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Health Officer Newsletter - August 2026

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MONTHLY NEWSLETTER FOR ORANGE COUNTY CLINICIANS AUGUST 14, 20 26

R EG IN A CH IN SIO -K W ON G , D O

Back to School

COUNTY HEAL TH O FF ICER

Dear Orange County Clinicians, As we move into mid-August, families throughout our communities are settling back into the familiar rhythm of early mornings, busy commutes, and the excitement of a new school year. With classrooms filling up again, many parents are bracing for the seasonal rise in childhood illnesses—and unfortunately, we are already hearing from primary care and urgent care partners that COVID-19 cases are increasing.

Last month, we highlighted the importance of routine vaccinations. Given the growing questions arising from the recent executive order, we are continuing to provide clear, evidence-based vaccine resources in this newsletter to support frontline clinicians who are facing added pressure and confusion from patients seeking guidance. The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) released a joint statement to reinforce that the WCHA's position on childhood vaccine guidance has not changed. The WCHA endorsed the 2026 Recommended Child and Adolescent Schedule and the 2026 Maternal Immunization Schedule issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Back-to-school season also brings additional concerns: safe transportation during busy drop-off and pick-up periods, and ensuring children stay safe while biking, scootering, or using e-bikes and e-scooters. Coupled with a constant stream of both helpful information and misinformation circulating across social media, parents are navigating a challenging landscape as they try to protect their families from preventable illness and injury.

In this newsletter you can find: Press Releases/News Highlights – pg. 2 Public Health Communicable Disease Updates - pg. 4 Injury Prevention – pg. 7 Preparedness – pg. 8

Community Collaborative Updates – pg. 9

August offers several opportunities to reinforce essential public health messages. In addition to National Vaccination Month, August is National Breastfeeding Month, National Community Health Center Awareness Month, Valley Fever Awareness Month, and National Emergency Management Awareness Month—each spotlighting key aspects of family and community wellbeing. As we approach September’s National Preparedness Month, we can continue supporting families in planning ahead for emergencies, large or small.

Observance Topics – pg. 12

With respiratory viruses circulating, ongoing concerns about West Nile virus, persistent Valley Fever risks, and an uptick in COVID-19 activity, maintaining routine preventive care remains critical. Your guidance continues to be one of the most trusted sources of truth for families. Whether you’re encouraging timely vaccinations, supporting breastfeeding, directing families to community health center resources, or reinforcing emergency preparedness, your role in prevention and education is invaluable.

Training & Webinar Opportunities – pg. 17

Safety Alerts/Recalls/ Outbreaks/Foodborne Illnesses – pg. 15

Thank you for your continued leadership, resilience, and service to Orange County. Your work profoundly strengthens the health and safety of our community.

With appreciation, Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong (CK)

O C HE A L T H CA R E A G E N C Y | 1


PRESS RELEASES/NEWS HIGHLIGHTS National/Federal Updates • FDA issued an emergency use authorization for drug to prevent New World screwworm in multiple species, including sheep, cattle, goats, and swine.

• HHS announced Head Start reforms to expand access and reduce administrative burden. • HHS announced that HRSA health centers delivered record-breaking care to more than 32.7 million patients in 2025. • ASTHO, Johns Hopkins University, and CSTE launched the US Disease Tracker, a weeklyupdated website that provides standardized, open-access data on vaccine-preventable diseases. It will initially track measles, invasive meningococcal disease, and pe

• Notable publications • CDC MMWR August 13, 2026 • Notes from the Field: Potential Infant HIV Exposure from Breast Milk received through Social Media - the report notes that while no transmission was identified, the investigation highlighted the importance of public education on the risks of informal breast milk sharing and use of accredited milk banks • Southward Expansion of Ixodes scapularis (Blacklegged) Tick PathogensSurveillance in Biltmore Forest, NC found 40% of Adult blacklegged ticks tested positive for Borrelia burgdorferi - the bacteria that causes lyme disease, underscoring the need for increased clinical vigilance, public prevention education, and strengthened tick/pathogen monitoring. • NEJM Evidence August 12, 2026- The Evidence report by CDPH noted 592 silicosis cases among California engineered stone workers (2019–Jun 2026), including 65 lung transplants and 31 deaths, with Cal/OSHA finding widespread noncompliance and noting the true burden is likely higher due to inconsistent screening and frequent misdiagnosis.

State Updates • With California State Budget Plan, while the federal funding for full-scope Medicaid for certain adult immigrant groups end starting October 1, 2026, under California’s current state budget plan, affected individuals will transition to state-funded full-scope MediCal coverage and will not immediately lose their comprehensive health benefits. • CDPH released AFL 26-27 reminding health care facilities to keep individuals safe during extremely hot weather.

• Governor Newsom announced that retailers in California are nearly 98% compliant with the state’s crackdown on illegal kratom products, with more than 6,700 kratom and 7OH products removed from store shelves. • California and 17 other states filed a legal brief in support of the Toxic Substances Control Act risk management rule that would phase out all uses of trichloroethylene.

• CalHHS released a statement on the federal government’s new Public Charge Rule. • Division of Workers’ Compensation updated the Official Medical Fee Schedule for Hospital Outpatient Departments and Ambulatory Surgical Centers. OC HEALTH CARE AGENCY | 2


PUBLIC HEALTH COMMUNICABLE DISEASE UPDATES Measles Cases Hit 22-Year High in Americas as PAHO Urges Urgent Vaccination Measles activity in the Americas has reached its highest level in 22 years, with 47,459 confirmed cases and 44 deaths reported as of July 18, 2026—more than triple the total seen in 2025. Guatemala, Mexico, the United States, and Peru account for 95% of this year’s cases, with Guatemala experiencing the largest outbreak (30,371 cases and 26 deaths), followed by Mexico (12,255 cases and 17 deaths), the United States (2,260 cases), and Peru (1,277 cases). Although some outbreaks show early signs of slowing, transmission remains active across the region. PAHO continues to classify the overall risk as very high due to low vaccination coverage, widening immunity gaps, and increased travel. Sources: Measles Cases Hit 22-Year High in Americas as PAHO Urges Urgent Vaccination - fundsforNGOs News; measles-sitrep8-31july-2026.pdf

Measles in the US • • • • •

US Total for 2026 is 2,465 Most new cases are coming from Pennsylvania CDC is tracking 38 outbreaks There are 54 reported cases in California There are no current outbreaks in California

Measles in Orange County • 2 pediatric cases of measles associated with international travel have been reported this summer • A total of 5 measles cases have been reported in 2026 among Orange County residents to date

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PUBLIC HEALTH COMMUNICABLE DISEASE UPDATES The CDC created a Be Ready for Measles toolkit, which includes the following modeling visualization showing that intervention to control measles works!

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PUBLIC HEALTH COMMUNICABLE DISEASE UPDATES West Nile Virus Update • Orange County reported the first human case of WNV in 2026. • CD HEALTH ALERT: First West Nile Virus Human Case of the 2026 Season Reported

Respiratory Virus Update • Across California, COVID-19 activity is low but slowly increasing. • The 2026-2027 COVID-19 vaccine is estimated to be available this fall. • The 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccines are expected to provide protection - however supplies are limited as pharmacies await the updated formulation. • The updated monovalent vaccine will target the JN.1-lineage XFG variant.

COVID-19 test positivity increasing in Orange County

As of 8/8/2 6

• The FDA approved Moderna’s mRNA-based vaccine against seasonal influenza for people 50 and older. FDA approves Moderna flu shot made with mRNA: NPR Ebola Update • There are over 4,500 cases and 2,000 deaths in the current BVD outbreak in the DRC Ebola Outbreak: Current Situation | Ebola | CDC. • To date, there have been no cases of Ebola disease confirmed in the US. • Uganda’s last reported case was in June 21, and there’s been no community spread there. It is no longer considered an area of concern. • US citizens are restricted from entering the US if they’ve been anywhere in the DRC in the past 21 days; other travel restrictions and screening activities remain. Cyclosporiasis Update • Several concurrent outbreaks are occurring throughout the US. • Largest outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce imported from central Mexico. • Over 20,000 estimated cases; 517 hospitalizations and 2 deaths. • Contaminated iceberg lettuce was not distributed to California. • Orange County currently has 40 cases, 25 associated with international travel. • Resources: Surveillance of Cyclosporiasis | Cyclosporiasis | CDC OC HEALTH CARE AGENCY | 5


INJURY PREVENTION Stingrays at the Shore: An Increasing Summer Injury Risk Stingray injuries are surging along Orange County beaches this year. Bolsa Chica and Huntington State Beaches have reported more than 3,100 incidents so far in 2026—twice the number reported during all of 2025. One contributing factor may be unusually warm coastal waters, with ocean temperatures remaining consistently in the 60s and creating favorable conditions for stingrays in shallow water.

Prevention: Do the Stingray Shuffle Stingrays are generally not aggressive. Most injuries occur when someone accidentally steps on a ray resting or buried in shallow sand. The best prevention is simple: shuffle, don’t step. Sliding your feet along the ocean floor alerts nearby stingrays and gives them an opportunity to move away.

If a Sting Occurs Stingray injuries cause a puncture or laceration combined with envenomation and can produce significant pain. • •

• • •

Get safely out of the water and control bleeding with direct pressure. Immerse the affected area in hot—but not scalding—water for 30–90 minutes or until pain improves. Stingray venom is heat-labile. Thoroughly clean and irrigate the wound and assess for a retained barb or foreign material. Check tetanus status and monitor for infection, increasing swelling, persistent pain, or delayed healing. Seek urgent medical evaluation for deep wounds, uncontrolled bleeding, systemic symptoms, or injuries involving the chest, abdomen, or neck.

Most stingray injuries heal well, but retained fragments, infection, tissue necrosis, and delayed wound healing can occur. The message for patients heading to the beach is straightforward: enjoy the water, pay attention to lifeguard advisories, and remember the stingray shuffle.

Special thanks to Huntington Beach Marine Safety Battalion Chief Doug Leach for bringing this timely injury prevention issue to our attention during a recent visit - and for the work our Marine Safey teams do every day to keep our beaches and communities safe. References: LAist/AP. Stingray lashings up as marine heat wave off Southern California draws more to shore. August 13, 2026. Charnigo A, et al. Stingray Sting. StatPearls. Raghunandan T, Majid R, Ferguson R, et al. Stingray envenomation in the foot & its effects on wound healing: A case report. Foot OC HEALTH CARE AGENCY | 6 & Ankle Surgery: Techniques, Reports & Cases. 2025;5.


PREPAREDNESS September is National Preparedness Month It’s a great opportunity for residents, visitors, and clinicians to strengthen preparedness by knowing what to do in an emergency and staying connected to official communication channels. Have you signed up for Alert OC? If not, now's a good time to do so and encourage others in the community to do the same. Community members can sign up for AlertOC to receive real-time emergency notifications and visit ReadyOC for practical readiness tips, planning tools, and hazard-specific guidance.

Together, informed communities and committed emergency professionals help ensure Orange County is ready for whatever comes next.

California Earthquake Alerts - MyShake App OC HEALTH CARE AGENCY | 7


COMMUNITY COLLABORATIVE UPDATES Important Update: Medi-Cal Dental Benefit Changes Delayed to July 1, 2027 The Medi-Cal Dental benefit changes for certain adult members, previously expected to take effect on July 1, 2026, have been delayed to July 1, 2027. This means these members will continue to receive full dental benefits until June 30, 2027. Starting on July 1, 2027, Medi-Cal will stop covering dental services for some adult members, except for emergencies based on immigration status. This affects members aged 19 and older who do not qualify for federal full-scope Medi-Cal.

Members will keep full-scope Medi-Cal with dental benefits regardless of their immigration status if: • Pregnant or within one year postpartum • Under age 19 • Under age 26 and were in foster care on their 18th birthday If members are enrolled in a Dental Managed Care Plan, they will: • Stay enrolled if they are under 19 • Move to Medi-Cal Dental (fee-for-service) if they are: • Pregnant or one-year postpartum • A foster youth/former foster youth under age 26 If members do not qualify for full-scope Medi-Cal, emergency dental services still include: • Severe tooth pain • Infections • Tooth extractions

Because this is an important update, we are asking partners and providers to share this information with community members as soon as possible. It is critical that members understand they have more time to access their benefits and make use of available dental services. Key message to share with members: You now have 12 more months to use your Medi-Cal dental benefits before changes take effect on July 1, 2027. Use this extra time to schedule a dental visit to maintain your oral health. For more information, visit Smile, California: https://smilecalifornia.org/benefitchanges/

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COMMUNITY COLLABORATIVE UPDATES Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Obstetric Hemorrhage and Pregnancy-Related Deaths The California Department of Public Health has released two factsheets featuring key findings and recommendations to prevent pregnancy-related deaths due to obstetric hemorrhage. Obstetric hemorrhage is one of the leading causes of pregnancy-related death in California, following cardiovascular disease and COVID-19 in 2021-2023. A subcommittee of the California Pregnancy-Associated Review Committee (CA-PARC) conducted in-depth reviews of hemorrhage deaths in California in 2014-2018 and found that:

• Top causes of obstetric hemorrhage include placenta accreta spectrum, uterine atony, intraabdominal bleeding and ruptured ectopic pregnancy. • 63% of hemorrhage deaths were deemed preventable, with delays in recognition and response among the most common contributing factors. Specific recommendations were developed for clinicians, facilities and healthcare systems, and agencies, organizations and institutions:

• Recommendations for Agencies, Organizations, and Institutions • Recommendations for Clinicians, Facilities, and Healthcare Systems Key recommendations include: • Encourage sexual and reproductive health education in schools, clinics, and other community settings. • Raise awareness via an educational media campaign about menstrual cycles and warning signs of ectopic pregnancy among individuals who can get pregnant. • Raise awareness via educational campaigns about the importance of having good iron stores prior to and during pregnancy. • Screen all pregnant patients for iron deficiency anemia and treat appropriately. • Educate families to not delay calling 911 or going to the Emergency Department in emergent situations for pregnant or postpartum individuals. Clinicians caring for pregnant or postpartum birthing people should review the above factsheets, identify actions your organization can implement or adapt, and help disseminate this information with relevant partners. Additional Resources, Toolkits & Campaigns: • CDC HEAR HER Campaign: A resource for women who are pregnant to raise awareness of urgent maternal warning signs during and after pregnancy. • Identifying and Managing Obstetric Emergencies in Non-obstetric Settings: Developed by The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). • Improving Health Care Response to Obstetric Hemorrhage Toolkit, Version 3.0: A toolkit for clinicians and healthcare facilities outlining best practices to manage obstetric hemorrhage using the 4-R Framework: Readiness, Recognition & Prevention, Response, and Reporting/Systems Learning. OC HEALTH CARE AGENCY | 9


COMMUNITY COLLABORATIVE UPDATES Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Maternal mental health trends in California The University of California San Francisco Center for Health Equity recently released a new data brief (Maternal Mental Health Trends in California) highlighting trends in depression and anxiety symptoms during and after pregnancy in California, using data from the 2020-2024 Maternal and Infant Health Assessment (MIHA) survey. Since 2020, maternal depression and anxiety have increased, from 33% to 37%. Higher rates are seen in younger individuals (15-24), American Indian and Black birthing people, first-time parents and those with lower income. Stressors such as housing instability, food insecurity, job loss and intimate partner violence are strongly linked to worse mental health. Fewer than half of those with symptoms receive care, with lower access among Medi-Cal participants, immigrants, and Asian and Latino populations. A previous data brief (Maternal Mental Health Screening in California) reported that only two-thirds of California women are screened for depression or anxiety symptoms both during and after pregnancy. For local resources and screening tools, see the Orange County Perinatal and Infant Mental Health and Substance Use Provider Toolkit. Additional resources: • National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Free confidential, and here to help, 24/7. Call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262); Chat • OC HCA Behavioral Health Services: OC Links, available 24/7, 855-625-4657 • Postpartum Support International: HelpLine English | Spanish. Call (800) 9444PPD (4773) • Every Parent OC: Maternal Mental Health: Moms Need Support Too • Every Parent OC: Moms: You’re NOT Alone – Make Time for Your Mental Health and Self-Care • OC Navigator: Resources for Pregnancy and Postpartum Support • HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Depression and Anxiety During Pregnancy and After Birth English | Spanish • HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): How Taking Care of Yourself Makes You a Better Mom English | Spanish • California Department of Public Health: Maternal Mental Health

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Studies, Reports and Publications HCA Press Releases/Health Advisories Stay Alert for Acute Flaccid Myelitis in Late Summer and Early Fall – August 7, 2026 The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) requests healthcare providers and local health departments to be vigilant for acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), which typically presents with sudden limb weakness, usually in children, and can lead to permanent paralysis. First West Nile Virus Human Case of 2026 Season Report – August 6, 2026 A resident of Anaheim tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV), becoming the first human WNV infection in Orange County this year.

Measles Case Confirmed in Orange County – August 3, 2026 The OC Health Care Agency (HCA) received confirmation of a measles case in a toddler who had history of international travel. The HCA is notifying individuals who were exposed to the person in healthcare and other settings.

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OBSERVANCE TOPICS National Breastfeeding Awareness Month In last month’s newsletter, we reviewed how clinicians can promote breastfeeding in the outpatient setting. A recently released report from the California Department of Public Health summarizes data on the presence of hospital practices supportive of breastfeeding, which include: • skin-to-skin contact • early initiation of breastfeeding • rooming-in • receiving lactation support • exclusive breastmilk feeding • NOT receiving formula samples • receiving a contact for post-discharge support. In Orange County, only 24.5% of the birthing people surveyed experienced all 7 of these supportive practices during their birth hospital admission. Overall, any and exclusive breastfeeding rates at three months were higher among birthing people who experienced more supportive hospital practices, with only 67% of birthing people who experienced 3 -4 of these practices doing any breastfeeding at 3 months, compared with 90.5% in those who experienced all 7 practices. These data emphasize the need for targeted interventions to address gaps in breastfeeding support in the hospital, with continued support after discharge. See Hospital Practices and Breastfeeding for more information.

August is National Emergency Management Awareness Month Over the past few years, our county has experienced a wide range of incidents that required significant coordination across our cities, organizations, and partner agencies. Effective emergency response doesn’t happen on its own—it takes extensive planning, collaboration, and dedication. We are fortunate to have committed emergency managers at both the city and county levels who work tirelessly behind the scenes to prepare for and respond to emerging situations. Many organizations have also come together during critical moments to support a strong, unified response. Thank you to EVERYONE who has played a role in keeping our county safe—whether through daily operational support or major incident response. Your commitment, expertise, and teamwork are truly appreciated.

National Immunization Awareness Month: Infants and Young Children This month, we highlights National Immunization Awareness Month with a focus on infants and young children. With the rising measles cases in the US, it's important to continue to raise awareness and protect infants and young children. • Use proven communication strategies, like the AIMS method (Announce, Inquire, Mirror, and Secure), to guide conversations and address parents’ immunization questions with empathy and clarity. • Make trusted immunization information accessible for parents, such as the Immunization Timing Block Schedule (Spanish), Vaccine Safety Information (Spanish), and AAP Recommended Immunization Schedule • Stay informed and connected by joining CDPH’s immunization webinars and trainings. OC HEALTH CARE AGENCY | 12


OBSERVANCE TOPICS August is Valley Fever Awareness Month August is Valley Fever Awareness Month, reminding Orange County clinicians to stay alert as statewide cases rise and dust exposures persist. Infection occurs when airborne Coccidioides spores from disturbed soil are inhaled; it is not spread person-to-person. Risk is highest in endemic areas of central and southern California and the Southwest, especially for people whose work or activities disrupt soil. Who Is at Risk? • Outdoor workers (construction, agriculture, firefighting, military) • Outdoor recreational activity (ATV riders, dirt bikers, hikers) • Individuals exposed to dust from wildfires or high-wind events Certain groups—those of African American or Filipino ancestry and immunocompromised individuals—are at higher risk for severe disease. Firefighters and other field personnel should be evaluated for cocci if symptoms develop after wildfire deployment. Clinical Presentation Symptoms typically appear 1–4 weeks after exposure and often resemble community-acquired pneumonia: fatigue, fever, cough, chest pain, dyspnea, rash, headache, arthralgias, and night sweats. Most infections are mild or asymptomatic, though some progress to chronic pulmonary or disseminated disease.

California Trend Statewide cases continue to rise due to climate patterns, population growth in endemic regions, and improved diagnostic recognition—reinforcing the need for sustained clinical vigilance. Orange County has reported 250+ cases annually for the last six years. In 2026, 211 cases have been reported to date, compared to 156 at this time in 2025. Clinical Resources for Valley Fever • CDPH Valley Fever (Public): Valley Fever is in California • CDPH Valley Fever – Health Professionals: Includes CDC clinical overview, testing algorithm, 2024 advisory, and links to grand rounds and COCA webinar with CE: Valley Fever Information for Health Professionals • Occupational Health Branch (Worker-specific): Preventing Workrelated Valley Fever# • CDPH Valley Fever Dashboard – image from webpage - Valley Fever Case Counts in California

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OBSERVANCE TOPICS September 13-19, 2026, is Folic Acid Awareness Week Folate, including folic acid, is an essential vitamin in the development of the neural tube, which later develops into the spine and brain. Studies have shown that up to 70% of all neural tube birth defects can be prevented when people capable of becoming pregnant consume 400 micrograms of folic acid prior to conception. In Orange County, a survey found an estimated 43% of people with a recent live birth, took a multivitamin, prenatal vitamin, or folic acid vitamin every day for the week during the month before pregnancy. Pre-pregnancy daily folic acid use was higher with increasing age, education, and household income, and in people with private insurance vs Medi-Cal. Pre-pregnancy daily folic acid use was lowest in Hispanic birthing people (26.5%) and highest among Asian/Pacific Islanders (61.1%).

Folate can be found naturally in certain foods and also in fortified foods in supplements. • Naturally occurring: • Vegetables (such as asparagus, Brussel sprouts, dark green leafy vegetables [e.g., spinach, mustard greens]) • Fruit juices, especially oranges and orange juice • Beef liver • Nuts (such as walnuts) • Beans and peas (such as kidney beans and black-eyed peas)

• Fortified foods: • Enriched breads, flours, pastas, rice and cornmeal • Fortified corn masa flour* (used to make corn tortillas and tamales) • Fortified breakfast cereals *Starting January 1, 2026, per California Assembly Bill 1830, corn masa flour manufactured, sold, delivered, held, offered for sale, or used as an ingredient in a food product must contain 0.7 mg of folic acid per pound of corn masa flour. • Dietary supplements (e.g., multivitamins, prenatal vitamins, folic acid vitamins)

All people capable of becoming pregnant should consume 400 mcg of folic acid daily. For more information: • California Department of Public Health: Folic Acid • Food and Drug Administration: Folate and Folic Acid on the Nutrition and Supplement Facts Labels | FDA

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SAFETY ALERTS/RECALLS/OUTBREAKS/ FOODBOURNE ILLNESS Salmonella - Over the last 2 months several food products have been recalled for ongoing salmonella investigations - including jalapenos, eggs, and green powders ("Food to Live") Recalls related to Salmonella

1. Jalapeno Details: A salmonella outbreak linked to fresh jalapenos grown in Sinaloa, Mexico, has sickened 345 people across twenty-seven states. 36 people have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported. The jalapenos were distributed to restaurants and wholesalers. The affected jalapenos were NOT distributed in California. Chipotle Mexican Grill and QDOBA stopped serving the affected jalapenos. The CDC and FDA have determined that consumers are not currently at ongoing risk from these establishments related to this outbreak. Taylor Fresh Foods has recalled jalapeno peppers, including whole peppers, and products that peppers were used in, such as burritos, guacamole and salsa.

For more information regarding Salmonella and this outbreak: CDC: Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Jalapeños | Salmonella Infection | CDC CDPH: Salmonellosis FDA: Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella: Jalapeño (August 2026) | FDA

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SAFETY ALERTS/RECALLS/OUTBREAKS/ FOODBOURNE ILLNESS 2. Midwest Poultry Services Eggs • •

•

• • • • • •

• •

Reason for Recall: Ongoing Salmonella Investigation As of July 24, the outbreak has resulted in 98 confirmed cases across 17 states, with 36% requiring hospitalizations and 0 deaths Recalled Product: Eggs - various sizes - Midwest poultry Services, LP Eggs with best by dates between July 20, 2026 and August 17,2026 Restaurants/Retails: Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas Retailers: Kroger stores - Texas Louisiana Brookshire Grocery - Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana Other smaller retail in above mentioned states and Mississippi, New Mexico Consumers, restaurants, and retailers who purchased or received recalled eggs should carefully clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers the product may have touched. Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces with hot, soapy water before and after handling egg containing foods Those who develop symptoms of salmonella should contact their health care provider for care FDA - Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella Eggs - July 2026

3. Green Powders - Lexunder Inc (Food to Live) August 7, 2026 • Recalled Product: Food to Live branded products including- Multiple green powder products Supergreens powder mix, moringa leaf powder, kale powder • Reason for Recall: Initiated after sample from Supergreen mix lot SO-77820 tested positive for Salmonella • Consumers who have the product are advised to not eat them. Products listed on recall should be disposed or returned. Consumers with questions can contact Lexunder Inc at (718) 717-1029 or recall@foodtolive.com • FDA Lexunder Inc Recalls Live Brand Green Powder Products due to Possible Health Risk

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TRAINING & WEBINAR OPPORTUNITIES General Webinars August 20 at 12:15 pm: CMA—Advancing Clinical Best Practices for Substance Use Disorder Treatments August 25 at 11:00 am: National Foundation for Infectious Diseases—Back to School: Childhood and Adolescent Immunization August 27 at 9:00 am: Climate Mental Health Network—Supporting Well-Being in Extreme Weather

August 27 at 6:30 pm: AAP- OC Chapter: Drowning Prevention Strategies for Children with ASD - Webinar featuring practical, evidence-based strategies to help keep children safe in and around the water. This session also includes a special presentation from the Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC) on adaptive swim lessons, adaptive recreation, and how families can access these valuable services. September 2 at 10:00 am: NACCHO—Understanding Assisted Living: Building Effective Partnerships with Local Health Departments to Support Infection Prevention and Control September 2 at 1:00 pm: ASTHO—Public Health Collaboration in Response to a Botulism Outbreak September 24 at 3:00 pm: AltaMed PACE - Santa Ana Coalition of Orange County Community Health Centers Coffee Connections: Shaping the Future of Aging & Cognitive Health: Aligning Care, Community, and Partnerships In Person Conferences October 16-18, 2026: AAP- 42nd Annual Current Advances in Pediatrics Conference - Irvine Marriott

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From protecting community health to supporting individuals and families every day, our teams at the OC Health Care Agency (HCA) work behind the scenes and on the front lines to make Orange County healthier and stronger. Learn more from HCA Director Veronica Kelley, DSW, LCSW in this video: About the OC Health Care Agency.

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HEALTHY OC NEWSLETTER Quality health is critical for all OC residents. Our Healthy OC newsletter is designed to offer direct, transparent communication to the entire county, helping our community live longer, healthier lives. Orange County residents can subscribe by clicking here: Healthy OC newsletter. Click on any of the links below to see content and resources. Our current edition is the Back to School Special.

Back to School Tips Screen Time Immunization Awareness E-bike Safety Car Safety Seats Check Out that Smile Kids' Health and Safety Positive Parenting Program July 2026

Heat Stroke is No Joke Beach Water and Swimming Safety Clinical Skills Training Immunization Awareness Month West Nile Virus Season About Communicable Disease Control Behavioral Health Support

June 2026

About the OC Health Care Agency State of Health in Orange County Food Truck Licensing Mosquitoes, Ticks and Rodents Postpartum Depression Healthy Brain OC Navigator – Children's Resources

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Health Officer Newsletter - August 2026 by County of Orange Health Care Agency - Issuu