Kratom Safety in Focus (Ole Miss): Court filings and affidavits tied to the deaths of two Ole Miss students describe “Smax” kratom-based pills and purchases at nearby vape stores, while Mississippi doctors and lawmakers say the public health risk is already clear even as toxicology results are pending. Mental Health Response Training: A dozen Mississippi law enforcement officers completed Crisis Intervention Team training to better handle mental health crises and connect people to care. Rural Health Funding Watch: A Mississippi Today analysis says a small set of providers captured a large share of the state’s $104M rural healthcare grants, including Memorial Health System and a south-central hospital consortium. Flu Vulnerability: Mississippi ranks sixth for severe flu season risk, with low vaccination rates and access barriers highlighted. Maternal & Infant Health: MSDH hosted a maternal and infant health conference, underscoring ongoing state efforts to improve outcomes. Drug Pricing Relief (Multi-state): South Carolina and other states’ attorneys general, including Mississippi’s, urged eligible consumers to claim compensation from settlements over alleged inflated generic drug prices. Community Health Access: A telehealth and children’s services group partnership received grants aimed at improving rural healthcare. Public Health & Safety (Crash): An 18-wheeler crash and fire on I-59 in Lamar County sent two men to hospital with serious injuries. Deer Feeding Rule Update: Mississippi changed supplemental deer feeding rules to allow broadcast feeding on the ground, with limits still in place to help slow chronic wasting disease.