IDPH Newborn Screening to Include MLD, GAMT Results Beginning March 30
The Illinois Dept. of Public Health recently issued a reminder that beginning March 30, 2026, all newborn samples submitted for testing under the Illinois Newborn Metabolic Screening Act will now be screened for Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) and Guanidinoacetate methyltransferase (GAMT) deficiency. Results for both MLD and GAMT will be reported for all newborn samples received on and after March 30, 2026. For additional information, please visit the IDPH Newborn Screening website here.

Iranian Cyber Actors Targeting Programmable Logic Controllers, Telegram App
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency recently issued a report on Iranian cyber actors maliciously exploiting computers used to manage and monitor equipment, which are known as programmable logic controllers (PLCs). PLCs are commonly found in climate control systems, access control systems and many other applications in healthcare. The attacks are likely a direct response to current geopolitical tensions, the report said. Certain Rockwell Automation PLC devices have been targeted, and cyber criminals can potentially compromise, modify or exfiltrate data without authentication. The report strongly recommends those with targeted devices consider working with the vendor and/or managed service providers to address specific threats. It also provides mitigations to assist operators who have affected devices to determine how to prioritize the threat.

The FBI has also released an alert warning that cyber actors working on behalf of the Iranian government are also using a specific technique to conduct malicious cyber activity. The FBI said the cyber actors are using the Telegram messaging app to push malware targeting individuals and groups, which has resulted in data leaks and reputational harm against those parties. The FBI said it issued the alert to raise awareness of ongoing malicious Iranian cyber activity, and to offer mitigation strategies to reduce risk of compromise.

Scam Alert: Beware of Fraudulent DMV Penalty Texts
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is warning residents about a new surge in text message scams that falsely claim to be from the Illinois Secretary of State or DMV. These messages threaten vehicle registration suspension, license penalties, or other enforcement actions if an individual does not click a link or pay an alleged fine. The Secretary of State’s office is urging the public to exercise caution when receiving unsolicited messages.

Scammers have recently escalated their tactics, crafting messages that look increasingly official by referencing fabricated regulations, deadlines or penalty commencement dates. Many of the texts cite an upcoming enforcement date and list severe consequences to pressure recipients into acting quickly. These schemes are designed to create panic and trick individuals into surrendering money or personal information.

The Infectious Respiratory Disease Surveillance Dashboard from the Illinois Dept. of Public Health (IDPH) provides the latest data on hospital visits, seasonal trends, lab test positivity and demographic data. IDPH also tracks COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus information through the Illinois Wastewater Surveillance System dashboard.

Briefly Noted

A recent JAMA study found that between 2016 and 2023 nearly 18% of pediatric hospital deaths were linked to sepsis, and 10% of children with sepsis died while in the hospital. Study authors developed a more standardized way to measure child sepsis cases and deaths, using electronic health records, use of antibiotics, and markers of organ dysfunction. Previous studies have relied on diagnostic codes, which can vary in accuracy.

Leading the News

Illinois debate on prescription drug discount program intensifies

KRCU

Illinois is facing an intense battle over a federal program requiring drug manufacturers to sell deeply discounted medications to safety-net hospitals and clinics.

St. Mary’s and Good Samaritan wound care clinics receive national recognition

WJBD

The Wound Care Clinics at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital and SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital have been honored with two outstanding achievement awards from RestorixHealth, recognizing exceptional clinical performance and patient experience.

Plan Commission approves new Advocate Trinity Hospital in Quantum Park

YIMBY

The Chicago Plan Commission has approved plans for the new location of Advocate Health Trinity Hospital at 8000 South Lake Shore Drive in South Chicago. Situated at the intersection with South Brandon Avenue, the development will replace a large vacant lot north of the upcoming Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park.

Silver Cross named one of Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals for 2026

Shaw Local

Silver Cross Hospital has been named to Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals list for 2026, marking the eighth consecutive year the hospital has appeared in the annual rankings. In fact, Silver Cross has earned a spot on the prestigious list every year since it was first introduced, earning the added title of “All-Time Champion” by Newsweek.

University of Illinois Chicago medical students receive their matches to hospitals

Fox

Big day for med students at UIC. They just opened envelopes to see where they’ll train next. Where they end up matters. It can affect how easy it is to see a doctor in Illinois. And the state definitely needs more doctors right now.

Fairfield Memorial Hospital completes National Pediatric Readiness Assessment

WFIW

Fairfield Memorial Hospital has successfully completed the 2026 National Pediatric Readiness Project (NPRP) Nationwide Assessment, reinforcing the hospital’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality emergency care for children in the community.