AGP Executive Report

Rural Health Workforce Boost: Ohio University is receiving $10 million through the State of Ohio’s Rural Health Transformation Program to expand the rural health workforce, with OHIO leading a statewide strategy that connects employers, schools, training programs, and community partners. Cancer Care + Mental Health: Kettering Cancer Center launched a program to treat anxiety and depression as part of cancer care, aiming to improve treatment follow-through and outcomes. Health Alert—Cyclospora Surge: Cyclosporiasis (“explosive diarrhea”) continues spreading across the U.S., with hundreds of cases reported in Ohio and major hotspots in Michigan; officials urge careful produce washing and extra food-safety precautions while investigators search for the source. Tobacco Policy at Casinos: Dayton-area casinos and racinos are expanding indoor smoking “patios” despite the state’s indoor smoking ban, raising public health concerns about enforcement and exposure. PFAS Water Worries: Dayton is facing renewed scrutiny over PFAS contamination risk, including questions about whether chemicals from the Fire Training Center affected drinking water wells. Community Health Access: Grace Clinics of Ohio and the Jackson County Health Department will offer free sports physicals and immunizations for kids July 14 in Wellston. Public Safety: A chemical explosion injured a worker at a plastics facility in Ohio; firefighters contained hazards and reported no release to the air.

Rural Health Workforce Boost: Ohio University received $10M to expand the rural health workforce through the State’s Rural Health Transformation Program, helping build Health Workforce Ohio and connect employers, schools, and training to recruit and retain clinicians in underserved rural communities. Heat Safety Help for Ohioans: The Summer Crisis Program (HEAP) is open July 1–Sept. 30, offering aid for electric bills and cooling needs for eligible households, including those with medical conditions or seniors. Produce-Linked Outbreak Watch: Cyclosporiasis (Cyclospora) cases are surging nationwide, with Michigan reporting over 1,500 and Ohio reporting hundreds; health officials stress careful produce washing, hand hygiene, hydration, and staying home if sick. Community Access & Support: Dayton will mark the ADA’s 36th anniversary with an event featuring resources, interactive activities, and local disability-rights partners. Workplace Wellness: Ohio University’s WellWorks wellness center is expanding employee health support with fitness access, classes, assessments, and a visit-reward program. Public Safety: A Jackson County man’s body was recovered after a drowning at Big Wolf Lake, following a multi-agency search.

Rural Health Push: Ohio University received $10 million to expand the rural health workforce via the State of Ohio’s Rural Health Transformation Program, helping connect employers, schools, training providers, and community groups to recruit and retain clinicians in underserved areas. Food Safety Alert: A fast-growing Cyclospora outbreak tied to “explosive” watery diarrhea is surging across the U.S., with Michigan reporting nearly 1,000+ cases and Ohio seeing hundreds; health officials urge careful produce handling and note testing often requires a specific request. Local Outbreak Watch: Stark County reports confirmed and probable cases rising, while guidance continues to emphasize prevention as investigators still can’t name a specific source. Community Health Funding: The Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley awarded about $921K in grants to nonprofits addressing local needs, including health-focused support. Public Safety & Care Strain: Vinton County is seeking help to care for 16 siblings rescued from a squalid home, as medical and child welfare costs strain a small county.

Cyclospora/Cyclosporiasis Outbreak: Ohio’s “explosive diarrhea” parasite cases more than doubled in a week, reaching 364 cases and 46 hospitalizations as health officials still can’t pinpoint the source; Michigan is reporting far higher totals, and CDC-linked investigations are expanding across multiple states. Public Health Guidance: Kentucky also confirmed more than 50 cases, with officials urging strict food-safety habits—especially washing produce thoroughly and refrigerating cut or prepared foods quickly. Health Access & Costs: A new analysis warns Obamacare premiums could rise again in 2027, fueling affordability concerns and fears of a “death spiral” as healthier people leave the ACA marketplace. Heat & Homelessness: A central Ohio heat wave pushed Franklin County shelter demand to near 600 people on the waitlist, prompting changes like a cap on how long people can stay listed. Care at Home: Local coverage highlights growing demand for in-home senior care as more older adults try to age in place with caregiver support. Ohio Policy Watch: Cook Political Report shifted the Ohio governor’s race to a toss-up, reflecting a tighter contest between Amy Acton and Vivek Ramaswamy. Wellness in the Community: Ohio University’s WellWorks expands employee wellness access with fitness, classes, and a rewards program for frequent visits.

Cyclospora Surge: Michigan’s biggest-ever cyclosporiasis outbreak keeps climbing, with 992 cases reported and Ohio’s border counties already seeing hundreds more; Hamilton County alone is tracking 13 cases as health departments interview patients and still can’t name a single source. Local Food Safety: Ohio health officials are urging extra care with fruits and vegetables—wash thoroughly, watch for watery diarrhea that can last weeks, and seek medical help if symptoms hit hard. Public Health Alerts: CDC is also warning West Nile virus season is starting earlier and more aggressively than in decades, pushing mosquito precautions across many states. Community Wellness Access: United Way of North Central Ohio and Marion City Schools are launching a Community Hub School pilot at Grant Middle School to bring wellness and family supports under one roof. Road Safety: A deadly Clermont County motorcycle crash killed one person and sent another to the hospital as OSHP investigates.

Cyclosporiasis Update (Ohio): Ohio health officials say cyclosporiasis cases keep climbing, with 177 cases in 43 counties as of July 2 and 28 hospitalizations—no deaths reported. The state is urging extra care with produce washing and hand hygiene, since the parasite is spread through contaminated food or water and can cause dehydration from prolonged watery diarrhea. Multi-state Outbreak Watch: The outbreak is now under investigation in 29 states, with Michigan reporting nearly 1,000 cases and Texas also seeing a seasonal rise; investigators still haven’t pinned down a single source. Local Food Safety Response: As the outbreak grows, Taco Bell has pulled certain produce ingredients from menus at some locations, citing the investigation and advising customers to wash and handle food carefully. Mental Health Access (Cincinnati area): CareSource is bringing an outdoor Cincinnati vs. Ohio State and Xavier vs. Dayton doubleheader to support adolescent and young adult mental health and suicide prevention. Community Health Infrastructure (Kentucky): OneQuest Health opened a new Louisville outpatient behavioral health office, expanding therapy and intensive outpatient services amid workforce and Medicaid pressures. Public Safety (Akron): Akron police charged a 14-year-old after a dog attack led to the death of a 15-year-old, raising questions about safety and emergency response.

Food Safety Alert: Ohio health officials report cyclosporiasis (“explosive diarrhea”) is spreading, with 177 cases statewide as of July 2 and dozens of counties affected—officials urge careful handwashing and thorough produce washing, and to seek medical care if symptoms hit hard or linger. Public Health Access: Belmont County debuted its first free harm reduction vending machine in Martins Ferry, stocked with Narcan kits, Deterra bags, sharps containers, hygiene kits, and 988/911 guidance. Rural Workforce: Gov. DeWine announced Ohio University as the first recipient of the Rural Health Transformation Program, aiming to expand rural healthcare training, apprenticeships, and recruitment. Behavioral Health Capacity: The Jefferson County Prevention and Recovery Board highlighted the need for stronger crisis behavioral health services, stressing the economic and community impact of licensed providers. Community Safety: Columbiana County health leaders pushed swim safety tips, including “water watcher” supervision, life jackets, and avoiding swimming when sick. Local Health Policy: A “No Wrong Door” model podcast spotlights how Washington County is coordinating services so families in crisis can actually find help. Opioid Overdose Prevention: The FDA approved a third over-the-counter naloxone nasal spray (Rextovy), expanding access to reverse opioid overdoses. Workplace/Health Coverage: Talks between Premier Health and UnitedHealthcare remain stuck, raising the risk that up to 70,000 local residents could face out-of-network care.

Public Health Alert: Ohio is seeing a fast-rising cyclosporiasis outbreak, with 177 cases reported as of July 2 and at least 28 hospitalizations; ODH Director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff says the parasite can cause weeks of watery or “explosive” diarrhea and urges emergency care if symptoms hit. Food Safety Guidance: Health officials are still investigating the source and stress extra precautions when handling fruits and vegetables, since the illness is typically linked to contaminated produce. Local Safety & Health: A 10-year-old girl in Harrison Township was treated after a gunshot graze wound to the head—officials say she was “an inch” from a fatal outcome. Care Access & Costs: Gov. Mike DeWine signed new Medicaid provider regulations aimed at reducing fraud and misuse, but some providers warn added prior authorization steps could delay home- and community-based care. Workforce & Patient Experience: Wisconsin hospitals lead the nation in nurse communication ratings, with Ohio ranking fourth—an issue that matters for how patients understand and feel supported during care.

Heat & Safety: New Jersey reported at least 19 suspected heat-related deaths over the July 4 weekend, with many victims found in homes without air conditioning as temperatures hit the 90s to near 110 heat index. Foodborne Illness Watch: Cyclosporiasis/cyclosporiasis-linked “explosive diarrhea” continues to surge nationwide, with CDC reporting at least 145 cases across 17 states and Michigan alone reaching 700; Ohio health officials are also investigating cases and urging careful produce washing and prompt medical care for sudden diarrhea. Local Health & Community: A Warren SUV crash into Planet Fitness involved suspected overdose; both people were revived with Narcan and taken to hospital, and the driver faces charges. Public Health Policy: Gov. Mike DeWine signed 13 bills, including one requiring Ohio schools to teach the “Success Sequence,” a move that drew debate over whether it oversimplifies poverty causes. Health Care & Jobs: Amgen opened a new assembly and packaging facility in New Albany, creating up to 400 jobs to meet rising demand for its medicines. Wellness Q&A: A Dear Dr. Roach column discusses possible skin reactions after switching blood pressure meds, including when to consider changing back. Substance Use Treatment: A Rutgers Health study finds long-acting injectable buprenorphine for opioid use disorder is rapidly growing, with big differences in uptake across states and payers.

Healthcare Access & Costs: New federal data shows Obamacare enrollment dropped sharply after enhanced subsidies expired, with Ohio among states losing nearly one-third of ACA enrollees—raising concerns that higher premiums are pushing people off coverage. Infectious Disease Watch: Cyclosporiasis (Cyclospora) is surging beyond normal seasonal patterns, with Ohio reporting 177 cases since the start of the year (171 in June) as health officials work to identify the source and urge hydration and medical care for severe diarrhea. Local Health Systems: Cleveland Clinic is expanding Saturday elective surgery and procedure offerings to more Northeast Ohio locations, aiming to reduce scheduling delays. Community Health & Safety: A Warren Planet Fitness crash sent two people to the hospital after a vehicle drove into the building. Public Health & Wellness in Ohio: WalletHub ranks Cleveland and Akron among the most stressed cities in the U.S., highlighting the mental and physical strain that can affect health. Child Welfare Crisis: In Vinton County, authorities say 16 children were found living in squalid conditions, and South Central Ohio Job and Family Services is setting up a trust as the community seeks ways to help.

Rare-Earth Security: The U.S. Army selected REalloys to build and run the first commercial heavy rare-earth processing site on a military installation at Tooele Army Depot in Utah, targeting dysprosium and terbium for defense magnets and aiming for commercial operations by 2027–2028. Wellness Caution: Ohio State experts warn against “maxxing” health trends that push extreme diet, fitness, sleep, and supplements without solid proof, noting risks like nutrient gaps and unsafe supplement levels. FDA Hormone Update: The FDA is loosening testosterone replacement therapy labeling after research found no major cardiovascular harm in the TRAVERSE study, though monitoring is still advised. Public Health Watch: Cyclospora is reported in 17 states, with officials saying there’s no confirmed single food or water source yet. Local Safety & Health: A fatal I-75 crash in Shelby County remains under investigation; in Medina, neighbors and responders rescued people trapped after a drain-cleaning incident. Community Care Access: Operation BRIDGE Days returns in Salem and East Liverpool to connect residents with substance-use and mental-health help, plus naloxone and free meals. Workforce & Training: Ohio State Highway Patrol graduates a new basic peace officer class, and NSF funding supports a new research administration career pathway.

Ohio Parasite Watch: Ohio health officials report a surge in cyclosporiasis (Cyclospora) with 177 cases across 43 counties in 2026, mostly since June 20, as a broader multi-state outbreak continues. Local Health Access: Ohio State Wexner Medical Center research finds 29% of young adults lack a primary care provider, and even among those who do, preventive visits are slipping. Cancer Screening Disparities: A new OSU Wexner study finds women who identify as a sexual orientation minority are less likely to get breast and cervical cancer screenings than heterosexual women. Food Safety Recall: The FDA warns ALDI shoppers to check for a recalled kimchi & tofu kimbap product that may contain undeclared tuna. Care Costs: Patients say hospital-owned clinics are hitting them with surprise “facility fees,” adding hundreds to routine visits. First Responder Support: Gov. DeWine signed legislation funding Ohio’s Post-Traumatic Stress Fund Commission for first responders. Public Health Innovation: Ohio State researchers say a CRISPR-based vaccine candidate fully protected animals from leishmaniasis and is moving toward human testing.

Heat & food-safety watch: Federal health officials report cyclosporiasis cases in 17 states, including Ohio, with no single food source identified yet—CDC says the parasite spreads through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Local public health access: Ohio hospital news includes OBH adding five new providers to expand care options. Community health & connection: Southeast Ohio’s “Season of Connection” program is bringing older adults together with free movie events and mental wellness resources. Safety after the holiday: A wrong-way crash in East Liverpool sent an Ohio State Highway Patrol cruiser overturning; a trooper and others were treated, with the case under investigation. Violence prevention in Cincinnati-area neighborhoods: Leaders in Lincoln Heights are meeting to stop the next act of violence after a fatal shooting, focusing on reaching young people early. Major child welfare case: Parents and grandparents tied to the rescue of 16 children from squalid conditions in Vinton County face felony child endangerment charges, with medical exams and hospitalizations reported. Medication misuse warning: A “Benadryl challenge” story highlights risks of taking too much OTC allergy medicine for a high.

Norovirus Watch: The CDC says a norovirus outbreak on Princess Cruises’ Ruby Princess sickened 102 passengers and 23 crew after a stop in Canada, with symptoms mainly diarrhea and vomiting. Heat & Power Strain: A major summer heat wave is pushing cooling costs higher, with electricity spending projected to hit record levels—especially in states including Ohio. Foodborne Illness Alert: Health officials are investigating a fast-growing cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to “explosive” diarrhea, with cases reported across multiple states and no single food source confirmed yet. Local EMS Decision: Elyria’s EMS committee backed keeping its ambulance contract with LifeCare after reviewing costs and response quality. Environmental Health Concern: Ohio residents in the Hocking River area are pushing back on a proposed plastics plant, warning about water and air impacts. Public Safety: Parkersburg firefighters are battling a warehouse fire that triggered a shelter-in-place order due to smoke described as “somewhat toxic,” urging people to avoid breathing fumes. Community Health & Access: Knox Public Health highlighted its 150-year evolution, including disease prevention, sanitation, food safety, and expanded care through modern programs.

Extreme Heat & Power Strain: A Cleveland woman reported being without power since Friday, risking spoiled food and insulin refrigeration while heat inside her home worsened after limited holiday staffing. Storm Safety: July 4 plans across the East were disrupted as thunderstorms triggered evacuations and delays, with organizers urging people to seek shelter and watch for severe wind and lightning. Local Health & Community: Lima’s Star-Spangled Spectacular kicked off with the 32nd Freedom 5K, drawing 500+ walkers/runners and highlighting a return to stronger turnout after COVID. Child Welfare Crisis: Ohio authorities described 16 children rescued from deplorable conditions as “almost feral,” with multiple children needing hospital care and parents/grandparents facing charges—raising urgent concerns about long-term trauma support and specialized placements. First Responder Mental Health: A three-county outreach delivered 220+ wellness kits and suicide prevention resources to first responders, including 988 Lifeline info. Public Safety Warnings: Police in Canton urged caution after celebratory gunfire left a woman critically injured while asleep. Health Spotlight: A national story on delayed diagnosis underscores how self-advocacy can be lifesaving when symptoms like swelling and high blood pressure are dismissed.

Extreme Heat & Storm Safety: A dangerous July 4 heat wave is pushing heat indexes to 100–115 across much of the Ohio Valley, with officials urging hydration, cooling centers, and limiting outdoor time. Public Health—Parasite Outbreak: Cyclosporiasis linked to “explosive” diarrhea is spreading, with Michigan reporting a major surge and Ohio among states tracking cases. Local Health Infrastructure: Cleveland Clinic’s emergency department expansion is moving forward as it seeks a Level 1 trauma center, with debate over whether Cleveland needs a third Level 1 site. Health Access & Policy: A push to “get ICE out” of Riverside Methodist Hospital highlights fears that enforcement at hospitals could deter people from seeking care. Community Health & Food Security: Wooster City Schools received a $15,000 grant to expand school food pantries and add nutrition education, including refrigeration support for heart-healthy meals. Healthcare Market Watch: Kroger’s $1.65B deal to buy Giant Eagle could reshape pharmacy and grocery access across northern Ohio and beyond. Safety Incident: Erie County Route 2 reopened after a man reported a possible explosion; officials treated it as a safety risk and cleared the scene.