AGP Executive Report

Food Safety: The CDC expanded the multistate cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell to nine states, adding Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania to Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia. Public Health Guidance: Officials report 1,947 illnesses tied to Taco Bell exposure, at least 98 hospitalizations, and no deaths, while investigators continue tracing the supply chain and note the true case count is likely higher. Local Health Watch (WV): West Virginia remains on the CDC list, and state health departments are monitoring cases as the FDA and CDC keep focus on lettuce from Taylor Farms in central Mexico, despite earlier lab confusion. Healthcare Access & Community Response: In Boone County, volunteers repaired homes at no cost through a partnership with local health and community groups, highlighting how health systems and nonprofits are supporting recovery beyond clinics. Flood Recovery: Red Cross and local partners are running shelters and distributing supplies in flood-impacted areas, including free cleaning help and vaccines through county health departments. Privacy & Care: A lawsuit alleges a medical administrator improperly accessed and shared family health records, raising new concerns about HIPAA and patient data security.

Food Safety Alert: The CDC says the cyclospora outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce served at some Taco Bell locations has expanded to nine states, adding Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania to the original list that included Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia; federal officials report 1,947 confirmed illnesses tied to the outbreak and at least 98 hospitalizations, with no deaths, while warning the real total may be higher because many people recover without testing. Local Response: The CDC has sent “disease detectives” to Ohio to help track the fast-growing outbreak, where the state reported 2,576 cases this year as of July 23, and health officials urge residents to watch for prolonged watery diarrhea and follow recall and produce-washing guidance. West Virginia Health: West Virginia Department of Health is also urging flood cleanup precautions—protective gear, handwashing, safe water and food handling, and staying current on tetanus—after recent severe flooding. Care Access & Wellness: WVU researchers say driving anxiety can be triggered by common situations and often leads to distraction, relying on others, or avoidance, which can worsen safety and mental health.

Cyclospora Outbreak Watch: FDA says it’s investigating a new cyclosporiasis cluster with at least 72 cases, while the larger lettuce-linked outbreak tied to Taco Bell and Taylor Farms continues to spread across 41 states; Mexico’s health ministry also reported negative Cyclospora results from Taylor Farms samples, adding confusion to the source. West Virginia Health Impact: Kentucky reports the multistate Taco Bell/lettuce outbreak includes West Virginia, and local clinicians in the region are seeing diarrhea cases consistent with cyclosporiasis as officials urge careful food handling and medical care for symptoms lasting more than three days. Flood Recovery and Public Health: After historic north-central West Virginia flash flooding, Gov. Morrisey says roads are reopening, power is returning, and search-and-rescue continues; the state is also tracking drinking-water disruptions and FEMA-eligibility through the Disaster Survey. Accessibility in Care: West Virginia launched the “Blue Envelope” program to help law enforcement communicate during traffic stops with drivers who have autism, dementia, or intellectual/developmental disabilities. Community Health Services: Valley Hope opened a new outpatient addiction treatment center in Columbia, Missouri, highlighting continued expansion of intensive outpatient care options.

Cyclospora Outbreak Watch: U.S. cyclosporiasis cases have surged to 4,173+ across 41 states, with CDC estimating 7,400+ more likely cases; officials say the outbreak may involve multiple sources, even as a major cluster is still tied to shredded iceberg lettuce linked to Taylor Farms and served at Taco Bell in several states including West Virginia. FDA Investigation Update: FDA opened a new Cyclospora probe after 72 illnesses with an unknown source, while also continuing to trace the larger lettuce-linked outbreak after earlier lab results were walked back as a false positive. Food Safety for West Virginians: With the recall expanding to 27 states, health coverage is urging people to check product lists and follow safe handling steps for produce. Storms and Health Response: Severe storms and flooding hit parts of West Virginia, prompting evacuations and shelter support; the Red Cross is also dealing with a national blood and platelet shortage and is asking donors—especially type O—to give when safe. Cancer Care Support: Louis Thomas Subaru delivered 80 blankets and care kits to WVU Medicine Camden Clark cancer patients through Subaru Loves to Care. Community Wellness: Appalachian Regional Healthcare is hosting free screenings and wellness events in Beckley and at its Beaver Family Clinic in the coming days. Public Health Tips for Families: Experts encourage parents to help kids use social media safely through clear rules, privacy settings, and regular check-ins. Local Agriculture Alert: Spotted lanternfly was confirmed in Kanawha County for the first time, adding to detections across 22 West Virginia counties.

Cyclospora/Cyclosporiasis Outbreak: The FDA opened a new Cyclospora investigation after 72 people fell ill from an unknown source, while the larger multistate outbreak tied to recalled iceberg lettuce continues to climb—CDC now reports 4,173 confirmed cases across 41 states, with more than 7,400 additional suspected cases; the FDA says a prior Taylor Farms lettuce test was a false positive, but the agency still links the investigation to Taylor Farms produce and urges people to follow recall guidance. Local Health Watch: West Virginia communities are seeing spillover attention as nearby states report surges; Maryland reported 110 confirmed cases, and Shelby County, Tennessee confirmed 11 cases, with officials stressing persistent diarrhea after travel or produce exposure should prompt medical care. Flooding Response in WV: Lewis County shifted from rescues to recovery after flash flooding from heavy rain; officials reported more than 60 water rescues overnight, no one unaccounted for, and ongoing cleanup, while Upshur County remains under intense search-and-rescue with Gov. Morrisey saying he’s concerned about fatalities. Air Quality: Wildfire smoke and severe weather are affecting local air quality, with health officials urging caution for sensitive groups. Telehealth Policy (WV): West Virginia’s Board of Medicine proposed a rule to set telehealth standards for genetic counselors, aligning care expectations for remote and in-person services. Community & Wellness: WVU research highlights how tourism can grow without harming housing, working families, and natural resources—an issue for rural health and wellbeing.

Cyclospora Outbreak Update: The CDC says cyclosporiasis cases tied to the “explosive diarrhea” parasite have surged to nearly 4,200 lab-confirmed infections across 41 states since May 1, with more than 7,400 additional suspected cases still under review; no deaths reported and 308 hospitalizations so far. FDA/Taylor Farms Twist: The FDA retracted a key lab result that had pointed to Taylor Farms lettuce as the source, calling it a false positive, but officials say the recall and outbreak investigation are still based on broader links and guidance to avoid the recalled products. West Virginia Angle: Federal health officials list West Virginia among the hardest-hit states in the multistate cluster linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at some Taco Bell locations. Local Health & Safety: Food-safety experts urge West Virginians to skip recalled lettuce, ask restaurants about produce sources, and wash produce thoroughly under clean running water. WVSOM Expansion: Construction is underway on a $35 million WVSOM science building expansion, adding space for research and a gross anatomy lab, with completion targeted for 2027. Severe Weather Response: Gov. Morrisey declared a state of emergency for all 55 counties as tornadoes and record flooding battered parts of the region, including West Virginia.

Food Safety Watch: The CDC says cyclosporiasis cases have surged to 4,173 in 41 states, with West Virginia reporting 139 confirmed cases as of July 17 and 15 hospitalizations; the outbreak remains tied to shredded iceberg lettuce linked to Taylor Farms, even as FDA says one earlier lettuce test was a false positive and continues investigating. What to Do Locally: West Virginia health officials advise people to avoid recalled lettuce and seek care if symptoms are severe or dehydration sets in; antibiotics like Bactrim can shorten illness for eligible patients. Recall & Retail Response: Taylor Farms’ lettuce recall continues to ripple through stores and restaurants, including Taco Bell locations in West Virginia, while retailers pull affected products and consumers are urged to check labels. Access to Care: Rainelle Medical Center broke ground on a new clinic near White Sulphur Springs, aiming to expand services for Greenbrier County. Rural Health Funding: Gov. Morrisey announced $11M+ to expand virtual care and mobile health clinics statewide. Weather Preparedness: Morrisey declared a statewide State of Preparedness for all 55 counties ahead of severe storms. Community Health Event: Bonnie’s Buses will offer screening mammograms at multiple West Virginia locations in August, with help available for uninsured and underinsured women.

Cyclospora Update (WV impact): Federal health officials say a key Taylor Farms lettuce test was a false positive, but they insist the multistate cyclosporiasis investigation and the recall remain in effect. The FDA says traceback and outbreak data still point to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms’ central Mexico operations, with cases concentrated in places including West Virginia. Food Safety Guidance: Consumers are urged to avoid recalled lettuce and follow safe washing/handling steps while clinicians consider Cyclospora in prolonged watery diarrhea. TRICARE Flood Relief (WV): TRICARE authorized temporary prescription refill waivers for Barbour County residents through July 30 due to severe flooding. Local Courts & Health: A Gilmer County mother alleges WVU-affiliated doctors mishandled her newborn’s sepsis evaluation, leading to permanent injuries. Public Health & Community: Blue Ridge Care will host the first Camp Erin® West Virginia grief camp for youth in Martinsburg (Sept. 12), with applications due Aug. 1. Safety/Preparedness: The West Virginia National Guard is supporting the 21st National Scouting Jamboree in Fayette County with logistics, security, and medical planning.

Cyclospora Outbreak Update (WV): Federal health officials say a lab test that initially flagged Cyclospora in a Taylor Farms lettuce sample was a false positive, but they insist the outbreak investigation still points to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms in central Mexico—meaning the recall guidance stays in place. Where it hits: The CDC has linked the Taco Bell-associated cluster to Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia, with 1,600+ confirmed cases nationally and 94 hospitalizations reported; West Virginia cases have been rising as other states report thousands. What to do: Health agencies continue to urge people to discard recalled Taylor Fresh Foods/Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce and avoid implicated products even as testing results shift. WV Policy & Health Access: West Virginia’s Department of Human Services launched a website asking Medicaid recipients to update contact info ahead of new federal “community engagement” work requirements starting Jan. 1, 2027. Primary Care & Tech: A Commonwealth Fund report based on interviews in rural West Virginia finds patients feel both hope and distrust about AI in primary care, calling for patient-centered implementation. Local Governance: Weston City Council formally opposed the Valley North Transmission Line, citing concerns that include public health and impacts on tourism and agriculture.

Food Safety Update: The FDA says the cyclospora “positive” test tied to Taylor Farms lettuce was a false positive, after lab experts re-reviewed results. The agency also says there are no confirmed positive product tests as of July 19, even as Taylor Farms continues a broad recall and works with federal and state partners to remove implicated product. Local Impact (West Virginia): Federal officials previously linked shredded iceberg lettuce served at some Taco Bell locations to the outbreak in West Virginia and four other states, but the FDA’s reversal means the investigation is still ongoing and the source question remains unsettled. Healthcare Spotlight: Raleigh General Hospital’s trauma registrar, Josh Vance, earned a rare national trauma coding credential (CAISS), highlighting continued investment in trauma care quality. Health System Watch: A secret shopper study found compounded GLP-1 weight-loss drugs in West Virginia clinics may include added ingredients, raising safety and oversight concerns as enforcement resumes. Community Health & Environment: Separate reporting highlights Louisiana air monitoring gaps near industrial pollution—another reminder that health risks can be shaped by where testing and oversight happen.

Food Safety Update: The FDA says a re-check of Taylor Farms’ cyclospora testing found the earlier positive result should be treated as a false positive, and that there are no confirmed positive sample results as of Sunday—though the company and regulators are still working to ensure implicated product is off the market. Retail Response: Walmart pulled select Taylor Farms iceberg salad products in 27 states as a precaution, following Taco Bell’s decision to remove potentially affected lettuce from restaurants in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia. West Virginia Angle: Federal officials have linked the outbreak to lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in West Virginia, and state health officials have warned local residents as case counts rise. Local Health Care Note: Raleigh General Hospital in Beckley reports its trauma registrar earned a specialized injury-coding credential, highlighting ongoing training in West Virginia’s hospital workforce.

Food Safety Alert: Taylor Farms expanded its voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce and salad mix sourced from central Mexico, now covering products shipped to 27 states, including West Virginia, after federal health officials linked the Cyclospora outbreak to shredded lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia. FDA/CDC Update: The FDA says a sample of shredded lettuce from Taylor Farms tested positive for Cyclospora; the positive lot is detained while investigators check whether any implicated product remains in commerce or in consumers’ homes. What to Do: Consumers are urged to discard recalled items right away and avoid eating the implicated Taco Bell lettuce in the five states named by CDC. Local Health/Community: Raleigh General Hospital in Beckley highlighted a trauma registry staff certification milestone, underscoring ongoing training tied to trauma center quality standards. WV Governance: Harrison County natives Hutson and Reynolds were re-elected to leadership roles on the WVU Board of Governors for 2026-27. Other Health Context: Canadian wildfire smoke continues to affect parts of the U.S., including West Virginia, with air quality warnings in the region.

Cyclospora Outbreak Update (WV): Federal health officials say shredded iceberg lettuce tied to a multistate cyclospora outbreak has been linked to Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia, with CDC reporting thousands sick nationwide and more cases expected as testing catches up. Company Recalls: Taylor Farms expanded its voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce shipped from central Mexico to 27 states, telling consumers to discard the product; Sysco has halted distribution and instructed customers to destroy it. New FDA Detail: The FDA also reported a separate sample of shredded lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico tested positive for cyclospora, but that specific sample is not part of the current recall—raising questions about whether more product could be at risk. Local Safety: Health officials and retailers are urging people to avoid the implicated lettuce and follow CDC guidance for thorough cleaning of produce. Other Health Note: A West Virginia retiree-tax roundup highlights that West Virginia taxes Social Security, unlike most states. Community Response: Cabell County crews responded to a structure fire in Milton, closing Route 60 temporarily.

Cyclospora Outbreak Update (WV): West Virginia health officials say the multi-state cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell is still growing, with 139 cases reported statewide as of July 17, including 15 hospitalizations across 26 counties. Food Safety Alert: The CDC and FDA have warned people not to eat shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell locations in West Virginia (and Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, and Ohio) while investigators continue. What to Do: If you develop symptoms like watery diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, fatigue, and weight loss—especially after eating at Taco Bell in the past two weeks—contact a health care provider, and clean surfaces that may have touched the lettuce. Source Identified: Federal investigators traced the likely ingredient to a Mexico-based lettuce supplier tied to Taylor Farms, and Taco Bell and the supplier have moved to remove the implicated lettuce from supply chains. Air Quality Watch (WV): Separately, Canadian wildfire smoke is worsening air quality in parts of the U.S., including West Virginia, prompting health warnings and alerts.

Cyclospora Alert for West Virginia: Federal CDC and FDA investigators say shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell is the source of a fast-growing cyclospora outbreak, warning people not to eat it in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. What’s happening now: The CDC reports 1,645 confirmed cases in 34 states since May, with thousands more under investigation, and notes the illness can be missed on standard stool tests. Company response: Taco Bell says it’s removing potentially impacted lettuce from its supply chain, while supplier Taylor Farms says it’s voluntarily pulling central Mexico iceberg lettuce from the U.S. market. Health guidance: Officials stress washing produce well and watching for symptoms like watery diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite—especially if symptoms last or worsen. Local angle: The outbreak’s West Virginia link makes it a top food-safety story for the state right now.

Food Safety Alert: Federal CDC and FDA investigators say shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexico served at some Taco Bell locations is linked to a fast-growing cyclospora outbreak, warning people not to eat it in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia; officials report 1,644+ illnesses tied to the five-state cluster, with 94 hospitalizations and no deaths, and say the true total may be higher because many people don’t get tested. Company Response: Taco Bell says it has removed potentially impacted lettuce from its supply chain and is working with regulators to determine whether contaminated product remains on the market. Local Health Watch: West Virginia health partners are also reminding residents to follow guidance during the outbreak and to monitor symptoms like severe watery or “explosive” diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and fatigue. Air Quality Reminder: Separately, the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection urges residents to watch air quality as Canadian wildfire smoke moves into the state, with guidance to limit outdoor time if conditions worsen.