An Oakville man began rabies treatment after picking up a grounded bat; health officials warn residents not to handle bats and to report any indoor encounters.

A Poplar Bluff couple told lawmakers rural Missouri lacks memory‑care supports and specialists, and urged creation of a statewide dementia services coordinator. Advocates point to rising deaths and steep Medicaid costs.

Franklin County logged 18 bat bites and exposures in June — a sudden jump that has public‑health officials urging testing and prompt medical evaluation.