Maryland DOH News

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.

Maryland adds RAD drug data to overdose tracking

The Maryland Department of Health announced the addition of Rapid Analysis of Drugs (RAD) program data to the Maryland Overdose Data Dashboard. The RAD program, launched in 2021, has tested over 6,000 samples from 15 jurisdictions and is used to identify emerging substances like xylazine and medetomidine in the drug supply. The dashboard update provides treatment providers and public health officials with real-time data on substances circulating in Maryland communities.

Maryland Rural Health, Workforce, and Agriculture Funding Discussion

Maryland state agencies and partners met to discuss the potential impact of $168 million in federal funding for the Rural Health Transformation Program. The funding aims to strengthen rural health care, bolster the workforce, and support the agriculture industry in Maryland's Eastern Shore counties.

Recreational Water Advisory Partially Lifted in Montgomery County

Maryland health officials announced the partial lifting of a recreational water advisory in Montgomery County, impacted by a recent sewage spill. The advisory has been lifted for areas downriver from the spill site, beginning with Lock 8, based on acceptable E.coli bacteria levels.

Water Advisories Lifted for Charles and Prince George's Counties

Maryland health officials announced that recreational water advisories have been lifted for Charles and Prince George's counties due to improved water quality following a sewage spill. Advisories remain in effect for Montgomery County. Public drinking water is unaffected.

Maryland Proclaims Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month March 2026

The Governor of Maryland has proclaimed March 2026 as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. This proclamation highlights the state's commitment to inclusive environments and equal opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Maryland Awards $1.6M in Opioid Settlement Funds for Rural Peer Recovery Services

The Maryland Department of Labor, in partnership with other state agencies, has awarded $1.6 million in opioid settlement funds to eight community organizations. This funding, through the Rural Advancement for Maryland Peers (RAMP) program, will expand peer-led recovery services and support the training and certification of peer recovery specialists in rural communities.

Maryland Reports Increase in Mumps Cases

The Maryland Department of Health has reported an increase in mumps cases, with 26 cases confirmed or probable in 2026. The department emphasizes the effectiveness of the MMR vaccine in preventing the disease and advises individuals to consult their healthcare providers.

Maryland Food Licensing Streamlined for Farms

Maryland has introduced new legislation to streamline food licensing for farms, allowing for expanded on-farm food service operations. This initiative aims to strengthen the state's agricultural economy by providing a clearer, more scalable regulatory framework for farmers.