AGP Executive Report

Measles Fight in PA: The CDC is excluding two “measles-associated” deaths reported by Pennsylvania from its national tally while it reviews whether measles caused or contributed to the fatalities—fueling a high-stakes dispute involving Gov. Josh Shapiro and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Public Health & Access: Pennsylvania health officials continue urging MMR vaccination as the outbreak grows, with doctors and local leaders pushing back on misinformation that could undermine trust. Veterans Care Tech: Pennsylvania deployed Healium Clinical across all six state veterans homes, giving residents a self-guided stress-reduction tool. Donation Spotlight: Penn Highlands Healthcare earned multiple awards for organ, eye, and tissue donation outreach. Women’s Mental Health: Sunstone Psychiatry for Women expanded its team with a new CRNP to boost care capacity. Cybersecurity in Health: Class-action investigations are underway after data breaches tied to healthcare organizations exposed sensitive personal and health records. Safety & Emergencies: Crews resumed the search for three missing boaters after a Monongahela River collision; officials say the effort has shifted to recovery. Food Recall Watch: FDA recalls of mangoes and other products over Salmonella and contamination risks keep shoppers on alert. Community Health Policy: A Pennsylvania school district faces a lawsuit over alleged excessive screen time tied to internet-connected devices.

Newborn Health & Vaccines: A Reuters analysis finds vitamin K shot refusals for infants accelerated sharply in 2026, with non-receipt jumping more than 57% from January through June—raising risk of dangerous bleeding in newborns. Measles in Pennsylvania: The state reports 497 measles cases across 34 counties, with 87 hospitalizations and 2 measles-associated deaths, and points families to the DOH dashboard and MMR protection. Food Safety: FDA recall alerts expanded for potentially contaminated foods sold in Pennsylvania, including mangoes sold at Walmart over possible Salmonella risk and a separate white rice recall tied to contamination concerns. Women’s Preventive Care: Pennsylvania’s Insurance Department highlighted free preventive screenings and services for women through insurance plans during a Women’s Equality Day outreach tour with Penn Medicine and state partners. Local Health Systems: Penn Health System posted a $337 million operating profit in FY26, with outpatient services driving much of the growth. EMS & Credentialing Tech: OneDose launched AI-powered EMS credential tracking that lets providers scan certification documents and manage expirations.

Measles Watch: Pennsylvania health officials confirmed 497 measles cases across 34 counties in 2026, with 87 hospitalizations and two measles-associated deaths, as the CDC’s national tally continues to exclude the Pennsylvania deaths amid a high-stakes dispute. Patient Safety: Pennsylvania AG Dave Sunday warned MyChart users about a phishing scam targeting the patient portal. Healthcare Workforce: Crothall Healthcare plans layoffs of 545 employees tied to a VCU Health contract ending, with a new contractor set to take over. Food & Drug Alerts: FDA and Panorama Produce issued a multistate recall of “Martina Mangos” sold at select Walmart stores due to possible Salmonella contamination, and Lundberg Family Farms expanded a white jasmine rice recall to more states. Consumer Protection: Delaware and other states, plus the FTC, sued Amazon over alleged ad-auction rigging that overcharged advertisers by more than $20 billion. Community Health: Hunger Action Month efforts are ramping up across Pennsylvania, with food banks linking residents to health, housing, and employment resources. Wellness Access: Locust Lake State Park added an ADA-accessible canoe and kayak launch to make paddling more inclusive.

Medicaid Shake-Up: Pennsylvania is bracing for major federal Medicaid changes in January, including new work rules and more frequent eligibility checks for some adults; officials estimate hundreds of thousands could lose coverage, and a Guthrie health system is expanding volunteer support to help patients meet the new 80-hour monthly community engagement requirement. Measles Data Fight: The CDC posted a delayed national measles update showing 2,903 cases, while Pennsylvania’s two measles-associated deaths were not counted federally as the agency reviews whether measles caused or contributed. Tick Season Shift: Fall tick risks are changing in Pennsylvania, with anaplasmosis rising and sometimes overlapping with Lyme—meaning symptoms can be missed or misread. Cancer Supply Chain: Construction is underway near Penn’s campus on a $450M facility to produce actinium-225, a key isotope for cancer treatments, aiming for operations in 2029. Food Safety Recall: FDA expanded a recall of Lundberg Family Farms white jasmine rice sold in 13 states, including Pennsylvania, over possible foreign material contamination. Public Health & Safety: A tugboat collision on the Monongahela River left three people unaccounted for and two others critically injured; responders are searching the wreckage in dark conditions.

Measles Fight in PA: Pennsylvania’s measles outbreak remains a political flashpoint, with reported deaths and competing claims about what happened driving public health and government leaders into a public argument. AG Action on Social Media Addiction: Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced a new lawsuit against Snapchat, alleging the app fails to warn users about addictiveness and doesn’t adequately protect children. Food Safety Recall: The FDA expanded a recall of nearly 55,000 pounds of Lundberg Family Farms white jasmine rice sold in multiple states, including Pennsylvania, after potential contamination with foreign material; check UPC 073416040281 and affected lot/best-by dates. Substance Use Support: More than 30 groups held “Hope Over Stigma” at Kirby Park in Wilkes-Barre, connecting people and families to treatment, harm reduction, and recovery resources. Local Health Care Costs (Medicaid): New data show rising Medicaid billing in several PA communities, including higher spending for vision services, surgery, radiology procedures, and ambulance/transport. Violence & Safety: Police report a patient accused of assaulting two EMTs during a Berks County ambulance transport, and a separate shooting in Philadelphia left a woman with a chest wound and a neck graze.

Measles & Public Health: Pennsylvania’s measles outbreak keeps driving national attention, with the state reporting nearly 500 cases and two “measles-associated” deaths—sparking a fierce fight over what’s medically accurate and what’s political. Vaccine Misinformation Clash: Doctors in Philly are warning families about federal vaccine timing changes and the risks of delayed or altered MMR schedules, as RFK Jr. and others question the deaths and fuel doubt. Local Health Messaging: The dispute is also highlighting how hard it is to communicate disease details clearly, even as public health officials push vaccination reminders and booster questions. Hospital Worker Safety: Hospital strikes are tied to violence against healthcare workers and staffing shortages, adding pressure on Pennsylvania’s care system. Medicaid Spending Watch: New local Medicaid billing figures show rising claims in multiple categories across PA communities, including ambulance/transport and substance abuse treatment. Big Tech & Kids Online: A multistate settlement with Meta would require child-safety features like time limits and nighttime blocks, with Pennsylvania set to benefit. Food Safety: The FDA updated a white rice recall tied to potential foreign material contamination, including distribution in Pennsylvania.

Measles Update & Politics: Pennsylvania’s Department of Health says confirmed measles cases have reached 460 across 31 counties, with the state urging MMR vaccination as the best protection. Local Health Transparency Fight: The outbreak has turned into a public clash between Gov. Josh Shapiro and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., after Lancaster County officials questioned whether two “measles-associated” deaths were accurately characterized. IV Safety Recall: Two companies recalled certain IV fluids due to possible particulate contamination, including zinc oxide in B. Braun saline and fiberglass particles in Baxter’s dialysis priming solution. Skilled Trades Workforce: Pennsylvania continues pushing apprenticeships and trade pathways, with coverage highlighting how programs can lead to stable, well-paid careers and more women entering skilled trades. Community Health & Support: The Upper Perkiomen YMCA was named Non-Profit of the Year for expanding access to programs, childcare, and community connection. Workforce & Care Growth: Penn Medicine reported a $337 million operating profit and noted growth in outpatient services, while a Penn-linked biotech, Dispatch Bio, launched its first clinical trial for hard-to-treat solid tumors. Public Safety: A multi-vehicle crash and fire shut down Pittsburgh’s Squirrel Hill Tunnel, sending two people to the hospital with minor injuries.

Measles Watch: Pennsylvania’s outbreak keeps surging, with the state reporting 460 cases across 31 counties and 83 hospitalizations; Centre County is up to 15, Snyder 21, Northumberland 7, and Dauphin and Lycoming each at 3, while Penn State urged community caution and reminded students to confirm they’re up to date on two MMR doses. Public Health vs. Politics: After two “measles-associated” deaths in Lancaster County, the dispute over what was disclosed and what caused the fatalities has spilled into a broader fight between Gov. Josh Shapiro and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., with experts warning the controversy is distracting from prevention. School Nutrition: USDA and HHS announced the “Harvest to Hallways” initiative to strengthen school meals by linking schools with local farmers and investing in kitchen infrastructure. Cybersecurity for Patients: Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday warned MyChart users about a phishing scam offering a fake “MyChart Medicare Kit,” urging people not to click links and to contact providers directly. Rural Care: A new Center for Rural Pennsylvania report finds rural hospital mergers don’t reliably improve outcomes, stressing that local planning and community engagement matter.

Measles in Pennsylvania: The state says confirmed measles cases have climbed to 460 across 31 counties, with 83 hospitalizations and two deaths reported—both tied to unvaccinated people—while Lancaster County remains the hardest hit. Vaccine politics & accountability: The outbreak has sparked a fierce public fight over whether the deaths were truly measles-caused, with the Lancaster County coroner disputing the state’s “associated” framing. Patient safety scams: Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday warned of phishing messages impersonating MyChart, including fake “reward” offers meant to steal passwords and personal info; officials say MyChart has no such program. Foodborne outbreak watch: CDC updates show cyclosporiasis linked to recalled iceberg lettuce has expanded to 20 states, with thousands of illnesses reported nationwide. Mosquito risk: West Nile virus was detected in Lewisburg-area mosquitoes, prompting reminders to remove standing water and protect against bites. Mental health: A survivor describes postpartum psychosis as terrifying but treatable, underscoring the need for fast support. Community health: Independence Health System was recognized for organ, eye, and tissue donation outreach. Local wellness: UPMC Hamot marked 15 years in the UPMC system, highlighting growth in staff and patient demand.

Measles in Pennsylvania: State officials confirmed the first two measles-related deaths in 35 years in Lancaster County, both tied to unvaccinated people, as the outbreak climbs to about 393 cases across dozens of counties—sparking a fierce public fight over transparency and vaccine messaging. Food safety: The FDA escalated its cyclospora warning tied to recalled iceberg lettuce, adding more states to the outbreak linked to Taylor Farms and reporting thousands of illnesses and hundreds of hospitalizations nationwide, including Pennsylvania. Opioid response: Allegheny County released another $1.7 million from opioid settlement funds for outreach, recovery services, and harm-reduction efforts, including support for people dealing with xylazine wounds. Women’s health access: Penn Medicine and state officials highlighted free preventive services for women under the Affordable Care Act, noting many Pennsylvanians still don’t know what’s covered. Community health & safety: Reading Hospital teamed up with Harley-Davidson for a free “RIDE READY” event teaching motorcycle safety and emergency response skills. Youth justice: Ohio’s DYS received a Lucy Webb Hayes Award after achieving full ACA reaccreditation and complete PREA compliance. Wellness & prevention: A Penn State piece argues teen suicide prevention starts with everyday connection at home, school, and community—not just crisis hotlines.

Measles in PA: Pennsylvania reported two measles-associated deaths tied to the Lancaster County outbreak—the first in 35 years—prompting urgent school vaccination clinics and renewed calls for MMR. Local dispute: The Lancaster County coroner says one infant had measles antibodies but the death was due to a ruptured spleen, not measles, fueling a public fight over how the state labels causes of death. Vaccine politics: Gov. Josh Shapiro and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. traded accusations online, with Shapiro urging vaccination while critics accuse officials of fearmongering and withholding details. School response: Philadelphia schools are running vaccination efforts as measles spreads nationally and local immunization rates fall below herd-immunity targets. Family planning fight: Multiple states, including Pennsylvania, challenged new Title X funding conditions that would restrict services and patient eligibility. Big tech & youth mental health: Pennsylvania is set to receive up to $516M from a Meta settlement aimed at adding child-safety limits on Instagram and Facebook.

Measles & Vaccines: U.S. Health Secretary RFK Jr. faced pushback after questioning Pennsylvania’s reported measles deaths during remarks in Tampa, as Gov. Josh Shapiro criticized his vaccine skepticism and Lancaster County details remain disputed; meanwhile, Pennsylvania officials say two unvaccinated Lancaster County residents—including an infant—died from measles, the first state deaths in 35 years, as cases keep rising nationwide. Local Outbreak Update: Seneca County health officials say measles in the area meets outbreak criteria, with likely spread among unvaccinated residents. Food & Family Support: Pennsylvania’s SUN Bucks summer EBT program is still open for eligible families, with an Aug. 31 deadline for the $120-per-child benefit. Food Security Strain: Food banks across Pennsylvania are struggling to meet demand amid SNAP cuts and economic pressure. Mental Health Access: Two York County women describe how misdiagnosis or missed diagnoses delayed proper mental health care. Public Health & Environment: Pennsylvania is looking to reduce “forever chemicals” from sewage sludge used on farm fields. Community Health: Penn Highlands hospitals earned Donate Life Pennsylvania awards for organ donation awareness. Health Care Workforce: UPMC Washington School of Nursing held commencement for its latest class. Consumer Health: Bucks County authorities arrested a suspect in an EBT skimming case targeting SNAP users.

Measles Alert (Lancaster County): Pennsylvania confirmed two measles-related deaths—both unvaccinated—marking the first U.S. measles fatalities in 2026 and the first in the state in 35 years, as cases climb statewide and health officials push MMR catch-up, including pop-up clinics and early-dose guidance for infants in higher-risk situations. Public Health & Vaccination Debate: HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. publicly questioned Pennsylvania’s cooperation with the CDC, while Gov. Josh Shapiro warned that vaccine skepticism is fueling outbreaks. Big Tech Child-Safety (Meta): PA Attorney General Dave Sunday announced a landmark multistate Meta settlement expected to bring at least $516M to Pennsylvania, with new limits and safeguards for teens on Facebook and Instagram. West Nile (Butler Township): A mosquito sample in Butler Township tested positive for West Nile virus; officials urged residents to use repellent and reduce standing water. Wildlife Health (Rabies): Cheltenham Township reported a rabid coyote put down by police and advised residents to seek care if exposed. School Wellness (Safety Grants): Pennsylvania school safety and mental health grants were announced for multiple districts, supporting security upgrades and behavioral health services. Community Support (Overdose Awareness): Delaware Valley events marked International Overdose Awareness Day with vigils and local resources.

Measles Alert (PA): Pennsylvania confirmed its first measles-related deaths in 35 years—both in unvaccinated Lancaster County residents—as cases climb to 393 across 28 counties, with pop-up vaccination clinics ramping up and officials urging families to check MMR status. School Vaccination Gaps (Philly region): An Inquirer analysis found double-digit drops in kindergarten measles protection across dozens of Philadelphia-area schools, leaving about 40% of classrooms vulnerable during the 2025-2026 school year. Local Health Response (Mercer & beyond): State maps show measles spreading statewide, including Mercer County, where school MMR rates vary widely. Online Child Safety (PA AG): Attorney General Dave Sunday filed a lawsuit against Snapchat, alleging the app is addictive and fails to protect children from compulsive use. Community Recovery (Centre County): Centre County marked National Recovery Month and International Overdose Awareness Day with plans to expand overdose prevention and addiction recovery support. Fitness & Wellness (Retro Fitness): Retro Fitness signed a multi-unit development deal to bring its “high-value, low-price” model to new communities, including plans tied to Pennsylvania.

Measles Alert: Pennsylvania confirmed two measles-associated deaths in Lancaster County—both unvaccinated—marking the first measles fatalities in the state in 35 years as cases near 400 statewide, with officials urging MMR vaccination and noting measles can linger in the air for hours. Public Health Response: State and local leaders pointed to declining kindergarten vaccination rates and expanded outbreak tracking, while hospitals and clinicians emphasized that MMR is the best protection. Tech & Youth Safety: Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday sued Snapchat, alleging addictive design and misleading marketing that put children at risk, following similar action against TikTok. Cancer Care Access: Allegheny Health Network will collaborate with the START Center for Cancer Research to add an early-phase clinical trial site at AHN’s Allegheny General Hospital. Organ Donation: Independence Health System and AHN were recognized for organ, eye and tissue donation efforts, earning top statewide honors. School Clean Energy: Shapiro’s Solar for Schools Program highlighted new solar funding for districts like Steelton-Highspire to cut long-term energy costs.

Measles Watch: Pennsylvania kindergarten vaccination rates dipped to about 92% in 2024-25, with some schools in the 80s as measles cases climb—health officials warn that dropping below ~95% can let outbreaks spread. Food Safety: A multi-state alfalfa sprouts recall is drawing scrutiny after a federal distribution map shows only two states even though illnesses were reported in 15, including Pennsylvania—officials say the product may have reached more places. Blood Supply & Wellness: Miller-Keystone Blood Center reopened its renovated Reading Donor Center, aiming to boost donations for eastern PA and western NJ. Local Health Access: A Pittsburgh report highlights how high childcare costs and low supply are pushing families to improvise. Health Care Workforce: Penn State Health ER doctor Dr. Paul Sokoloski died after a plane crash involving a police helicopter while attempting to land at Carlisle Airport. Clinical Research: Savara shared new Phase 3 results for molgramostim in autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis at the ERS Congress.