaling doctors are stepping deeper into legislative fights over access to care and Medicaid managed care. Food Safety Watch: Cyclosporiasis cases tied to the nationwide outbreak are easing in Ohio, with new diagnoses continuing to drop as officials urge thorough produce washing and safe handling. Community Harm Reduction: Columbia bars are expanding Narcan access, with Narcan boxes now placed in downtown venues as part of Overdose Awareness Month education. Local Health & Safety: OSHA is investigating a June death involving an electrician during University of Missouri stadium renovation work. Road & Water Incidents: A swimmer was hit by a watercraft in the Black River and airlifted to a St. Louis hospital; multiple Missouri crashes also sent drivers to care, including a serious Freightliner incident on I-29. Behavioral Health Lawsuit: A lawsuit alleges a Missouri residential behavioral health facility allowed years of sexual abuse of children, citing failures in supervision and safeguards. Infant Formula Litigation: Abbott reached a $670 million settlement tied to preterm infant formula claims, partially resolving ongoing lawsuits.