, pursuant to LSA-R.S. 42:19(A), that the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners (the "Board"), within the Louisiana Department of Health, State of Louisiana, shall convene a Regular Call meeting of the Medical Psychology Advisory Committee starting at 1:00 P.M, Friday, March 20, 2026, at the offices of the Board, 630 Camp Street, New Orleans, Louisiana. Pursuant to La. R.S. 42:17.3 and Act 408 of the 2022 Regular Session, the advisory committee will participate via live-streaming video and teleconference for the public session and via non-streaming video and teleconference during the executive session.

. Click the appropriate committee’s name then “Live Stream Here” next to the date. The YouTube link will be posted immediately prior to the meeting.  Members of the public may view the video meeting at the anchor location at 630 Camp Street, New Orleans, Louisiana, or remotely.

Individuals who wish to make a public comment before or during the meeting, may do so by

. Public comments comprised of videos and/or audio content must be limited to no more than 3 minutes length and the email size must be less than 10 megabytes.

Both requirements must be met, or the content will be refused by our system. All comments received prior to or during the meeting will be identified and acknowledged during the meeting and maintained in the meeting 

Members of the public may give verbal comment on any agenda item when the matter comes up for discussion.

“ZOOM LINK REQUEST” to request a link to the videoconference, identifying themselves by name and relevant affiliation, if any, and the agenda item about which they wish to make verbal comment. 

The committee will make reasonable efforts to accommodate requests made while the meeting is in progress but cannot guarantee

to limit or prohibit participation in order to maintain orderly conduct of the meeting in accordance with La. R.S. 

42:17(C).  Members of the public who choose to view the video meeting at the anchor location may give verbal comments by notifying the presiding officer at the anchor location.

. Click the appropriate committee’s name then “AGENDA” next to the date.

Regular Meeting held and noticed pursuant to La.Rev.Stat.§42:17A(1), (2), (4), (5) and(10), R.S. 42:17.3and Act 408 of the 2022 Regular Session. Further, agenda items may be taken out of order and/or in executive session pursuant to R.S 42:17A. La. R.S. 42:17A states “A public body may hold an executive session pursuant to La. R.S. 42:16 for one or more of the following reasons: (1) Discussion of the character, professional competence, or physical or mental health of a person, provided that such person is notified in writing at least twenty-four hours, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, before the scheduled time contained in the notice of the meeting at which such executive session is to take place and that such person may require that such discussion be held at an open meeting.….In cases of extraordinary emergency, written notice to such person shall not be required; however, the public body shall give such notice as it deems appropriate and circumstances permit; (2) Strategy sessions or negotiations with respect to collective bargaining, prospective litigation after formal written demand, or litigation when an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the bargaining or litigating position of the public body;….(4) Investigative proceedings regarding allegations of misconduct; (5) Cases of extraordinary emergency, which shall be limited to natural disaster, threat of epidemic, civil disturbances, suppression of insurrections, the repelling of invasions, or other matters of similar magnitude; and,….(10) Or any other matters now provided for or as may be provided for by the legislature.”

Medical Psychology Advisory Committee Meeting

, pursuant to LSA-R.S. 42:19(A), that the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners (the "Board"), within the Louisiana Department of Health, State of Louisiana, shall convene a Regular

and teleconference for the public session and via non-streaming video and teleconference during the executive 

. Click the appropriate committee’s name then “Live Stream Here” next to the date. The YouTube link will be posted immediately prior to

Camp Street, New Orleans, Louisiana, or remotely.

Individuals wishing to make verbal comment must email 

The committee will make reasonable efforts to accommodate requests made while the meeting is in progress

to limit or prohibit participation in order to maintain orderly conduct of the meeting in accordance with La. R.S. 42:17(C).

verbal comments by notifying the presiding officer at the

Regular Meeting held and noticed pursuant to La. Rev. Stat. §42:17A(1), (2), (4), (5) and (10), R.S. 42:17.3 and Act 408 of the 2022 Regular Session. Further, agenda items may be taken out of order and/or in executive session pursuant to R.S 42:17A. La. R.S. 42:17A states “A public body may hold an executive session pursuant to La. R.S. 42:16 for one or more of the following reasons: (1) Discussion of the character, professional competence, or physical or mental health of a person, provided that such person is notified in writing at least twenty-four hours, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, before the scheduled time contained in the notice of the meeting at which such executive session is to take place and that such person may require that such discussion be held at an open meeting.….In cases of extraordinary emergency, written notice to such person shall not be required; however, the public body shall give such notice as it deems appropriate and circumstances permit; (2) Strategy sessions or negotiations with respect to collective bargaining, prospective litigation after formal written demand, or litigation when an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the bargaining or litigating position of the public body;….(4) Investigative proceedings regarding allegations of misconduct; (5) Cases of extraordinary emergency, which shall be limited to natural disaster, threat of epidemic, civil disturbances, suppression of insurrections, the repelling of invasions, or other matters of similar magnitude; and,….(10) Or any other matters now provided for or as may be provided for by the legislature.”

Occupational Therapy Advisory Committee Meeting

, pursuant to LSA-R.S. 42:19(A), that the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners (the "Board"), within the Louisiana Department of Health, State of Louisiana, shall convene a Regular Call meeting of the Clinical Laboratory Personnel Advisory Committee starting at 3:00 P.M., Wednesday,

live- streaming video and teleconference for the public session and via non-streaming video and teleconference during the executive session.

Clinical Laboratory Personnel Advisory Committee Meeting

R.S. 42:17.3 and Act 408 of the 2022 Regular Session, the advisory committee will participate via live- streaming video and teleconference for the public session and via non-streaming video and teleconference during the executive session.

 Click the appropriate committee’s name then “Live Stream Here” next to the date. The YouTube link will be posted immediately prior to

Respiratory Therapy Advisory Committee Meeting

Multi-State Outbreak of Infant Botulism Linked to ByHeart Infant Formula 

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) is issuing this health advisory to alert clinicians about a 

 and assist in identification and management of suspected cases. 

To date, no cases have been identified in Louisiana.

 has been identified in the United States. As of November 14, 2025, this outbreak includes 23 infants with suspected or confirmed infant botulism from 13 states (

). All 23 infants were hospitalized and treated with BabyBIG® (Botulism Immune Globulin Intravenous medication). No deaths have been reported.

The CDC National Botulism Surveillance System records approximately 150-180 infant botulism cases each year. In 2024, over half of infants with infant botulism were exclusively breastfed and 43% were receiving powdered infant formula before becoming ill.  According to information shared by the 

Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program (IBTPP)

, since August 1, 2025, through November 10, 2025, 84 infants nationwide have received BabyBIG® treatment.

Data from IBTPP have demonstrated a concerning association between consumption of ByHeart infant formula and botulism. Among the 84 infants recently receiving BabyBIG® treatment, 36 (43%) had any powdered infant formula exposure. Notably, more than 40% (15) consumed ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula.  This information shows that ByHeart brand formula is disproportionately represented among sick infants in this outbreak, especially given Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) data that ByHeart represents an estimated 1% of all infant formula sales in the United States. Investigations are ongoing but have not identified any other infant formula brands or shared exposures that pose a risk to infants at this time.

 that parents and caregivers immediately stop use of all ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula, including cans and single serve packets.

 On November 11, ByHeart Inc. recalled all ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula products. FDA does not anticipate any formula shortages as a result of this outbreak.

Infant botulism occurs when an infant ingests spores from a type of bacteria called 

, which then grows in the large intestine and produces toxin that blocks the neuromuscular junction by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine. Initial signs and symptoms often include constipation, difficulty feeding (difficulty sucking or swallowing), loss of head control, weak facial expression, and reduced muscle tone. Without prompt recognition and treatment, descending paralysis may progress and involve the respiratory muscles, potentially leading to life-threatening respiratory failure. The time from ingestion to symptom presentation can be up to 30 days.

Recommendations for Healthcare Professionals

Consider infant botulism a clinical diagnosis

 in any infant presenting with unexplained weakness, poor feeding, decreased head control, or difficulty swallowing — especially if the infant has consumed ByHeart formula.

Immediate actions when suspecting a case:

Caregiver guidance when ByHeart formula was used:

Multi-State Outbreak of Infant Botulism Linked to ByHeart Infant Formula

 pursuant to LSA-R.S. 42:19(A), that the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners (the "Board"), within the Louisiana Department of Health, State of Louisiana, shall convene a Regular Call meeting of the Occupational Therapy Advisory Committee starting at 10:00 AM., November 14, 2025, at the offices of the Board, 630 Camp Street, New Orleans, Louisiana. Pursuant to La. R.S. 42:17.3 and Act 408 of the 2022 Regular Session, the advisory committee will participate via live-streaming video and teleconference for the public session and via non-streaming video and teleconference during the executive session. 

. Click the appropriate committee’s name then “Live Stream Here” next to the date. The YouTube link will be posted immediately prior to the meeting. Members of the public may view the video meeting at the anchor location at 630 Camp Street, New Orleans, Louisiana, or remotely. 

Individuals who wish to make a public comment before or during the meeting, may do so by emailing: 

. Public comments comprised of videos and/or audio content must be limited to no more than 3 minutes length and the email size must be less than 10 megabytes. Both requirements must be met, or the content will be refused by our system. All comments received prior to or during the meeting will be identified and acknowledged during the meeting and maintained in the meeting minutes. 

Members of the public may give verbal comment on any agenda item when the matter comes up for discussion. Individuals wishing to make verbal comment must email 

with the subject line “ZOOM LINK REQUEST” to request a link to the videoconference, identifying themselves by name and relevant affiliation, if any, and the agenda item about which they wish to make verbal comment. This request should be made as far in advance of the meeting as possible so that the request can be processed. The committee will make reasonable efforts to accommodate requests made while the meeting is in progress but cannot guarantee that such requests can be honored. The committee reserves the right to limit or prohibit participation in order to maintain orderly conduct of the meeting in accordance with La. R.S. 42:17(C). Members of the public who choose to view the video meeting at the anchor location may give verbal comments by notifying the presiding officer at the anchor location. 

. Click the appropriate committee’s name then “AGENDA” next to the date. 

Note: Regular Meeting held and noticed pursuant to La. Rev. Stat. §42:17A(1), (2), (4), (5) and (10), R.S. 42:17.3 and Act 408 of the 2022 Regular Session. Further, agenda items may be taken out of order and/or in executive session pursuant to R.S 42:17A. La. R.S. 42:17A states “A public body may hold an executive session pursuant to La. R.S. 42:16 for one or more of the following reasons: (1) Discussion of the character, professional competence, or physical or mental health of a person, provided that such person is notified in writing at least twenty-four hours, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, before the scheduled time contained in the notice of the meeting at which such executive session is to take place and that such person may require that such discussion be held at an open meeting.….In cases of extraordinary emergency, written notice to such person shall not be required; however, the public body shall give such notice as it deems appropriate and circumstances permit; (2) Strategy sessions or negotiations with respect to collective bargaining, prospective litigation after formal written demand, or litigation when an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the bargaining or litigating position of the public body;….(4) Investigative proceedings regarding allegations of misconduct; (5) Cases of extraordinary emergency, which shall be limited to natural disaster, threat of epidemic, civil disturbances, suppression of insurrections, the repelling of invasions, or other matters of similar magnitude; and,….(10) Or any other matters now provided for or as may be provided for by the legislature.”

Guidance for evaluating suspected measles cases

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has confirmed 

one case of measles in an adult resident of Region 9

 (comprised of Livingston, St. Helena, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Washington parishes). The patient was exposed to measles during 

. The patient was not hospitalized and will remain in isolation until no longer infectious. This patient’s vaccination status is unknown. 

The Department's epidemiologic investigation identified the following public exposure:

This is the third measles case reported in Louisiana in 2025. 

In 2024, three confirmed measles cases were reported in Louisiana, all five prior cases from 2024-2025 were travel-associated and in the greater New Orleans area.

Healthcare providers should proactively identify and update the immunity status of their patients and be 

vigilant for the possibility of additional cases of measles.

Importations of measles into communities with unvaccinated persons can lead to measles cases and outbreaks in the United States. Maintenance of 

are key factors to limit importations and the spread of disease.

●      Consider measles in patients who:

and clinically compatible measles symptoms (

cough, coryza (runny nose) or conjunctivitis

 that spreads from the head to trunk to the extremities.

locations in the United States with known outbreaks 

or were exposed to someone who recently traveled.

●      Also consider measles when evaluating patients for other 

●      If you suspect measles, do the following immediately:

to minimize disease transmission (See Management of Patients below).

a suspect measles case to the Louisiana Office of Public Health (OPH) Infectious Disease Epidemiology Hotline at 

for testing from patients with suspected measles and send to State Lab. Get specimen collection advice by calling 

Management of Patients with Febrile Rash Illness

●      Ideally, all patients with suspect measles should be 

placed immediately into an airborne infection isolation room (AIIR)

. If AIIR is not available, place patient in a private room with the door closed.

●      The other steps listed below (e.g., masking patient, placing in a private room) may reduce the spread of measles, but do not eliminate the need for full post-exposure control measures.

●      Only staff with evidence of immunity to measles should attend to suspect measles patients.

    ○      Ensure that you have documented evidence of immunity to measles for all staff to ensure those who are caring for the patient are vaccinated.

 (e.g., fit-tested N95 respirator) regardless of immunity, upon entry to the patient’s room.

●      If not admitted, use standard and airborne precautions while the patient is exiting the facility.

Patients should be told to remain in isolation at home through 4 days after rash onset.

●      Measles virus can remain suspended in the air for up to 2 hours. 

Following patient discharge, “rest” non-AIIR rooms for at least two hours before allowing others to enter.

The collection of clinical specimens for measles testing on all individuals with suspect measles is extremely important. Contact the OPH epidemiology hotline (available 24/7) at 

for technical guidance on specimen collection, necessary submission forms, and to arrange for transportation to the State Laboratory.

Communication with LOPH epi and testing at the State Lab are critical to the timeliness of Louisiana’s public health response.

Post-Exposure Control Measures Should Cases be seen in Healthcare Facilities

infectious for 4 days before through 4 days after onset of rash

 (day of onset is day 0); a total of nine days.

, including individuals in the waiting and examination rooms at any time while the index case was present and up to 2 hours after, and all staff both with and without direct patient contact. Due to the airborne route of measles transmission, areas of shared air space well beyond those occupied by the patient may be considered exposed, potentially encompassing an entire facility.

all exposed individuals for acceptable evidence of immunity.

●      Contact LDH Infectious Disease Epidemiology Hotline for assistance: at 

Post-exposure measures: vaccinate all susceptible persons or provide immune globulin

Measles vaccine given within 72 hours of exposure may prevent disease. 

most effective if given within 72 hours of exposure to measles, 

MMR vaccination can still be provided after 72 hours and protect against future exposures.

aged 6 through 11 months, MMR vaccine can be administered in place of IG, if administered within 72 hours of exposure. Do 

 administer MMR vaccine and IG simultaneously, as this practice invalidates the vaccine. These infants must still receive a normal 2-dose series beginning ≥12 months of age.

without evidence of current severe immunosuppression can be vaccinated. See the

ACIP statement regarding measles, mumps and rubella for additional information.

Provide post-exposure prophylaxis with immune globulin within 6 days

to susceptible patients at increased risk of severe disease from measles (see below*).

from work from day 5 through day 21 after exposure if not vaccinated. (If the case is confirmed, even those healthcare staff vaccinated within 72 hours may need to be excluded.)

for early identification of secondary cases should be continued for two incubation periods (42 days).

Post-exposure Prophylaxis with Immune Globulin (IG)

IG can prevent or modify measles in persons who are nonimmune if given within 6 days of exposure.

●      There are three groups of patients at increased risk of severe disease from measles:

    ○      pregnant women without evidence of measles immunity;

    ○      and severely immunocompromised individuals.

●      The recommended dose of IG administered intramuscularly (IGIM) is 0.5 mL/kg of body weight (maximum dose = 15 mL) and the recommended dose of IG given intravenously (IVIG) is 400 mg/kg.

 Recommended use of IGIM in infants <12 months

: IGIM should be administered to all infants aged <12 months who have been exposed to measles. For infants aged 6 through 11 months, MMR vaccine can be administered in place of IG if administered within 72 hours of exposure.

IVIG use in pregnant women without evidence of immunity

: IVIG should be administered to pregnant women without evidence of measles immunity who have been exposed to measles. IVIG is recommended to administer doses high enough to achieve estimated protective levels of measles antibody titers.

: Severely immunocompromised patients who are exposed to measles should receive IVIG prophylaxis regardless of immunologic or vaccination status because they may not be protected by the vaccine.

Guidance for Evaluating Suspected Measles Cases

Severe Illnesses Linked to Injection of Botox Products from Unlicensed Sources

alert clinicians about risks of counterfeit or mishandled botulinum toxin injections, particularly from unlicensed sources and in non-medical settings.

 following botulinum toxin injections among Louisiana residents. One patient received injections of an unlicensed botulinum toxin product 

, and one patient received injections from an individual with unknown licensure in a 

. These patients began experiencing botulism-like symptoms a few days following the injections, and 

both experienced severe illness requiring hospitalization

 is a rare and sometimes fatal illness caused by botulinum toxin. Initial botulism 

double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and difficulty breathing

. These symptoms can be followed by a descending, symmetric 

A suspected case of botulism is a clinical and public health emergency. 

Treating patients with botulism antitoxin early in the course of disease can prevent the progression of paralysis and consequent complications.

Botulinum toxin products can be safe and effective for cosmetic and medical applications when obtained from authorized suppliers of products approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and administered by licensed and trained providers. Healthcare providers and the public should be aware of the 

serious risks associated with injection of non-FDA-approved products

. Unlicensed products may be misbranded, adulterated, counterfeit, contaminated, improperly stored and transported, ineffective, or unsafe. 

 could increase the risk of harm, even when using FDA-approved products.

·  Consider the possibility of adverse effects from botulinum toxin injection, including for cosmetic reasons, when patients present with signs and symptoms consistent with botulism near the injection site.

.  Be aware of symptom overlap between the presentation of localized adverse effects from injection of botulinum toxin and the early symptoms of botulism. To help distinguish early botulism symptoms from localized adverse effects:

.  Assess for symmetry of cranial nerve palsies; symmetric cranial nerve palsies are expected with botulism.

.  Assess for progression of cranial nerve palsies, possibly followed by a descending symmetric flaccid paralysis. These should raise suspicion for botulism.

LDH’s Infectious Disease Epidemiology Clinician 24/7 Hotline at 800-256-2748

·  If public health clinical consultation supports botulism, 

.  Antitoxin binds only to circulating toxin in the bloodstream. Careful consideration of dose, injection site, symptom presentation, and timing can help determine the need for antitoxin. Importantly, antitoxin does not:

.  Try to get information about the source and strength of the botulinum toxin products, the administration method (e.g., self-injection or injection by a licensed, trained provider), the administration site, and if others were injected with the same product.

.  Make note of details that might indicate the patient received injections with botulinum toxin products from unlicensed sources, including whether the patient:

·  Report suspected botulism immediately to LDH’s Infectious Disease Epidemiology Clinician 24/7 Hotline at 800-256-2748.

·  Report adverse events related to the use of any medications, including unverified botulinum toxin products, to 

FDA’s MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program

.  Counsel patients who report using or being interested in using botulinum toxin about risks for potential adverse effects.

·  Advise patients to receive injections only from licensed providers who are trained in proper administration of FDA-approved botulinum toxin products and practicing in accordance with state and local requirements.

·  Diagnostic testing for suspected botulism may be done through CDC.

.  Laboratory confirmation of botulism is done by demonstrating the presence of botulinum toxin in serum through either mouse bioassay or mass spectrometry.

.  For further guidance on submitting clinical specimens for testing, contact LDH’s Infectious Disease Epidemiology Clinician 24/7 Hotline at 800-256-2748.

Harmful Reactions Linked to Counterfeit “Botox” or Mishandled Botulinum Toxin Injections

Counterfeit Version of Botox Found in Multiple States

Notes from the Field: Illnesses After Administration of Presumed Counterfeit Botulinum Toxin in Nonmedical Settings — Tennessee and New York City, March 2024

Information for Health Professionals on Botulism

1. Rao AK, Sobel J, Chatham-Stephens K, Luquez C. Clinical Guidelines for Diagnosis and Treatment of Botulism, 2021. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2021;70(No. RR-2):1–30.

2. Rao AK, Lin NH, Jackson KA, Mody RK, Griffin PM. Clinical Characteristics and Ancillary Test Results Among Patients With Botulism — United States, 2002–2015. Clin Infect Dis. 2018;66(suppl_1):S4–S10.

LDA Health Alert - Severe Illnesses Linked to Injection of Botox Products from Unlicensed Sources

Heat is an important occupational hazard. Workers exposed to high levels of heat can develop heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and life-threatening heat stroke. Heat stress can also increase trips, falls, and other work accidents.

These training resources help employers safeguard outdoor workers during extreme heat conditions.

Heat Illness Prevention | What Employers Can Do to Protect Workers from Heat

A pratical guide outlining key employer strategies for heat illness prevention, including training, scheduling, monitoring, and acclimatization.

Heat Illness Prevention | What Workers Need to Know

A worker-focused guide covering heat illness prevention, risk factors, the buddy system, and when to seek help.

Heat Illness Prevention | Water, Rest and Shade

Emphasizes the importance of hydration, regular rest breaks, and effective shade strategies to prevent heat-related illness.        

Overview of how to recognize the symptoms and respond to heat illness.

An employer checklist to reinforce trainings and safe work practices.

Southeastern Louisiana University offers free training for workers and employers focused on heat illness prevention. These sessions are available in person at worksites or virtually via Zoom. Trainings are available in Spanish.

For more information, or to schedule a training, email 

Preventing Heat Illness at Work: Training Resources for Louisiana Employers and Workers

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) is issuing this health advisory to alert providers of an 

increase in pertussis (whooping cough) cases

.  In Louisiana, an increase in pertussis cases began in September 2024 and is ongoing

Pertussis is endemic in the United States and Louisiana. It is a cyclical disease with peaks in reported cases occurring every few years. However, the increasing number of pertussis case reports that began in September 2024 could result in a record high number of cases during 2025—more than has been seen annually in the state for at least 35 years. 

Because of the high level of pertussis transmission that is occurring, an 

increased number of hospitalizations and deaths are also being reported

. Between September 1, 2024 and April 1, 2025,

 251 pertussis cases and 40 pertussis-related hospitalizations were reported in Louisiana.

 During the same timeframe the previous year (September 1, 2023- April 1, 2024), eight pertussis cases and no pertussis related hospitalizations were reported.

Infants under one year old have the highest reported rate of pertussis, and the risk of severe complications and death resulting from pertussis is highest among infants. To date in 2025, 

the pertussis case rate for infants in Louisiana is at least 7 times higher

 than all other age groups. Since September 2024, 

70% of the pertussis-related hospitalizations in Louisiana have occurred among patients younger than one year of age

Two pertussis-related deaths occurred among young infants 

hospitalized during that timeframe. These are the first pertussis deaths reported in Louisiana since 2018.

 in the differential diagnosis of patients with compatible symptoms and 

 with a macrolide antibiotic, or, for macrolide allergic patients, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, to reduce symptom severity and transmission.

Provide antibiotics as post-exposure prophylaxis to all household members and high-risk, close contacts

 (e.g., immunocompromised persons, pregnant women, infants); prophylactic antibiotics are the same as used for treatment.

Ensure that pediatric and adult patients are 

up-to-date with pertussis-containing vaccine

, especially Tdap for pregnant women during each pregnancy.

Prevention, consultation, testing, and treatment

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