AGP Executive Report

Food Safety: U.S. health officials say the cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to imported iceberg lettuce has expanded to 15 states, with Nebraska now included; cases are still rising and officials urge people to follow public guidance while recalls remain in place. Public Health & Local Oversight: The Panhandle Public Health District Board of Health adopted a regulation and resolution to conduct public swimming pool inspections across its 12-county area after state law shifted permitting and routine oversight to local governments. Health Policy in Nebraska: The Legislature advanced multiple health-related measures, including LB966 to expand free school meals under a Hunger-Free Schools Act, LB722 to broaden how the Behavioral Health Services Fund can support people with substance use disorder, and LB1091 to set requirements for long-term care for special-needs Medicaid clients. Care Access & Coverage: Nebraska reported about 200 people lost Medicaid coverage on Aug. 1 under new work rules, with the state citing safeguards but not releasing underlying data. Brain Health Awareness: NFL Hall of Famer Roger Craig disclosed a vascular dementia diagnosis he believes may be linked to concussions from his playing career.

Food Safety Watch: The CDC says the Cyclospora outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce has expanded to 15 states, with Nebraska among those reporting cases; officials note the true number is likely higher than confirmed counts as investigations continue. Salmonella Alert: Walmart shoppers in 19 states, including Nebraska, are urged to check for Bettergoods Pistachio Nut Butter recalled after Florida testing found salmonella in a specific lot; no illnesses reported yet. Nebraska Health Policy: Nebraska reports about 200 people lost Medicaid coverage on Aug. 1 under new work requirements, with broad exemptions but concerns about people “falling through the cracks.” Care Workforce: Creighton nursing graduates highlighted a push to fill Nebraska’s mental health professional shortage, including an accelerated program funded through scholarship support. Community Health & Safety: Nebraska Game and Parks is investigating a fatal drowning of a 7-year-old boy at Lake McConaughy; a 5-year-old girl was hospitalized in stable condition. Elder Care: An Iowa nursing home administrator faces allegations of elder abuse and financial exploitation in civil filings.

Food Safety Alerts: The CDC says the “explosive diarrhea” parasite cyclosporiasis linked to iceberg lettuce has spread to 47 states, with nearly 23,000 confirmed and suspected cases and two deaths in Michigan; Nebraska is on the list as officials urge careful produce handling while investigations continue. Salmonella Watch: A separate salmonella outbreak tied to recalled Mexican jalapeños has sickened at least 345 people across 27 states, with 36 hospitalizations; Chipotle and Qdoba removed the ingredient, and FDA/CDC investigations remain active. Nebraska Health & Nutrition: Nebraska DHHS reported a 5.9% SNAP payment error rate for fiscal year 2025—one of the lowest in the country—after federal review. Local Public Health: Nebraska Game and Parks is investigating the drowning of a 7-year-old boy at Lake McConaughy; a 5-year-old girl was hospitalized in stable condition, and officials are reminding families about water safety. Community Health Support: Community Action Partnership of Western Nebraska marked its 60th anniversary, highlighting ongoing demand for mental health and dental services and inviting new board members.

Salmonella Alert: CDC says a jalapeño-linked salmonella outbreak has sickened at least 345 people across 27 states, with 36 hospitalizations and no deaths reported; FDA and CDC trace the peppers to jalapeños grown in Sinaloa, Mexico and distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors, prompting Chipotle and Qdoba to pull jalapeños from stores. Cyclospora in Nebraska: CDC added Nebraska to a multistate cyclospora outbreak tied to recalled iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico; Nebraska health officials report 92 cases linked to the national outbreak, with fast-rising counts in Douglas County and ongoing interviews to confirm exposure. Water Safety Check: Nebraska officials flagged high E. coli levels at Weigand swimming beach in the Lewis & Clark State Recreation Area, warning that conditions raise risk for swimmers—especially young children and older adults. Local Health Support: Central and Western Nebraska veterans can submit work to the 2026 Grand Island Veterans’ Creative Arts Competition, with entries displayed at the Nebraska State Fair. Senior Care Workforce: Avamere plans layoffs of about 129 employees in Washington County as it transitions facilities to other operators and refocuses on senior housing and home-based services.

Food Safety Alerts: Nebraska is now on the map for two major outbreaks: federal health officials say cyclospora linked to recalled Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce has reached 92 Nebraska cases (218 confirmed total in the state, with more possible), while salmonella tied to recalled Mexican jalapeños has sickened 345 people in 27 states and led Chipotle and Qdoba to pull jalapeños nationwide. Local Public Health: The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department says the outbreak timing (June 22–July 31) means Lancaster County could still see additional cases. Medicaid Fraud Push: Nebraska’s Attorney General coalition news highlights momentum for the STOP FRAUD in Medicaid Act, seeking to expand states’ ability to investigate Medicaid recipient fraud. Workforce/Health Care: Avamere plans to lay off about 129 staff as it transitions skilled nursing facilities to other operators. Community Notes: Lincoln police arrested a robbery suspect after an e-bike theft; deputies also handled a separate domestic disturbance involving a taser.

Food Safety Alert: The CDC says the Cyclospora outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms has expanded to 15 states, with Nebraska now included; officials report 6,358 illnesses, 278 hospitalizations, and two deaths in Michigan, and warn numbers may rise as cases are matched to the outbreak. Local Health Update: Nebraska’s reported Cyclospora cases tied to the national Taylor Farms source are now listed at 92, with Iowa at 83, as health departments continue tracking links. Another Outbreak—Salmonella: A separate Salmonella Javiana outbreak linked to jalapeños has reached 27 states; Chipotle and Qdoba removed jalapeños from menus, and Nebraska is among states reporting cases. Medicaid Policy: A judge declined to pause Medicaid work-exclusion documentation rules for people with serious chronic illness, setting up state mailings and implementation timelines. Nebraska Care Access: Tribes in Siouxland received $4.1 million to improve healthcare workforce and facilities, including housing support to help retain clinicians. Public Health Workforce: The Nebraska Air National Guard delivered free medical and dental care to more than 2,000 people during a mission in South Texas.

Cyclospora Outbreak Update: The CDC says the lettuce-linked cyclosporiasis outbreak now involves 15 states, adding Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire and North Carolina; investigators are still focused on iceberg lettuce tied to Taylor Farms, and health experts warn delays in testing and reporting can make the spread look bigger or smaller than it is. Local Health & Safety: Nebraska families are also being reminded to watch for symptoms of intestinal illness as cases rise nationwide, while the FDA issued a recall for Walmart pistachio nut butter in 19 states including Nebraska due to possible salmonella contamination. Nebraska Care Access: Molina Healthcare of Nebraska has briefly postponed its planned Sept. 1 DME Navigator rollout, telling providers to keep using current processes while it updates the timeline. Workforce & Community Health: Tribes in Siouxland received $4.1 million to improve healthcare workforce and facilities, including housing support to help recruitment and retention. Military Health Outreach: Nebraska Air National Guard members delivered free medical, dental, optometry, behavioral health, pharmacy and veterinary care to more than 2,000 people during a mission in South Texas. Policy Watch: Nebraska’s congressional delegation is pushing the Air Force to base KC-46 Pegasus tankers at Lincoln’s 155th Air Refueling Wing, citing aeromedical evacuation partnerships with UNMC.

Nebraska Health Access: North Omaha’s NOAH clinic is bringing back free Monday evening hours to help working patients fit screenings and blood tests into their schedules, especially as Medicaid changes leave more people searching for coverage. Cancer Breakthrough: A Bellevue woman with lupus reached clinical remission after CAR T-cell therapy at the Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center in Omaha, with doctors now looking at autoimmune disorders as a growing focus. Public Health Alert: The Cyclospora outbreak tied to food contamination concerns has expanded to 15 states, with Nebraska now included as case counts climb—prompting renewed attention to food safety and symptoms. Food Safety Recall: Walmart-linked bettergoods pistachio nut butter is recalled in one lot over possible salmonella contamination, raising risk for young children and people with weakened immune systems. Workplace Health & Safety: A construction worker was hospitalized after being trapped under an elevator at a Google data center in Council Bluffs and flown to Nebraska Medicine Trauma Center. Local Policy: Papillion is considering updates to its dangerous dogs ordinance, including shifting designation appeals to the Nebraska Humane Society and banning leg traps. Hospital Recognition: UCHealth hospitals earned top national and Colorado rankings from U.S. News & World Report, highlighting quality and patient experience. Blood Supply: LifeServe Blood Center is urging Nebraskans to donate as supplies remain tight beyond the usual summer dip.

Blood Supply Alert: LifeServe Blood Center says Nebraska-area demand is outpacing donations, with only a 1–2-day supply of type O-negative, O-positive and A-negative and 2–3 days for other types—organizers warn hospitals may have to delay care without more donors. Food Safety Recall: Walmart-exclusive bettergoods Pistachio Nut Butter (6.7 oz, lot LB028ACP04, UPC 194346207961, best by Jan. 28, 2027) is recalled in 19 states after Salmonella was found; officials urge people to throw it out or return it. Local Outbreak Update: Douglas County Health Department reports Cyclospora cases rising to 71 (from 45), with investigators saying local illness patterns strongly match a multistate outbreak tied to contaminated shredded iceberg lettuce. Medical Oversight: Nebraska AG disciplinary action revokes Lincoln orthopedic surgeon Dr. Steven Shannon’s license for at least two years and orders a $20,000 civil penalty after sexual harassment allegations. Care Access & Operations: Molina Healthcare of Nebraska briefly postpones its planned Sept. 1 DME Navigator rollout, citing a new timeline; providers are told to keep using current processes. Community Health Support: CHI Health Good Samaritan honors social worker Avery Dakan, MSW, with its 2026 Caring Kind Award for patient-centered care and compassion.

Nebraska Cancer Care Spotlight: Nebraska State Sen. Margo Juarez announced she has been diagnosed with breast cancer and said she’s optimistic about treatment while continuing her legislative work. Medicaid Oversight: Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway joined a multistate push urging Congress to pass the STOP FRAUD in Medicaid Act, which would expand states’ ability to investigate and prosecute Medicaid beneficiary and recipient fraud. Access to Specialty Surgery: A Creighton University study reported that ACA Medicaid expansion improved access to cancer surgery in urban areas, but its impact in the Midwest—especially rural communities—remains understudied. Local Health Policy & Coverage: Nebraska’s Medicaid work requirements are drawing renewed criticism as advocates warn paperwork burdens could kick people off coverage, including those with serious illnesses. Public Health & Safety: Omaha-area lead cleanup scrutiny found many yards still exceed lead thresholds, and a new lead level could trigger more cleanup. Food Safety: Walmart-linked pistachio nut butter recall in 19 states warns of possible salmonella contamination. Care Workforce: The Iowa Clinic named Sara Glaser as its new chief operating officer, overseeing day-to-day clinical operations and patient access.

Medicaid Fraud Push: Nebraska’s AG Catherine Hanaway joined a coalition urging Congress to pass the “STOP FRAUD in Medicaid Act,” aiming to let states investigate and prosecute Medicaid beneficiary fraud, not just provider fraud. Drug Pricing Accountability: Nebraska also sits in the wider spotlight as attorneys general announce a $400 million settlement in principle with Sandoz over alleged generic drug price-fixing, with reforms promised. Medicaid Work Requirements Backlash: Nebraska advocates warn that Medicaid work reporting rules are causing confusion and coverage losses, with critics saying exemptions are too hard to prove for people with serious illness. Pediatric Emergency Care Gap: A new study finds most EDs see very few critically ill children and only a small share of cases at low-volume centers may be safely diverted to higher-volume pediatric facilities. Public Health & Food Safety: Local health coverage includes cyclosporosis cases reported in Hastings, while national reporting continues to track the outbreak and related claims online. Community Health Access: Lincoln’s Lead Safe Lincoln program expands to more neighborhoods, offering no-cost lead service line replacements to protect public health.

Blood Supply Alert: LifeServe Blood Center says donations are down beyond the usual summer dip, leaving only a 1–2 day supply for key types like O-negative, O-positive and A-negative, and urging Nebraskans and nearby donors to book appointments now to avoid treatment delays. Public Health & Policy: A national report on HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s confirmation highlights concerns that cuts to the public health safety net and vaccine misinformation have helped drive a surge in outbreaks, with experts pointing to measles and other diseases rebounding. Wildfire Health Impact: Wildfires near Spokane, Washington have forced evacuations of about 60,000 people and destroyed at least 600 homes and structures, including precautionary evacuation of VA hospital patients—raising urgent air-quality and emergency-care concerns for the region. Nebraska Health Research: The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is among NSF’s new Materials Research Science and Engineering Centers, funded with $108 million to support next-gen medical imaging and drug-delivery research. Local Safety: A Merrick County crash sent one person life-flighted to an Omaha trauma center; alcohol is suspected in the other driver’s actions.

Nebraska Back-to-School Health: Doctors are urging families to use required kindergarten and seventh-grade physicals to catch vision, hearing, dental, nutrition, sleep, and developmental issues early—plus mental health needs, as Nebraska youth are more likely to need care than peers nationwide. Public Health Watch: A string of outbreaks is testing the U.S. public health system amid funding cuts and vaccine resistance, while Ebola concerns grow as a fast-moving outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo spreads with limited tools for the specific virus type. Dog Dental Warning: Nebraska vets say persistent bad breath in dogs should be evaluated for dental disease and sometimes internal problems like diabetes, kidney, or liver issues. Blood Supply Alert: LifeServe and the Red Cross are sounding alarms about dangerously low blood donations, especially during summer demand. Safety on the Ground: A Lincoln weekend wrap-up included an accidental shooting outside Scheels and a fatal grain bin incident near Ashton. Policy & Care Access: Coverage highlights how SNAP cuts and Medicaid work requirements are reshaping eligibility and coverage, with health advocates warning of real impacts on vulnerable families.

Medicaid & Access in Nebraska: Health advocates say Nebraska’s “rushed” rollout of new Medicaid work requirements is creating barriers for patients, including long waits for help and unanswered questions as enforcement ramps up. Public Health & Heat: A dangerous Western heat dome is pushing tens of millions under heat alerts, raising major public health risks and extreme fire danger. Food Assistance: SNAP benefit schedules for August 2026 were released, with states using different timing rules for EBT payments. Mental Health: A new look at depression rates highlights how symptoms have risen in recent years and that many people still don’t get treatment. Blood Supply: LifeServe and the Red Cross are urging blood donations as summer demand and incidents can quickly drain hospital supplies. Local Wellness: Nebraska doctors encourage back-to-school physicals to catch vision, hearing, dental, nutrition, sleep, and mental health issues early. Community Health Education: Beyond Vision LNK is promoting more eye health education in Nebraska K–12 schools, focusing on problems that standard screenings can miss. Safety & Care: A Bennington-area sports medicine training brought together EMS, athletic trainers, and coaches to improve emergency response for serious injuries on the field. Health Policy & Rights: Anti-trans ballot measures are set for November in multiple states, including Nebraska, as debates over youth care and sports eligibility intensify.

Rural Health Funding in Nebraska: Nebraska has awarded nearly $100 million of its first-year Rural Health Transformation Program allotment, with DHHS saying it’s on track and rolling out a public dashboard to show where money is going. Medicaid Work Rules Pushback: Health advocates warn Nebraska’s “rushed” Medicaid work requirements are creating delays and confusion for enrollees, with many questions still unanswered as enforcement ramps up. Blood Supply Alert: The American Red Cross and LifeServe are urging donations as summer demand and low turnout leave Nebraska and the region short on blood—especially critical for hospitals during accidents and cancer care. Back-to-School Checkups: Nebraska doctors say required physicals for kindergarten and seventh grade are a chance to catch vision, dental, nutrition, sleep, and mental health issues early. Public Health Under Strain: A national report links a string of outbreaks to funding cuts and vaccine resistance, raising concerns about the resilience of the U.S. public health system. Heat Dome Health Risks: A dangerous Western heat dome is driving major/extreme heat alerts, with cooling centers open and public health officials warning about heat exposure. Eye Health Education: Beyond Vision LNK is pushing for more functional vision education in Nebraska schools, arguing standard screenings can miss problems that affect learning.

Medicaid Access in Focus: Nebraska health advocates are warning that the state’s “rushed” rollout of federal Medicaid work requirements is creating delays and confusion, with some residents waiting up to 90 minutes for help and questions still unanswered as enforcement ramps up. Rural Health Funding: Nebraska has awarded nearly $100 million of its first-year Rural Health Transformation Program funds and launched a public dashboard to track where money is going across the state. Public Health Alerts: DHHS issued a Harmful Algal Bloom health alert for Maskenthine Reservoir in Stanton County, closing swimming beaches and urging residents to avoid exposure. Care Innovation: UNL researchers are developing a wearable “sticker” that tracks walking patterns to help detect disease earlier, with UNMC clinicians linking gait changes to medical issues. Vision Education: Beyond Vision LNK is pushing for more eye health education in Nebraska K–12 schools, highlighting functional vision problems that can slip past standard screenings. Blood Supply: The American Red Cross is warning of a nationwide and Nebraska blood shortage, urging donors to help refill critical supplies. Mental Health Access for Veterans: A new partnership connects Omaha-area veterans to more affordable mental health care through referrals and reduced-cost services. Health & Wellness Spotlight: Former Packers running back Ahman Green shared his early-onset Parkinson’s diagnosis, underscoring the importance of staying active and managing health proactively.