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DHSS cautions Missouri residents after West Nile virus kills three

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DHSS cautions Missouri residents after West Nile virus kills three


JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is sending a reminder out to Missourians to be vigilant after a surge of West Nile virus cases this year.

According to DHSS, three people have died among 15 who have been hospitalized due to the mosquito-borne disease. These numbers are the highest Missouri has seen in recent years.

Officials are investigating additional cases, they noted.

The infection may not show any symptoms in some people, but one in five may experience flu-like symptoms. This includes a fever, headache, or body aches. In more extreme cases—especially in older adults or those with weaker immune systems—the virus can lead to brain or spinal cord swelling and paralysis.

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“West Nile virus is a serious public health concern, and this year’s increase in cases is a reminder that we must remain vigilant,” Dr. George Turabelidze, state epidemiologist at DHSS, said in a release. “We are asking all Missourians to take simple but effective steps to protect themselves and their families.”

Among the St. Louis region, there have been three probable WNV cases in the City of St. Louis, one confirmed case and two probable in St. Louis County, one probable case in Jefferson County and one probable case in St. Charles County as of Oct. 4, according to data.

To minimize chances of contracting the infections, residents can:

  • Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or IR3535
  • Wear long sleeves and pants when mosquitos are most active during dawn and dusk
  • Remove any standing water in flowerpots, gutters, birdbaths, tires, etc.
  • Keep screen windows and doors in good condition with no tears
  • Report dead birds to the Missouri Department of Conservation

For more information about West Nile virus, click here.



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Missouri warns public about 7-OH products – Missourinet

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Missouri warns public about 7-OH products – Missourinet


The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has issued an advisory regarding 7-hydroxymitragynine, also known as 7-hydroxy and 7-OH.

It’s an extract of the kratom plant and it’s being marketed as a “natural remedy” for pain relief and brain stimulation. But 164 people in Missouri have died from using Kratom products since 2019, including those containing 7-OH.

Dr. Heidi Miller, Chief Medical Officer for DHSS compares 7-OH to an opioid, saying it can be up to 13 times stronger than morphine.

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“Nationally, we have seen patients who have died from overdose have had kratom-type substances in their blood,” she told Missourinet. “Unfortunately, it’s very hard to distinguish between whether or not someone has taken the kratom leaf versus this concentrated 7-OH substance.”

Miller also said the Missouri Poison Center has seen a rise in 7-OH reported cases.

“You know, two years ago, we only had about 19 reports, and then the year after that (2024), we had 25 reports. And this year, 2025 – the year isn’t even done – and we already have 47 reports.”

Miller said 7-OH is unregulated, and products containing the compound can easily be purchased online or at convenience stores, without age restrictions.

“Seven-hydroxy products are sold as, like, little energy shots or powders that can be mixed into drinks,” she said. “There are also versions that can be dissolved in the mouth. There are versions that can be inhaled. There are gummies.”

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Symptoms of 7-OH exposure may include:

  • Nausea, vomiting and gastrointestinal distress.
  • Anxiety, agitation, confusion and insomnia.
  • Rapid heart rate, high blood pressure and trouble breathing.
  • Seizures, unconsciousness and withdrawal symptoms.
  • Risk of overdose, especially when combined with alcohol or other sedatives.

Miller said anyone experiencing symptoms or is suspected of overdosing should call 911, and to administer naloxone (Narcan) if any is available.

Copyright © 2025 · Missourinet



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Here’s how to buy No. 17 Missouri vs. No. 3 Texas A&M college football tickets

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Here’s how to buy No. 17 Missouri vs. No. 3 Texas A&M college football tickets


The Texas A&M Aggies are one of the undefeated teams left in the college football Top 25 and they’re hoping to stay that way after facing another ranked opponent when the Aggies travel to Missouri.

The Aggies have not lost in the 2025 season, including securing two wins over ranked opponents including Notre Dame and, most recently, LSU. Missouri has won three of their last five games, but is coming off a loss to a climbing Vanderbilt Commodores team.

Here’s everything you need to know to buy Missouri vs. Texas A&M tickets:

Missouri vs. Texas A&M college football tickets

No. 17 Missouri will host No. 3 Texas A&M at Memorial Stadium in Columbia, Missouri on Saturday, Nov. 8 at 3:30 p.m. ET.

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Tickets are available now, starting at $166.

Missouri vs. Texas A&M game information



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Obituary for Ronald "Jay" Miller at Day Funeral Home

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Obituary for Ronald "Jay"  Miller at Day Funeral Home


Ronald Jay Miller December 8, 1976 October 30, 2025 Ronald Jay Miller, age 48, of Strafford, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on October 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Jay fought a courageous battle with cancer since 2023, showing strength and grace throughout his journey. Jay was



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