AGP Executive Report

School Safety Tech Push: A new K-12 case management platform is rolling out to help districts embed behavioral threat and suicide risk assessment into existing student support systems, as more states—including North Carolina—tighten requirements for threat assessment teams. Heat & Heart Health: ECU Health cardiology experts warn that extreme heat can strain the heart, especially for older adults and people with heart disease, urging hydration before going outdoors. Vape Shop Crackdown: A new North Carolina law adds a $1,000 annual license tax for vape shops, requires age verification for anyone under 21, and expands enforcement power to investigate and seize illegal products. Cancer Care Decision Tool: UNC researchers highlight Prosigna, a breast cancer test that can help many high-risk patients avoid chemotherapy in favor of hormone therapy when appropriate. Bees Under Pressure: UNCG is partnering with beekeepers to study varroa mite resistance and improve breeding for hygienic bee behavior to protect colonies. Healthcare Access & Costs: A new analysis argues Medicare imaging payments have fallen sharply in real terms since 2005, contributing to access gaps for seniors. Local Health System Watch: Asheville Watchdog reports Mission Hospital faces “potential noncompliance” findings tied to service reductions, as it works to stay in good standing with federal Medicare/Medicaid rules.

Nicotine & jobs: Philip Morris opened a $1.2B Zyn smokeless nicotine pouch manufacturing campus in Aurora, bringing about 500 jobs and positioning the site as an export hub for “modified risk tobacco products.” Food safety (cyclospora): North Carolina reported 561 cyclosporiasis cases as the nationwide outbreak grows; federal officials still haven’t pinned down a single source, while concerns keep circling around imported produce linked to central Mexico, including possible parsley/cilantro involvement. Public health guidance: A University of Minnesota food-safety educator urged residents not to panic-skip all fresh produce, but to follow safe handling and watch FDA/CDC updates as the outbreak expands to more states. Western NC recovery funding: Gov. Josh Stein celebrated $34.2M in federal economic development grants for Hurricane Helene recovery projects in Western North Carolina. Youth wellness & leadership: Natalia Estrada was elected president of the North Carolina 4-H State Council, highlighting the program’s focus on healthy living and STEM. Mental health outdoors: An N.C. State University study found that sitting in a restored urban forest while listening to birdsong reduced stress more than other tested settings. Policy & safety: North Carolina law enforcement groups pushed lawmakers to restrict sales of intoxicating CBD/THC products to minors under a proposed bill.

Integrative Pain Care Expansion (Matthews): Queen City Acupuncture & Wellness Center expanded its Matthews office, doubling treatment space and adding more same-day capacity for acupuncture, dry needling, cupping, shockwave therapy, and nutrition/herb support. Public Health Alert (Rabies Risk): Buncombe County warned people who visited a Candler wildlife rescue in the past six months to contact their health department for a rabies risk check after potential exposure concerns. Foodborne Illness Watch (Cyclospora): North Carolina is among states in a widening Cyclospora outbreak tied to fresh produce; officials urged safe food handling, hydration, and medical care if symptoms hit. Maternal Care Access: A new effort backed by the Leon Levine Foundation aims to bring prenatal and postpartum services to rural “maternity desert” counties, using a shared care model to reduce long travel for delivery and immediate newborn care. Community Pharmacy Support (Albmarle): NC MedAssist and Atrium Health Stanly plan a free mobile OTC medicine giveaway in August for Stanly County residents, with walk-ins welcome. Workforce & Health Education Pipeline: Craven Community College and Appalachian State’s Beaver College of Health Sciences created a guaranteed transfer pathway into health sciences programs, supporting local healthcare staffing needs.

Cyclospora Outbreak: The CDC/FDA say the multi-state cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce has widened to nine states, with 1,947 reported illnesses and at least 98 hospitalizations; North Carolina is included, and local health officials urge careful food handling and to seek care if symptoms hit. Maternity Care Access: A $2.8M Leon Levine Foundation grant will expand perinatal care into at least 10 rural “maternity desert” counties, aiming to bring prenatal and postpartum services closer to home. Back-to-School Health: North Carolina pediatricians and insurers are pushing families to book well-child checkups now for immunizations, vision/hearing screening, and mental health support. Food Assistance Boost: The new state budget adds $9M for North Carolina food banks, a 50% increase, to help meet rising demand as federal support fell. Duke Health in State Plan: Duke Health is joining the NC State Health Plan’s Access tier starting Jan. 1, aiming to improve affordability and access for members. Public Health & Safety Grants for Pets: A $10,000 grant will equip Dare County first responders with PAWmergency Safety Kits to safely handle pets during emergencies. Local Policy: Asheville is moving to expand its junk-vehicle litter law to tackle abandoned, trash-filled cars and boats that create health hazards. Health System Watch: An independent monitor flagged potential non-compliance in HCA’s Mission Health deal, with enforcement tied up in ongoing legal fights.

Food Safety: The FDA says a recalled Texas egg product from Midwest Poultry Services is a likely source of a Salmonella Enteritidis outbreak tied to 98 illnesses across 17 states, with 26 hospitalizations; investigators are still checking whether other foods contributed. Immigration & Health: ICE plans to reopen the Rivers Correctional Institution in Winton, NC, as a large for-profit immigrant detention facility, reviving past inmate complaints about medical care and staffing. Mental Wellness & Nature: An NC State study finds that just 10 minutes in a restored forest while listening to birdsong can measurably reduce stress and lift mood. Public Health Watch: The CDC and FDA widened the Cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce to nine states, reporting 1,947 illnesses and at least 98 hospitalizations, with no deaths reported. Local Care Environment: Novant Health Rowan Medical Center installed new murals meant to support healing in spaces like labor and delivery and the emergency room. Community & Belonging: Research highlights that people who feel disillusioned are more likely to act when they feel connected—an approach that could strengthen civic engagement.

Food Safety Watch: The CDC and FDA say the cyclospora outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce has spread to nine states, with 1,947 reported illnesses and at least 98 hospitalizations, while “lettuce-gate” chatter grows online; Taylor Farms says the FDA hasn’t confirmed positive testing on its samples and says it pulled implicated product and broadened its recall. Recall Alerts: Consumers are urged to check for recalled eggs after more than 19 million eggs were pulled over possible Salmonella exposure, and Amy’s Kitchen recalled about 184,000 cans of lentil soup in 27 states due to spoilage risk. Access to Care: Duke Health opened a new outpatient surgical clinic in Mooresville to bring specialty care closer to home in a medically underserved area. Local Health System Scrutiny: An independent monitor flagged potential non-compliance issues in HCA’s 2019 Mission Health deal, including service availability and federal “good standing” concerns. Prebiotic Soda Reality Check: UNC researchers report many prebiotic sodas may contain less prebiotic fiber and more sugar than labels suggest.

Cyclospora Outbreak Update: The CDC and FDA expanded the multistate cyclosporiasis investigation tied to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell, adding Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania to the original states—now nine states total with about 1,947 reported illnesses and at least 98 hospitalizations, while a separate FDA-tracked cluster of 72 cases has no identified source. Food Safety & Recalls: Taylor Farms says it issued an urgent recall and suspended central Mexico iceberg lettuce sourcing/production while reviewing its food-safety protocols; separately, the FDA also linked a salmonella outbreak to recalled eggs from Midwest Poultry Services, with illnesses reported in 17 states including North Carolina. Healthcare Workforce: East Carolina University’s physician assistant studies program officially joined the Brody School of Medicine, aiming to strengthen training and workforce development in eastern North Carolina. Hospital Competition Watch: A new column argues North Carolina’s hospital market needs more competition as leaders debate consolidation and mergers. Community Health & Recovery: Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino opened an outpatient addiction recovery center in Matthews, expanding local treatment options. STEM for Youth: A Rocky Mount youth STEAM summit brought high school students together with STEM and forestry partners to explore career paths.

Cyclospora Outbreak: CDC says the worst U.S. cyclospora season on record has now spread to 9 states tied to shredded iceberg lettuce from central Mexico, with Taylor Farms issuing new statements and recalls while investigators sort out multiple clusters and false-positive confusion. North Carolina Health Impact: NC reports rising cases, including a Wayne County confirmation and hundreds of statewide investigations, plus schools pulling fresh produce as officials warn symptoms can be severe and dehydration may require care. Food Safety Recalls: Separate from cyclospora, FDA recalls include Amy’s Organic Lentil Soup cans over spoilage risk, adding to consumer worry during peak summer illness season. Addiction Treatment: Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino opened an outpatient recovery center in Matthews, aiming to reduce stigma and expand access to substance-use care. Outdoor Health: With tick bites at a 10-year high in the Southeast, NC experts urge permethrin-treated clothing, repellents, and thorough tick checks after time outdoors. Public Health & Access: North Carolina’s new Health Care Affordability Commission begins work as affordability and hospital price concerns remain front and center. Immigration Detention: Reports say ICE plans to reopen a large detention facility in Winton, NC, drawing sharp criticism over past health and safety complaints. Weather & Farming: Much-needed rain brings drought relief but also flood risk in the Cape Fear region, where crops may still be damaged.

Cyclospora Update: Federal health officials say a new cyclosporiasis cluster has sickened 72 people, while North Carolina’s own case count keeps climbing, including a confirmed case in Onslow County and reports that cases have nearly doubled since last year. Food Safety & Recalls: The FDA is still investigating what products are linked, with attention on bagged, cut, or mixed lettuce and earlier focus on Taylor Farms-linked iceberg lettuce; officials also warn that some recall chatter may be confusing. Public Health Response: Schools and local health departments are adjusting guidance as the outbreak spreads, and the CDC says the multistate outbreak has expanded to nine states. Workforce & Care Access: UNC will add a Bachelor of Social Work to meet demand, and Craven Community College received a health information tech grant to support students. Community Health Support: EPIC in eastern North Carolina launched its first community diaper drive to help families facing rising costs. Equine Health Research: USDA’s NAHMS plans a voluntary 2026 equine study to track disease risks and improve preparedness.

Food Safety Watch: A new cyclospora investigation is underway after 72 people reported sick, while schools in North Carolina weigh pulling fresh produce as cases rise nationwide. Public Health & Access: Social Security rolled out new online tools for disability claimants, letting people submit forms and track cases through my Social Security. Substance Use Response: CORE and Robeson Community College trained first responders in substance-use skills like de-escalation and harm reduction. Local Wellness Funding: New Hanover County ABC Board awarded $600,000 in grants to nonprofits tackling alcohol and substance misuse prevention, recovery, and treatment. Healthcare Workforce: A Navy nurse at Camp Lejeune received a Defense Health Agency award for improving pediatric trauma blood infusion care. Community Health Tech: Cumberland County was named a 2026 Digital Counties Survey winner for expanding digital equity and online services. Nutrition & Recall: Midwest Poultry Services recalled about 19 million eggs over potential salmonella contamination. Policy & Care: Durham’s Operation Stop CPS is questioning Durham County’s new Family Treatment Court funding and outcomes for children in DSS custody.

Cancer Care & Tobacco Cessation: A new nationwide trial finds proactive telehealth counseling plus nicotine replacement during active cancer treatment can double quit rates versus quitline referral alone. Public Health & Food Safety: North Carolina remains in the middle of the growing cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce; FDA recall updates and shifting case counts keep residents asking what’s safe to eat and what to avoid. State Health Policy: NCDHHS launched a 2026–2029 Traumatic Brain Injury action plan to expand community services, caregiver support, and prevention, with falls highlighted as a major driver of TBI harm. Care Access at Home: All Ways Caring HomeCare is opening a new Cornelius location to expand in-home support for seniors and people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Community Health & Equity: North Carolina’s push to improve reentry services continues, aiming to close gaps that affect health after incarceration. Health Coverage & Nutrition Support: SNAP enrollment is dropping as food pantry demand rises, while a federal report links gig work to increased reliance on food stamps and Medicaid. Local Wellness Infrastructure: A new statewide housing law targets North Carolina’s home shortage by encouraging construction and limiting large investor purchases—an indirect but important factor for health stability.

Cyclospora Outbreak: North Carolina health officials say cyclosporiasis cases have surged past 500 and are still climbing, with the source still under investigation as FDA updates on lettuce recalls add confusion for consumers. Food Security: SNAP enrollment is dropping in North Carolina even as food pantry demand rises, leaving more families relying on local help. Health Equity Under Scrutiny: The U.S. Department of Education is investigating ECU’s Brody School of Medicine over possible racial discrimination in admissions, a move tied to federal efforts to reshape diversity policies in medical training. Affordability Focus: The North Carolina Health Care Affordability Commission held its first meeting, aiming to improve costs, transparency, competition, and access statewide. Public Health & Environment: Drought conditions are stressing trees across the Cape Fear region, with neighbors reporting snapped limbs and increased vulnerability during hurricane season. Safety Updates: A deadly multi-vehicle crash shut down part of U.S. 117 in Pender County, and a separate report says an Iredell County man died after a collision on NC 152. Community Health: A free water-safety clinic in Wilmington is helping kids learn life-saving skills before summer ends.

Cyclosporiasis Surge: North Carolina’s cyclosporiasis cases jumped to 561 since May 1, with 254 more cases reported in a week; health officials still don’t have a single source, though parsley, cilantro and lettuce keep showing up in patient histories. Produce Safety Guidance: Buncombe County urged residents to properly handle, clean, and cook fresh produce as symptoms can include explosive watery diarrhea and some hospitalizations; treatment is available. GLP-1 Use & Nutrition: As more people start GLP-1s, experts warn that meal replacements can help with convenience, but patients still need guidance to avoid nutritional gaps. Diabetes Tech Access: Clinicians highlighted how continuous glucose monitoring can improve diabetes management and reduce barriers for people who don’t want frequent finger sticks. Medicare Weight-Loss Trial: Early reports from a new Medicare pilot suggest many older patients are choosing injectable GLP-1s despite expectations of pill preference. Hospital Oversight Staffing: Buncombe County’s nursing home inspection system is strained as the area struggles to recruit enough volunteers for regular oversight. Community Health Infrastructure: The Katie Blessing Center in east Charlotte is nearing completion of phase one, aiming to expand pediatric behavioral health care closer to home. Food Recall Alert: Fresh & Ready Foods recalled certain spicy breakfast burritos due to undeclared soy, including distribution in North Carolina. Public Health Research: UNC Charlotte researchers are ready to help trace cyclospora sources using DNA sequencing as the outbreak investigation continues. Wellness in Nature: NC State research found natural sights and sounds can reduce stress and boost positive emotions compared with urban traffic noise. Disaster Relief & Food Access: The Dairy Alliance’s “Dairy Does More” initiative delivered thousands of gallons of milk to Hurricane Helene recovery partners across western North Carolina. Environmental Cleanup: MountainTrue reported removing more than 150,000 pounds of storm debris from Watauga and Upper New River waterways since Helene response ramped up.

Cyclospora Update: North Carolina health officials say cyclosporiasis cases have surged to 561 since May 1, with 254 new cases in the past week and 16 hospitalizations; investigators still can’t pin down a single source, and officials stress that washing produce helps but isn’t a guarantee. Food Safety Alerts: The national outbreak has triggered a voluntary recall of certain iceberg lettuce products distributed in 27 states, but experts say most grocery-store lettuce isn’t affected—check labels and “best if used by” dates. GLP-1 & Alcohol Use Disorder: A new study reports that adults with alcohol use disorder who started newer GLP-1 receptor agonists (like semaglutide or tirzepatide) saw lower alcohol-related hospitalizations than other diabetes/obesity treatments. Community Health & Access: Feast Down East received a $10,000 grant to expand fresh food access in New Hanover County, aiming to reach thousands through partner agencies. Nursing Recognition: Two Cape Fear nurses were named to North Carolina’s Great 100 Nurses list, highlighting local clinical leadership and patient care.

Food Safety Alert: North Carolina health officials report at least 307 Cyclospora cases, with the national outbreak still evolving as FDA traceback work and testing results stay under scrutiny—consumers are being urged to be cautious with fresh produce while investigators sort out the source. Public Health: Mecklenburg County confirmed West Nile virus in mosquitoes, prompting residents to prevent bites by removing standing water and taking simple yard-care steps. Rural Health & Access: UNC Health Lenoir earned six American Heart Association awards, highlighting strong heart failure, stroke, and resuscitation outcomes for the community. Water Safety: Anson County residents faced nearly two weeks of unreliable, cloudy tap water after a pipe burst, exposing aging infrastructure concerns. Healthcare Accountability: A North Wilkesboro home care owner was sentenced to prison and ordered to pay $973,727 in restitution for willfully failing to remit trust fund taxes tied to employee payroll. Wellness & Prevention: A new Couples Heart & Lung Scan promotion spotlights early detection for lung cancer, priced for couples at $149. Community Reentry: North Carolina’s push to improve reentry services spotlights incarcerated women’s creative programs that help build skills, connection, and hope after release.

Cyclospora Update: FDA says a Taylor Farms lettuce test tied to the outbreak was a false positive, but the recall stays in place as health officials continue tracing the source and cases climb. School Food Safety: Wake and Durham districts pulled salads from menus as cyclospora cases rise, with infectious disease experts urging caution with produce and careful sanitization. Local Health Tech: Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center became the first in North Carolina to use FDA-cleared Penumbra THUNDERBOLT tech for ischemic stroke thrombectomy, aiming for faster clot removal with less risk to healthy tissue. Cancer Care Closer to Home: Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center in Boone installed a new Varian TrueBeam LINAC, bringing advanced radiation imaging and more precise treatment planning to patients in the High Country. Wildlife Conservation: North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission captured federally endangered Indiana bats in the Nantahala National Forest for the first time in over a decade, and plans ongoing monitoring of a maternity roost. Health Policy Watch: North Carolina’s Health Care Affordability Commission holds its first public meeting July 21 to tackle rising costs and affordability barriers. Food Recall Reach: Walmart and other retailers pulled specific Taylor Fresh Foods iceberg lettuce products sold in multiple states, including North Carolina, with “best if used by” dates through early August.