Extreme Heat Response: Baltimore extended its Code Red Extreme Heat Alert through Sunday, urging residents to limit outdoor time, hydrate, and check on vulnerable neighbors as heat indexes top 105 and the National Weather Service warning continues. Energy Relief: Gov. Wes Moore expanded Maryland’s energy assistance for about 200,000 households, with benefits rising up to 32% and a simplified application process, plus added support for immigrant families not eligible for federal aid. Food Safety: A requesón listeria outbreak tied to Clover Hill Dairy has reached Illinois, Maryland, New York and Virginia, with most cases among Hispanic patients; Maryland suspended Clover Hill’s license and expanded recalls. Medicaid Legal Fight: Maryland AG Ford joined a multi-state lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s Medicaid work requirements for medically frail individuals, arguing unlawful implementation threatens coverage. Biotech Trial Milestone: Immunomic Therapeutics (HLB subsidiary) dosed the first patient in a Phase 1 trial of its Japanese cedar allergy vaccine candidate ITI-9001 in Rockville. Local Health Workforce: New projections warn a rheumatologist shortage will hit nonmetropolitan areas hardest, with far fewer specialists outside metro regions. Community Health & Wellness: Howard County launched a Financial Empowerment Center program to provide free counseling and improve financial stability for residents. Public Health in the News: A copperhead bite sent a 5-year-old to Children’s National Hospital via medical transport, highlighting the need to treat venomous bites as emergencies. Health Care Industry: Bora Pharmaceuticals completed its $122.5M acquisition of MacroGenics’ Rockville manufacturing operations, expanding U.S. biologics CDMO capacity. Conservation with Health Links: Talbot County preserved 153 acres of farmland through conservation easements that protect waterways feeding the Chesapeake Bay.