State Health

Trauma Advisory Council Data and PI Subcommittee Meeting - Apr. 23, 2026

The South Carolina Department of Public Health announces a meeting of the Trauma Advisory Council Data and Performance Improvement (PI) Subcommittee on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at 1 p.m. The meeting will be held at the State of South Carolina Health Campus, Conference Room B228, 400 Otarre Parkway, Cayce. A virtual viewing link and full agenda are available on the meeting event page.

Whitmer Proclaims April Child Abuse Prevention Month

Governor Whitmer proclaimed April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Michigan. MDHHS recognized the critical role of prevention programs in keeping children safe and strengthening families, highlighting the Keep Kids Safe Action Agenda, the CSA teaming model, and various prevention initiatives including MI Parenting Resource, Michigan Home Visiting, MiFamily Together, and Children Trust Michigan programs.

Boil Water Advisory Issued for City of Fort Scott Bourbon County

KDHE has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Fort Scott, Bourbon Co RWD 2C, and City of Uniontown public water supply systems in Bourbon County, Kansas, effective April 18, 2026. The advisory was triggered by a waterline break causing loss of pressure in Fort Scott's distribution system, which may have compromised chlorine residuals and allowed bacterial contamination. Affected customers are advised to boil water for one minute before drinking or food preparation, or use bottled water.

Governor and LDH Secretary Urge Emotional Support After Shreveport Shooting

The Louisiana Department of Health and Governor Jeff Landry issued a public health notice encouraging residents to utilize the Louisiana 988 crisis hotline for free, confidential emotional support following a shooting in Shreveport. The notice provides information about available mental health resources including crisis support teams and behavioral health services. No compliance obligations or regulatory requirements are created.

Youth Cannabis Use Continued to Decline in 2025

The Minnesota Department of Health released findings from the 2025 Minnesota Student Survey showing 96% of students reported not using cannabis in the last month, and a 57.7% decrease in past 12-month use among eighth, ninth, and 11th graders since 2013. The survey, conducted between January and June 2025, is Minnesota's first since adult cannabis use was legalized in 2023.

Maryland Home Visiting Week Proclaimed April 20-24, 2026

Governor Wes Moore of Maryland has proclaimed April 20-24, 2026 as Maryland Home Visiting Week. The proclamation recognizes early childhood home visiting programs and parenting education as tools to promote healthy child development, strengthen families, and reduce the risk of abuse and neglect. The observance is symbolic and does not create enforceable obligations or penalties.

One Measles Case Confirmed in Maryland Resident with Recent International Travel

The Maryland Department of Health announced one confirmed case of measles in a Baltimore metro area resident with recent international travel. Health officials have identified potential exposure locations including Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, FastMed Urgent Care in Baltimore, and Sinai Hospital's emergency department. Marylanders who visited these locations during specified times are advised to monitor for symptoms for 21 days and verify their MMR vaccination status.

First Measles Case of 2026 Confirmed in Providence County

The Rhode Island Department of Health has confirmed the first measles case of 2026 in Providence County. Health officials are notifying the public and monitoring the situation for potential exposures. This announcement serves as a public health notification regarding the confirmed case.

State Public Health Nurse Honored With Nursing Excellence Award for HIV-PrEP Work

The New Mexico Department of Health announced that Gina Fullbright, a registered nurse practitioner with the Public Health Division's Southwest Region, received a Nursing Excellence Award from the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence on April 11, 2026. Fullbright was recognized for her work expanding access to HIV-PrEP preventative treatment in southern New Mexico. Four other NMDOH nurses were also nominated for the award.

Shapiro Administration's Work to Combat STIs Leads to Dramatic Decrease in Reportable Diseases

The Pennsylvania Department of Health announced a 28% decrease in congenital syphilis cases from 2024 to 2025, with 90% of syphilis patients receiving treatment within 14 days. Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen highlighted free STI testing, treatment, and counseling available at all 59 State Health Centers during STI Awareness Week.

Michigan Awards Healthy Kids Dental Contract to Delta Dental of Michigan

Michigan DHHS awarded the Healthy Kids Dental (HKD) contract to Delta Dental of Michigan. The program covers approximately 955,000 children under age 21 enrolled in Medicaid. The five-year contract begins October 1, 2026, with three one-year extension options.

Measles Case in Saluda County Adult, 34 Exposed

South Carolina DPH confirmed a measles case in a Saluda County adult linked to international travel. Lab confirmation was received April 16. Thirty-four individuals have been identified as potentially exposed and are being notified for quarantine. No public exposures occurred. This brings the state total to 1,001 measles cases since July 2025, while the unrelated Upstate outbreak (997 cases) is scheduled to be declared over April 26.

Boil Water Advisory Rescinded for City of Humboldt, Allen County, Kansas

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Humboldt public water supply system in Allen County. The advisory was originally issued due to a loss of pressure, which may result in loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination. Laboratory testing of drinking water samples collected from the City of Humboldt indicates no evidence of bacteriological contamination, and all conditions that placed the system at risk are resolved.

Measles Cases Rise to 602 in Utah

The Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has reported 602 confirmed measles cases in Utah as of April 14, 2026, since the outbreak began in June 2025. The update reminds Utahns that the MMR vaccine is 97% effective after two doses and advises those exposed to monitor their health for 21 days. Healthcare providers are urged to prepare before symptomatic patients arrive to prevent further transmission.

Storm Flood Cleanup Safety Precautions for Wisconsin Residents

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has issued safety precautions for residents and crews engaged in storm and flood cleanup and recovery. The advisory covers multiple hazards including downed power lines, debris, carbon monoxide exposure, floodwater dangers, mold growth, private well contamination, and food safety. The guidance also informs FoodShare members they have 10 days to request replacement benefits for food lost due to storms or power outages.

Grand Forks County Measles Case Confirmed, 33 Total in ND 2026

North Dakota HHS confirmed one measles case in Grand Forks County on April 16, 2026, marking the first case in that county this year. The individual likely acquired the infection within the state with no reported travel. North Dakota has recorded 33 total measles cases in 2026, with five hospitalizations. Public exposure locations in Grand Forks County have been identified. HHS recommends MMR vaccination for all Grand Forks County residents and travelers as a precaution against potential community transmission.

NC Officials Testify Before Legislature on Medicaid Fraud Prevention

NCDHHS Secretary Dev Sangvai and Attorney General Jeff Jackson testified before the NC General Assembly House Select Committee on Oversight and Reform on April 16, 2026, regarding Medicaid fraud prevention efforts. NC Medicaid covers over 3 million North Carolinians (1 in 4 residents) with a 0.46% eligibility error rate. In 2025, the program reported 158 credible allegations of member fraud and 228 credible allegations of provider fraud among 114,454 enrolled providers. The Attorney General's Medicaid Investigations Division has recovered over $1.2 billion in restitution and penalties for North Carolina.

Rabid Bat Confirmed in Lexington County One Person and One Pet Exposed

South Carolina DPH confirmed a bat found near Henslowe and Ashburton lanes in West Columbia tested positive for rabies on April 14, 2026, after being submitted for testing on April 13. One person was potentially exposed and has been referred to their health care provider, while one dog was exposed and will be quarantined under the South Carolina Rabies Control Act. This is the 23rd case of rabid animals statewide in 2026 and the second in Lexington County.

Rabid Dog Confirmed in Anderson County; Four People and One Pet Exposed

The South Carolina Department of Public Health confirmed a brown and black German shepherd dog found near La Paz Street and Los Cabos Lane in Pendleton tested positive for rabies on April 15, 2026. Four people were exposed and have been referred to healthcare providers. One dog was exposed and will be quarantined per the South Carolina Rabies Control Act. This is the fifth animal to test positive for rabies in Anderson County in 2026, with 24 cases statewide.

Boil Water Advisory Issued for Jefferson Co RWD 7, Jefferson County, Kansas

KDHE has issued a boil water advisory for Jefferson Co RWD 7 public water supply system in Jefferson County, Kansas, effective April 16, 2026. The advisory was issued due to a waterline break resulting in loss of pressure in the distribution system, which creates risk of bacterial contamination and loss of chlorine residuals. Customers should boil water for one minute before drinking or use bottled water until KDHE rescinds the advisory following laboratory testing.

Air Quality Health Advisory Issued for Flint Hills Prescribed Burns

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment issued an Air Quality Health Advisory on April 16, 2026, due to elevated Air Quality Index values from prescribed burns across the Flint Hills. Increased burning activity on April 15 resulted in elevated AQI readings this morning, with winds expected to carry additional smoke from ongoing burns. KDHE and partners continue implementing the Flint Hills Smoke Management Plan to mitigate air quality impacts.

Mayor Bowser Announces 21st Emancipation Day Celebration, New Location

Mayor Muriel Bowser announces the 21st annual DC Emancipation Day celebration on Sunday, April 19, 2026. The event moves to a new location at 13th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. The free day-long celebration includes a festival, parade, and star-studded concert featuring T.I., Mýa, and Tye Tribbett. DC Emancipation Day commemorates the 1862 signing of the DC Compensated Emancipation Act, which freed more than 3,100 enslaved people.

Wyoming Launches Community Naloxone Resource Map

The Wyoming Department of Health announced the Community Naloxone Resource Map, an online tool helping residents find naloxone (Narcan) at no cost at local organizations. The map displays groups across Wyoming that provide free naloxone, which reverses opioid overdose effects. Organizations wishing to be included can request addition via a provided form, and businesses or groups can also order naloxone at no cost from WDH for emergency response or distribution.

Measles Exposure Advisory at Mt Hood Community College, Gresham - April 13

Oregon Health Authority and Multnomah County public health officials have identified a new measles exposure location at Mt Hood Community College, Gresham Campus Academic Center Building 17. Individuals present at the location between 10 a.m. and 1:50 p.m. on Monday, April 13, 2026, may have been exposed. Officials are urging those potentially exposed to contact a healthcare provider to determine immunity status based on vaccination records, age, or laboratory evidence.

Governor Stein Recognizes Black Maternal Health Week, Highlights Maternal Health Disparities

Governor Josh Stein joined Senator Natalie Murdock and the North Carolina Legislative Black Caucus to recognize Black Maternal Health Week and raise awareness of racial disparities in maternal health outcomes. According to NCDHHS, Black women in North Carolina are nearly twice as likely as white women to die from pregnancy complications, with 57% of pregnancy-related deaths occurring during pregnancy or within six weeks postpartum and nearly 80% deemed preventable. The Governor highlighted budget investments including $319 million for Medicaid and $213 million through the Rural Health Transformation Program to improve maternal care access.

997 Measles Cases, No New Cases Since March - Outbreak Update

South Carolina DPH reports no new measles cases since March 17, keeping the Upstate outbreak total at 997. No individuals are currently in quarantine or isolation. If no new cases are reported, the outbreak will be declared over on April 26, following a 42-day period with no new cases.

Boil Water Advisory Issued for the City of Humboldt, Allen County

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Humboldt public water supply system in Allen County. The advisory was issued due to a loss of pressure, which may result in loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination. Customers should boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation, or use bottled water, until conditions are resolved and testing confirms safety.

Louisiana Anticipates CMS Approval for 1115 Prison Reentry Demonstration Waiver

Louisiana Department of Health announces anticipation of CMS approval for its Section 1115 Medicaid Reentry Demonstration Waiver. Louisiana was the first state to align its waiver with new federal budget-neutrality requirements under Sec. 71118 of H.R. 1 (OBBBA), effective January 1, 2027. The waiver aims to improve health outcomes for individuals transitioning from incarceration by connecting them to Medicaid coverage and pre-release services.

DC Emancipation Day 2026, District Services Modified

DC Department of Health announced modified District government services for DC Emancipation Day on Thursday, April 16, 2026. Low-barrier homeless shelters, mental health crisis services including the 988 helpline and DC Stabilization Center, select public libraries, and Department of Parks and Recreation outdoor facilities will remain open. No new compliance obligations are imposed.

Missouri Expands Verified Dispensary Initiative with Billboards Radio Advertising

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services announced an expansion of its Verified Dispensary public outreach initiative, adding highway billboards at 218 locations and radio advertisements on 85 stations reaching approximately 1.5 million residents with over 5 million impressions. The campaign provides tools to help Missourians identify state-licensed cannabis dispensaries and includes an updated dispensary locator map.

Oregon City Measles Exposure Location at Legacy GoHealth

Oregon Health Authority and Clackamas County public health officials identified a measles exposure location at Legacy GoHealth in Oregon City. Individuals present at the clinic between 9:09 a.m. and 12:22 p.m. on April 10, 2026, or between 1:12 p.m. and 3:48 p.m. on April 11, 2026, should contact their healthcare provider. OHA warns against relying on news outlets for exposure information and directs the public to its official measles website for accurate listings.

Centennial Middle School Measles Exposure Date Added

Oregon Health Authority and Multnomah County public health officials have added an additional measles exposure date to Centennial Middle School in southeast Portland. The new exposure period is April 3, 2026, between 9:20 a.m. and 6 p.m. The complete exposure list includes April 1, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. Officials urge anyone present during these times to contact their healthcare provider to determine measles immunity status.

Syphilis Rates Drop 18.6%, Congenital Syphilis Down 32.4% in New Mexico

The New Mexico Department of Health announced declines in sexually transmitted infection rates for 2025 compared to 2024. Syphilis rates dropped 18.6%, congenital syphilis fell 32.4%, chlamydia dropped 5.1%, and gonorrhea dropped 6.1%. NMDOH attributes the declines to expanded community outreach, increased testing and treatment, promotion of Doxy PEP post-exposure prevention medication, and partnerships with community, medical, and Tribal organizations.

Cyanobacteria Advisory Lifted at Scott Pond

The Rhode Island Department of Health has lifted the cyanobacteria advisory at Scott Pond. The advisory, which warned the public to avoid contact with the water due to potential harmful algal blooms, has been removed following testing that indicated cyanobacteria levels have returned to safe conditions.

State Health Planning Board Confirms Public Hearing for Hospital Closure Certificate of Need Application

The New Jersey Department of Health's State Health Planning Board has scheduled a public hearing for April 15, 2026, to accept public comments on a Certificate of Need application for the closure of Heights University Hospital in Jersey City. The hospital application and related materials are available at the Jersey City Public Library, New Jersey State Library, and the NJDOH website. Written comments may also be submitted until April 22, 2026, via email or mail.

Delaware Healthy Mother & Infant Consortium Celebrates 20th Anniversary During Annual Summit

The Delaware Healthy Mother & Infant Consortium marked its 20th anniversary at its annual summit with a keynote address by Multi-Emmy Award-winning director Emmai Alaquiva. Alaquiva discussed his award-winning film The Ebony Canal and addressed maternal health disparities affecting Black and Brown communities. The event celebrated the consortium's two decades of work on infant outcomes in Delaware.

STI Awareness Week: Talk, Test, Treat

MSDH announces STI Awareness Week (April 12-18) and releases 2025 STI trend data. Reported changes include: 2.4% increase in chlamydia, 0.6% decrease in gonorrhea, 21.9% decrease in syphilis, 48% decrease in congenital syphilis, and 4.9% decrease in HIV. The department promotes Talk, Test, Treat messaging and provides information on free testing, PrEP, and condom distribution at county health clinics.

Free Soil Testing Events Hot Springs April 22-25

The Arkansas Department of Health announces free soilSHOP events in Hot Springs on April 22-25, 2026. Partnering with Master Gardeners of Garland County, Child Care Aware, National Park College, ATSDR, and EPA Region 6, the events will offer free lead screening of soil samples and health education on environmental hazards. Up to three soil samples per person may be submitted for testing.

EMS Training Committee to Meet Thursday, Apr. 16, 2026

The South Carolina Department of Public Health announces that the EMS Training Committee will meet on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 10 a.m. at the State of South Carolina Health Campus, Conference Room A141, 400 Otarre Parkway, Cayce. The meeting is open to the public and the agenda and virtual viewing link are available on the meeting event page.

Measles Exposure Location Confirmed at Centennial Middle School Southeast Portland

Oregon Health Authority and Multnomah County public health officials confirmed a measles exposure location at Centennial Middle School in southeast Portland. Individuals present at the school between April 1-10, 2026 during school hours may have been exposed. Officials are urging potentially exposed individuals to contact their healthcare providers to determine measles immunity based on vaccination record, age, or laboratory evidence.

ODH Advises Diet and Exercise Changes to Cut Chronic Disease and Cancer Risk

The Ohio Department of Health issued a public health advisory recommending dietary and exercise changes to reduce chronic disease and cancer risk among Ohioans. ODH Director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff advised increasing fiber intake, reducing sugar consumption, and engaging in at least 2.5 hours of weekly cardiovascular activity. Dr. Earl Thompson IV highlighted colorectal cancer screening importance, noting approximately 5,500 new cases and 2,000 deaths annually in Ohio.

New Interactive Dashboard Displays Ohio Kindergarten Immunization Data

The Ohio Department of Health announced the launch of a new interactive dashboard displaying kindergarten immunization data on the state DataOhio Portal. The dashboard provides current vaccine rates, exemption rates, and specific vaccine information (MMR, DTaP) by county, school, and across years from 2017-2018 to 2025-26. The dashboard supports informed decision-making by school officials, parents, and policymakers to help protect children from vaccine-preventable diseases.

Iowa HHS Announces Additional Funding to Fight Opioid Crisis

Iowa HHS announced additional opioid settlement funding availability through House File 1038 (2025), directing 75% of Iowa's opioid settlement money toward crisis response. $10 million is available per funding round with individual grants up to $1 million per project. Eligible activities include prevention, treatment, recovery services, and overdose reversal drug distribution.

Robeson County Behavioral Health Urgent Care Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

North Carolina DHHS announces a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new Behavioral Health Urgent Care facility in Robeson County on April 17, 2026. NCDHHS provided $2.2 million in funding as part of a historic mental health investment from the North Carolina General Assembly. This is the eighth of a planned 13 new or expanded BHUCs to open statewide.

MDHHS Encourages Syphilis Testing During STI Awareness Week; Cases Up 50%

MDHHS is urging Michigan residents to get tested for syphilis during STI Awareness Week (April 12-18) following a 50% increase in symptomatic and infectious syphilis cases over the past decade. Preliminary 2025 data show rising rates across all populations, including a record 58 congenital syphilis cases in 2024 — the highest in Michigan in over 30 years. The department recommends regular testing, early prenatal care with syphilis screening in the first and third trimesters, and consideration of doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (doxy PEP) for exposed individuals.

SC DPH Observes STI Awareness Week, Apr 12-18

SC DPH issued a press release observing National STI Awareness Week (April 12-18). The release presents 2024 data showing 81% of chlamydia cases and 66% of gonorrhea cases in South Carolina were diagnosed in people under 30. Congenital syphilis reached a record high of 44 cases in 2024. The agency emphasized the importance of prenatal care and syphilis screening for pregnant women.

Hilo Wellness Celebration Honors Health Volunteers and Mayors Health Challenge

The Hawaii Department of Health Hawaii District Health Office and the County of Hawaii Mayor's Office invite the public to a wellness celebration on April 24, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Hilo State Building Lanai. The event marks the grand finale of National Public Health Week and National Volunteer Week, honoring health volunteers and continuing the Mayor's Health Challenge Legacy.

Alabama Issues First State Autism Spectrum Disorder Identification Card

Alabama's Department of Public Health announces the launch of the first state-recognized Autism Spectrum Disorder Identification Card in the United States. The cards are available at county health departments for $10 to Alabamians with an autism diagnosis verified by a healthcare provider. Cards help first responders and law enforcement understand and assist individuals during potentially stressful interactions.

Rhode Island Reports Decline in Sexually Transmitted Infection Cases

The Rhode Island Department of Health announced that sexually transmitted infection (STI) cases in the state have declined. This press release reports positive epidemiological data from the state's public health surveillance. No new regulatory requirements or compliance obligations are imposed on healthcare providers or the public.

Magics Beach Grill Reopens After Cold-Holding Temperature Violations

The Hawaii Department of Health authorized the reopening of Magics Beach Grill in Kailua-Kona on April 12, 2026, after the restaurant corrected critical food safety violations that prompted a red 'closed' placard on April 9. Violations included multiple foods held above the required 41°F cold-holding temperature and non-compliant refrigeration units. The establishment disposed of affected foods, serviced refrigeration equipment, and retrained employees before receiving authorization to resume operations.