Drug treatment experts reach out to help inmates in New Mexico jails
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According to the organization, 60% of people incarcerated in jails struggle with substance abuse. While efforts have been made in prisons to treat inmates with addiction issues, some of those same efforts have not been seen in jails. It's a change that Project ECHO is working to address. 'Jail staff and administrators are reporting to us that they're seeing better outcomes,' Assistant Professor of Family and Community Medicine at UNM Nathan Birnbaum said.
Project ECHO began its outreach to jails around New Mexico last summer.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Business Journals
17 hours ago
- Business Journals
How Los Angeles-based Med-X's Nature-Cide division is making the world safer for all
In an era where sustainability and public health are front and center, Med-X, Inc. is reshaping the future of pest control through its flagship product line, Nature-Cide. What began as a Los Angeles based Eco-Friendly Integrated Pest Management (IPM) pest control service has evolved into a global force for change—offering scientifically validated, plant-based alternatives to chemical pesticides across residential, commercial, and agricultural sectors. For decades, the American public has unknowingly been exposed to harmful chemicals in everything from the food they eat to everyday products and the air they breathe, all of which have contributed to growing concerns about these substances' environmental and health impacts. It wasn't until the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic that many individuals began questioning the systems around them, scrutinizing labels, and demanding transparency from businesses and governments. Recognizing the increasing demand for safer alternatives, the native angelenos and Med-X founders, Matthew and Jennifer Mills took action. With years of experience in product development, CEO Matthew Mills led his Med-X, Inc. team in creating a line of plant-based pest control products called Nature-Cide. These industrial strength, plant-based pest control solutions are designed to replace and augment harmful chemical pesticides in residential and commercial applications. Nature-Cide has quickly gained global recognition as a leading eco-friendly application for professional pest control solutions, now trusted worldwide by professional pest control applicators. Formulated using essential oils like clove, cedar, cottonseed, and cinnamon, Nature-Cide products are non-toxic, non-flammable, and safe to use around humans and pets—without compromising effectiveness or the environment. 'Sometimes nature needs a little science,' said Matthew Mills. 'We're seeing real change take root. Cities in Georgia are already implementing aerial mosquito applications of Nature-Cide with great success, and we're in discussions with the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to expand its use in disaster relief, particularly after storms where mosquito-borne illnesses spike.' expand The Origins of Med-X Ironically, Nature-Cide was initially a byproduct of Med-X's other divisions, such as Thermal-Aid and Malibu Brands. However, the company's journey truly took off through its eco-friendly Integrated Pest Management (IPM) services for rattlesnake abatement in Los Angeles county in the cities of Malibu and Calabasas. The market was and still is in desperate need of minimum-risk eco-friendly pest control, and Med-X stepped in to set a new benchmark in environmentally responsible pest management. What began as a niche, local solution is now becoming a standard in the professional pest control industry globally. The Health Credentials of Nature-Cide The company soon began earning national and international recognition for providing effective alternatives to conventional pesticides across residential, commercial, and the agricultural sectors. Proudly produced in the USA under strict quality standards, Nature-Cide reflects Med-X's commitment to sustainable pest management innovation. Its plant-based formulation not only prioritizes safety but delivers industrial-grade results, challenging long-held assumptions about what natural products can achieve in professional settings. 'As parents and professionals, we wanted to create solutions that help families and protect communities,' said Jennifer Mills, President of Med-X. 'Seeing this idea—born right here in Los Angeles—resonate around the globe is beyond rewarding. But our work is far from done.' Verification and Authenticity Ongoing scientific research continues to validate the efficacy of the Nature-Cide brand. A 2019 independent, non-sponsored, peer-reviewed study published in the Journal of the Florida Mosquito Control Association showed that Nature-Cide was more effective than leading synthetic and botanical insecticides in controlling Aedes albopictus mosquitoes—carriers of West Nile virus and dengue fever. The study documented a 90% decrease in adult female mosquitoes four weeks after treatment, highlighting Nature-Cide's superior performance compared to widely used pyrethroid-based solutions. Growing Public Health Role and Global Reach Med-X is also working with policymakers to incorporate safer pest control options into public health programs. In several counties in the state of Georgia, the company promoted the use of Nature-Cide in aerial mosquito control efforts with the hopes of partnering with state agencies like GEMA and federal organizations, including FEMA, to support mosquito-borne disease prevention in high-risk areas. In November 2024, the company earned OMRI certification for one of its Nature-Cide products approved for food production use—solidifying its credibility in the agricultural space. Med-X has also expanded into Mexico, the Caribbean while working in Chile, Argentina, Peru, and Colombia, supported by strategic distribution partnerships. A broader global distribution alliance has extended the ongoing registration process across more than 29 territories in Asia, Oceania, Southern Africa, and the Middle East. Despite early skepticism about using essential oils for industrial pest control, Med-X gained traction by allowing local agencies and pest control operators to run their own evaluations. As consistent results emerged, demand soared and continued. Moving Forward Today, Nature-Cide products are trusted by professional pest control applicators on the global stage. Med-X continues to build partnerships with public health leaders, environmental organizations, and governments. The company's full product line is now available to consumers via Nature-Cide website and Amazon Prime, earning a growing base of positive reviews. Med-X's approach blends scientific integrity, environmental responsibility, with global engagement. What began as a local solution for rattlesnake abatement is now garnering a safer, science-driven future for pest control. With Nature-Cide, Med-X is shaping the future of numerous safe, science-based solutions to build a healthier world for all.


Newsweek
a day ago
- Newsweek
Mac & Cheese Recall Update as FDA Issues Risk Warning
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A recall of a macaroni and cheese snack due to possible contamination has been issued the second-highest risk classification by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Louisa Food Products, Inc., based in Saint Louis, Missouri, initiated a voluntary recall on July 17 for a select lot of its Breaded Jalapeno Mac & Cheese Bites after a supplier recalled an ingredient that was potentially contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. The FDA later issued a Class II risk classification for the recall on August 6. Newsweek contacted Louisa Food Products, Inc. for comment via its website outside of regular working hours. Why It Matters A Class II risk classification (one of three) refers to a situation in which the "use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote," according to the FDA. Listeria infection, or listeriosis, may lead to a range of symptoms in infected individuals. For those experiencing less severe infections, symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, which often last between one and three days, the FDA said. For more severe and potentially life-threatening infections, symptoms may include headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions. Severe infections are particularly dangerous for young children, frail or elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems. It can also lead to miscarriages and stillbirths in pregnant women. What To Know The product affected by the recall is the company's "Breaded Jalapeno Mac & Cheese Bites." According to the FDA, 819 cases are being recalled with the item number 90935 and lot code 2407092. The product was distributed to retail locations in Delaware and Illinois. No illnesses have been reported so far in connection with the consumption of the recalled product. Stock image. Louisa Food Products, Inc. initiated a voluntary recall on July 17 for a select lot of its Breaded Jalapeno Mac & Cheese Bites due to potential listeria contamination. Stock image. Louisa Food Products, Inc. initiated a voluntary recall on July 17 for a select lot of its Breaded Jalapeno Mac & Cheese Bites due to potential listeria contamination. Matthew Mead/AP What People Are Saying Mary O'Riordan, a professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Michigan Medical School, previously told Newsweek: "Listeria has an unusual capacity to grow at refrigerated temperatures. Although the bacterium can contaminate many types of food, cheeses or deli meats that are kept in cold storage for long periods in stores or at home are a place where listeria can keep growing. "Early symptoms of listeria infection look similar to other common foodborne infections, including fever, diarrhea and vomiting, so it's often not diagnosed right away. Unfortunately, sometimes listeria can spread into the brain and cause more serious illness, like meningitis. In those cases, if people experience headache, stiff neck or confusion, they should seek urgent medical attention." Haley F. Oliver, a professor of food science at Purdue University, previously told Newsweek: "Listeria monocytogenes is a common microorganism that can be found in the natural environment, for example in soil. There are many factors that determine if someone gets listeriosis—a listeria infection. In most instances, an immunocompromised person—so young, old, pregnant or otherwise immunocompromised—must eat contaminated food. The number of bacteria resulting in infection and the amount of time before illness varies considerably. Symptoms vary among people but can include fever, flu-like symptoms, headache, stiff neck, confusion and loss of balance." The FDA says on its website: "Pregnant women and their unborn or newborn baby, adults over the age of 65, and those with weakened immune systems, are all considered to be high-risk groups that are susceptible to the serious and adverse effects of listeriosis." What Happens Next? The recall is listed as ongoing, according to the FDA. Consumers who purchased the product should not consume it.


Indianapolis Star
a day ago
- Indianapolis Star
Measles Cases Increasing Worldwide, Need the New NV-387 Broad-Spectrum Antiviral to Combat, Says NanoViricides
SHELTON, CT / ACCESS Newswire NanoViricides, Inc., a publicly traded company (NYSE Amer.:NNVC) (the 'Company'), and a clinical stage, leading global pioneer in the development of broad-spectrum antivirals based on host-mimetic nanomedicine technology that viruses cannot escape, announced that its drug candidate NV-387 is the weapon necessary for combatting growing cases of measles worldwide, especially in the industrialized world including, USA, Canada, UK, and European Union. NV-387 is possibly the only drug candidate that has been shown to be effective and safe in animal model studies of Measles virus in humanized h-CD150+ knock-in mice, as reported previously by NanoViricides. NV-387 has completed a Phase I clinical trial with no reported adverse events, indicating excellent safety and tolerability in humans. The development of NV-387 as a treatment for Measles can be accelerated under the US FDA programs. Measles is considered a rare orphan disease in the USA. As such, NV-387 for the treatment of Measles would qualify for an Orphan Drug Designation. Orphan drug designation qualifies sponsors for incentives including tax credits for qualified clinical trials, exemption from user fees, and potential seven years of market exclusivity after approval [1]. The Company also plans to explore a 'Fast Track' designation for the NV-387 Measles indication. If granted, a drug approval can occur on the basis of a successful Phase II clinical trial without requiring a Phase III clinical trial, which significantly reduces the timeline to approval. Measles has become an important disease of concern globally in the recent years for several reasons. Most importantly, Measles disease can wipe out the previously learned immunity of the patient against many infections, including from prior infections, and non-live virus vaccines, making the population vulnerable to viruses that were encountered previously. This is because Measles virus attacks the CD150-bearing immune cells that are responsible for memorizing the prior infections and mounting defenses against them later. Measles is possibly the most communicable diseases, spreading through aerosol, that is known to humans. In patients, it produces severe morbidity with skin rash, pain, fatigue, and other syndromes. Rarely it can cause a brain disease. Measles mostly affects children. There were a total of 1,319 confirmed measles cases reported in the USA as of July 22, breaking the most recent record of 1,274 cases in 2019. Hospitalization rates for measles in the USA are about 13%, and fatalities are rare, although in 2025 there were three deaths to date. Canada is having a much worse Measles season than the USA, with more than 3,800 cases [2] to date in 2025. A Measles holiday warning has been issued in the UK this year [3]. England itself had more than 3,000 cases of Measles in 2024. In the European Region, 127,350 measles cases were reported for 2024, double the number of cases reported for 2023 and the highest number since 1997, according to an analysis by WHO and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) [4]. Worldwide, Measles cases continue to occur every year. Globally, there have been about 108,000 confirmed measles cases in 2025 to date, while in 2024 there were about 360,000 confirmed cases, according to the WHO [5]. A sustained measles vaccination rate of at least 95% is estimated to be required to maintain community immunity ('herd immunity'). Such a high rate is becoming increasingly difficult to achieve even in developed countries where access to vaccination is not an issue. While growing vaccine hesitancy is considered an important reason for the fall in Measles vaccination rates, two other factors are of importance as well: (i) The overall population in the industrialized world, as well as in developing world, has increased frequency of immune dysfunction, obesity, and diabetes. The people with immune dysfunction or immune compromise are less likely to benefit from almost any standard vaccination as compared to healthy people and are likely to result in breakthrough infections. (ii) Additionally, the current vaccine for Measles is a live attenuated vaccine of the 1968 era, and the virus has evolved well past that, although so far the Measles virus strains continue to be susceptible to antibodies produced from the standard vaccine; this can change with continuing circulation of the virus in vaccinated persons and can result in a virus that can substantially defeat the vaccine [6]. Further, vaccine hesitancy itself is not irrational because the standard Measles vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine to be given to infants at early age; it is a virus infection that continues to remain in the subject, which is why it provides lifelong immunity. Measles infection itself also provides lifelong immunity that includes the current strains of the virus. Thus, the Company projects continuing Measles cases worldwide, that require a drug to control the disease in the patient and its spread to others. We believe NV-387 fills this important medical need. There is no approved drug for treatment of Measles at present. ABOUT NANOVIRICIDES NanoViricides, Inc. (the 'Company') ( is a publicly traded (NYSE-American, stock symbol NNVC) clinical stage company that is creating special purpose nanomaterials for antiviral therapy. The Company's novel nanoviricide™ class of drug candidates and the nanoviricide™ technology are based on intellectual property, technology and proprietary know-how of TheraCour Pharma, Inc. The Company has a Memorandum of Understanding with TheraCour for the development of drugs based on these technologies for all antiviral infections. The MoU does not include cancer and similar diseases that may have viral origin but require different kinds of treatments. The Company has obtained broad, exclusive, sub-licensable, field licenses to drugs developed in several licensed fields from TheraCour Pharma, Inc. The Company's business model is based on licensing technology from TheraCour Pharma Inc. for specific application verticals of specific viruses, as established at its foundation in 2005. Our lead drug candidate is NV-387, a broad-spectrum antiviral drug that we plan to develop as a treatment of RSV, COVID, Long COVID, Influenza, and other respiratory viral infections, as well as MPOX/Smallpox infections. Our other advanced drug candidate is NV-HHV-1 for the treatment of Shingles. The Company cannot project an exact date for filing an IND for any of its drugs because of dependence on a number of external collaborators and consultants. The Company is currently focused on advancing NV-387 into Phase II human clinical trials. The Company is also developing drugs against a number of viral diseases including oral and genital Herpes, viral diseases of the eye including EKC and herpes keratitis, H1N1 swine flu, H5N1 bird flu, seasonal Influenza, HIV, Hepatitis C, Rabies, Dengue fever, and Ebola virus, among others. NanoViricides' platform technology and programs are based on the TheraCour® nanomedicine technology of TheraCour, which TheraCour licenses from AllExcel. NanoViricides holds a worldwide exclusive perpetual license to this technology for several drugs with specific targeting mechanisms in perpetuity for the treatment of the following human viral diseases: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV/AIDS), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), Rabies, Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2), Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV), Influenza and Asian Bird Flu Virus, Dengue viruses, Japanese Encephalitis virus, West Nile Virus, Ebola/Marburg viruses, and certain Coronaviruses. The Company intends to obtain a license for RSV, Poxviruses, and/or Enteroviruses if the initial research is successful. As is customary, the Company must state the risk factor that the path to typical drug development of any pharmaceutical product is extremely lengthy and requires substantial capital. As with any drug development efforts by any company, there can be no assurance at this time that any of the Company's pharmaceutical candidates would show sufficient effectiveness and safety for human clinical development. Further, there can be no assurance at this time that successful results against coronavirus in our lab will lead to successful clinical trials or a successful pharmaceutical product. This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect the Company's current expectation regarding future events. Actual events could differ materially and substantially from those projected herein and depend on a number of factors. Certain statements in this release, and other written or oral statements made by NanoViricides, Inc. are 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond the Company's control and which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the company's expectations include, but are not limited to, those factors that are disclosed under the heading 'Risk Factors' and elsewhere in documents filed by the company from time to time with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and other regulatory authorities. Although it is not possible to predict or identify all such factors, they may include the following: demonstration and proof of principle in preclinical trials that a nanoviricide is safe and effective; successful development of our product candidates; our ability to seek and obtain regulatory approvals, including with respect to the indications we are seeking; the successful commercialization of our product candidates; and market acceptance of our products. The phrases 'safety', 'effectiveness' and equivalent phrases as used in this press release refer to research findings including clinical trials as the customary research usage and do not indicate evaluation of safety or effectiveness by the US FDA. FDA refers to US Food and Drug Administration. IND application refers to 'Investigational New Drug' application. cGMP refers to current Good Manufacturing Practices. CMC refers to 'Chemistry, Manufacture, and Controls'. CHMP refers to the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use, which is the European Medicines Agency's (EMA) committee responsible for human medicines. API stands for 'Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient'. WHO is the World Health Organization. R&D refers to Research and Development. Public Relations Contact: ir@ View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire The post Measles Cases Increasing Worldwide, Need the New NV-387 Broad-Spectrum Antiviral to Combat, Says NanoViricides appeared first on DA80 Hub.