Health
Health news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
HealthOutbreak of diarrhea-causing parasite grows to more than 1, 000 cases
In Michigan, nearly 1,000 cases of cyclospora infections have been reported, marking the largest outbreak in the state's history. The infections, which can cause severe diarrhea, have led to about 40 hospitalizations, but no fatalities have been recorded. The outbreak began in late June, with the number of cases rising from 170 to 992 within a week. Investigations are ongoing in 28 other states, including Ohio, where over 300 cases have been confirmed. Health officials recommend washing fresh produce thoroughly and suggest avoiding prewashed items as they may carry the parasite.
HealthUTRGV, Harlingen CISD launch diabetes prevention initiative
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- The Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District is partnering with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in an effort to fight against diabetes in the region. The 'Live Longer by Design' initiative is a collaboration between both institutions that was created to prevent diabetes. In a state-mandated health screening, more than
HealthTexa ACA enrollment shrinks by 4 % after tax credit expiration, new federal data shows
In February 2026, Texas saw a 4% decline in Affordable Care Act (ACA) enrollees compared to the previous year, marking the first drop since 2019. This decrease follows the expiration of federal tax credits that had previously subsidized premiums for many. The number of Texans who activated their ACA coverage fell from 3.42 million in 2025 to 3.28 million in 2026. While the national average for enrollment decline was 12%, Texas fared better than most states. The shift in plan selection showed an increase in bronze and gold plans as enrollees adjusted to higher premiums after the subsidy expiration.
HealthWhat to know about protecting pets from the New World screwworm fly
Recent cases of the New World screwworm fly in Texas and New Mexico have raised alarms among veterinarians and humane societies regarding pet safety. This parasite, which feeds on live flesh, has reemerged after being largely eradicated for over 50 years. It poses a significant threat to pets, particularly those with open wounds or recent surgeries. Signs of infestation include restlessness, foul odor, and visible maggots. Pet owners are advised to use flea and tick medications to prevent infestations and to seek veterinary care immediately if symptoms arise. Efforts to eradicate the fly are underway, including breeding sterile males for release.
HealthState Funds Could Help Improve Ambulance Services
There is a fund from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) that could help expand an essential service for our community. According to Dr. Carlos Palacio, the Trauma Director of South Texas Health System Clinics, this fund 'is important because with every passing minute, the probability of death increases by 11%. Studies have shown that this is crucial before reaching the hospital to increase the chances of survival.' Over the past three years, STHS Clinics has worked with ambulance services in the Rio Grande Valley to provide these services to the community. This program could increase survival rates by up to 37%, and it has already proven successful at the national level. The doctor also notes that 'this treatment saves lives. It is equivalent to when seatbelt use became mandatory; it increases the chances of survival.' If a family member suffers an accident or a gunshot wound, the doctor recommends making a tourniquet with a shirt if a professional one is not available, to stop the bleeding. Additionally, it is always recommended to call 911 in case of an emergency.
HealthInstructor Jumps from Plane Mid-Flight, Leaving Student Alone at the Controls
In a shocking incident over Argentina, a flight instructor, Leandro Andrés Bertazzo, jumped from a Cessna 150 while instructing his student, 22-year-old Rosario, who already held a pilot's license. Reports indicate that he told her to proceed before opening the door and leaping out. Rosario managed to land the plane safely despite the traumatic experience. The incident is under investigation by the Federal Court of Córdoba, and the aircraft has been seized. Bertazzo, who had a decade of experience and was undergoing psychiatric treatment, had flown earlier that day without issues. Authorities are still determining the reasons behind his actions.
HealthDinner Tonight Jr. Empowers Families to Build Healthier Habits, July 9th
The McAllen Public Library, in collaboration with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Healthy South Texas, will host Dinner Tonight Jr. on July 9, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. This free nutrition education program aims to empower families by teaching practical skills for healthier living. The event, which has reached full capacity, includes interactive nutrition activities for youth and a workshop for parents on fostering healthy eating habits at home. Led by registered dietitian Ana Gonzalez, the program emphasizes community collaboration to enhance wellness and provide families with valuable resources for meal planning and food preparation.
HealthCases of Botfly Infestation in Dogs Reported: How to Protect Your Pet?
Two new cases of New World botfly in dogs are among more than 30 confirmed cases in Texas and New Mexico, prompting veterinarians and animal welfare organizations to warn pet owners on Wednesday to stay vigilant in protecting their animals. The parasite re-emerged in livestock in the United States in June, more than 50 years after it was nearly eradicated from the country. It is actually the larva of the New World botfly, which feeds on living flesh and fluids rather than dead matter, as most fly larvae do. Here’s what you need to know about the parasite, the threat it poses to pets, and how to protect them: Larvae can infest any mammal. The fact that the fly has migrated north from Panama starting in 2024, and through Mexico in 2025, has led agricultural authorities to warn that it poses a threat to the $113 billion livestock industry in the United States, but the larvae can hatch and reproduce in any mammal, including wildlife, dogs, cats, and occasionally humans. The problem arises when a female fly lays her eggs in open wounds and mucous membranes. After the eggs hatch, the larvae feed for about a week before maturing, falling to the ground, and continuing to develop into an adult fly. The American Veterinary Medical Association notes that newborn animals and those with open wounds or that have recently undergone surgery or other medical procedures are especially vulnerable. Even a tick bite can harbor an infestation, said Aaron Grady, executive director of the Houston Humane Society— a nonprofit dedicated to animal welfare— during a webinar on botflies. Signs of infestation. Animal health experts indicate that pet owners in areas where the botfly is present—southern and southwestern Texas, and southeastern New Mexico so far—should closely monitor their animals and regularly check for wounds, cuts, and bites. Pet owners should examine them for larvae or movement in a wound. Other signs include a foul odor and restlessness or anxiety in an animal, or the animal becoming “obsessed with looking at or nibbling a specific area of its body,” explained Melissa Stansell, a veterinarian at Austin Pets Alive! Any of these signs is sufficient reason to consult a veterinarian. The affected animal is likely in significant pain, which can lead to death from shock. The larvae can also cause death if they migrate to vital organs or cause infections that become fatal. Medications to prevent infections. Officials from animal welfare organizations and veterinarians noted that shelters across Texas are trying to prevent infestations in animals by administering prescription medications for fleas and ticks. They recommend that pet owners do the same. “It will kill the larvae as they ingest blood and tissue,” Stansell said. “The chemical compositions of these products are what kill the larval stages of these flies.” Veterinarians can also treat infestations, and animals can recover if owners contact them promptly. Stansell indicated that treatment may include antibiotics. “It’s only fatal if left untreated,” she added. What is being done to eradicate the fly? The New World botfly is a tropical species. Decades ago, it would disappear each year when the colder autumn and winter weather arrived. But state authorities and the Department of Agriculture (USDA) are not waiting for the weather to change. They have resumed an eradication method that worked decades ago: breeding sterile male flies and releasing them into the wild. The female New World botfly mates only once in her lifetime, which lasts several months, and if her mate is sterile, her eggs will not hatch, causing the population in an area to decrease and eventually disappear. For years, the only factory breeding sterile flies in the Western Hemisphere was in Panama, but the USDA invested $21 million to convert a site in southern Mexico—previously breeding fruit flies—to recently start breeding botflies. The agency also plans to spend $750 million on a new fly factory in Texas, which is expected to open next year.
HealthHe Threw Him in the Air and He Fell to the Ground: Video Reveals Dangerous Incident at Gym Daycare
A family has filed a lawsuit against a gym daycare in El Segundo, Los Angeles County, accusing it of causing their son a traumatic brain injury and hearing loss. The family of the minor requested privacy and stated that they prefer not to give interviews at this time. However, they issued a statement to Telemundo 52 informing that they have already filed a lawsuit against this establishment, which offers childcare services. In a video provided by the family's attorney, a staff member at Bay Club gym in El Segundo can be seen throwing the 23-month-old child into the air. The child then falls headfirst to the ground, and the employee falls on top of him. The incident occurred in March 2025 and has shocked those working in this area of California. 'She was not very responsible for playing so aggressively; it was probably too much for a small two-year-old,' said Ana Orozco, who works in the area.
HealthBrownsville pediatrician recognized for 48 years of service
BROWNSVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — After 48 years of service, Dr. Romeo Montalvo Jr. is retiring from his practice of pediatrics in Brownsville. To recognize Dr. Montalvo for his service to South Texas children and their families, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) is presenting him with a congressional record. The congressional record is described as a daily
HealthHealth Alert: Flea-Borne Bacteria Cases Exceed 7,000 in the Valley
According to a report from Texas A&M University, nearly 7,000 cases related to the Rickettsia typhi bacteria were recorded in the South Texas Valley between 2008 and 2023. If you have pets or feed stray animals, health specialists recommend taking preventive measures to reduce the risk of contracting this flea-borne bacteria. Health authorities explain that this bacteria is found in fleas that inhabit animals such as opossums, cats, rats, dogs, and other mammals. Although these animals typically show no symptoms, they can act as carriers and facilitate transmission to humans through fleas. Common symptoms in humans include high fever, severe headache, muscle aches, neck discomfort, and general malaise. However, specialists note that with timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the disease usually responds favorably and does not pose a high mortality risk. Veterinarians recommend strict flea control for pets through preventive treatments and regular consultations with a professional to choose the most suitable product. Additionally, experts advise frequently cleaning the areas where animals stay, as reducing the presence of fleas in the environment significantly decreases the risk of infection. Finally, health authorities recommend seeing a doctor if symptoms persist for more than two weeks or worsen, as early diagnosis facilitates treatment.
HealthAbbott directs investigation on Mission Regional Medical Center for alleged 'birth packages'
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- Gov. Greg Abbott on Tuesday directed the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to launch an investigation of the Mission Regional Medical Center. The investigation is followed by claims that the Mission Regional Medical Center targets foreign nationals with "birth packages" to profit from birth tourism, according to Abbott. Birth tourism
HealthEdinburg Extends Free VA Whole Health Wellness Series Through Fall 2026
The City of Edinburg has announced the extension of its free VA Whole Health Wellness Series through fall 2026, in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Monthly sessions will be held from July to October 2026 at the Edinburg Arts, Culture, and Events Center, located at 315 W. McIntyre Street. This program emphasizes a holistic approach to veteran healthcare, focusing on personal goals and well-being. Participants will connect with organizations that provide veteran benefits and care. The sessions are free, with walk-ins welcome, although reservations are encouraged. For more details, visit edinburgarts.com/veteranswellness.
HealthSocial Media Post Draws Attention to Mission Regional Medical Center Birth Package Advertising
A social media post by David J. Harris Jr. highlighted bilingual billboards at Mission Regional Medical Center advertising 'Birth Packages in South Texas' with prices for natural births at $3,950 and C-sections at $5,525. The post gained traction before Governor Greg Abbott instructed the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to investigate potential violations of advertising practices targeting foreign nationals. The billboards aim to attract birth tourism, allowing parents to secure U.S. citizenship for their children. The investigation will assess if the hospital breached state laws or contracts. The claims in the post remain unverified as of now.
HealthMission Regional Medical Center Under State Investigation for Alleged Birth Tourism Advertising
Mission Regional Medical Center is under investigation by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) following allegations of promoting 'Birth Packages in South Texas' to foreign nationals, potentially profiting from birth tourism. Governor Greg Abbott has called for a thorough inquiry to determine if the hospital violated state laws. Abbott condemned birth tourism as an illegal practice that exploits U.S. hospitality and has directed HHSC to take appropriate action, including possible sanctions. In response, the hospital stated its commitment to lawful practices and has ceased the controversial marketing materials.
HealthGovernor Orders Investigation Into Birth Tourism Packages for Foreign Nationals
Governor Greg Abbott has ordered the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to investigate Mission Regional Medical Center for allegedly offering 'birth packages' to foreign nationals. These packages are designed to attract expectant mothers seeking U.S. citizenship for their newborns through birth tourism, which Abbott describes as an illegal practice. The investigation will assess potential violations of state law, and any findings will be referred to the Attorney General for civil action and to local prosecutors for criminal charges. Abbott emphasized that Texas will not tolerate the exploitation of its healthcare system or citizenship laws.
HealthTexas Pushes for FDA Approval of Ivermectin in Feed to Fight Invasive Screwworm
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller is urging the FDA to approve ivermectin for use in medicated livestock feed to combat the New World screwworm outbreak affecting Texas ranchers. He emphasizes the urgency, stating that ranchers need all available tools to protect their livestock and the food supply. The request, made on behalf of the Texas Grain and Feed Association, seeks an Emergency Use Authorization to incorporate ivermectin into feed and supplements. Miller argues that while injectable ivermectin is a step forward, feed-based solutions are necessary for large-scale ranching and wildlife protection. The Texas Department of Agriculture supports this initiative, ready to act upon federal approval.
HealthWhat is Cyclosporiasis? The Parasitic Infection That Causes 'Explosive' Diarrhea
This summer, a surge in Cyclospora infections has been reported across over a dozen states, including Texas, Florida, and Michigan. Symptoms include watery and explosive diarrhea, gas, and abdominal cramps. Michigan has seen an unusual spike, with over 170 cases identified in just over a week, compared to the typical 50 cases annually. Cyclospora is contracted through contaminated food or water, and while not usually fatal, symptoms can last from days to over a month. To reduce infection risk, the CDC recommends washing hands and thoroughly cleaning fruits and vegetables. Treatment often involves antibiotics, but many recover without them.
HealthAll this could lead to death: Doctor warns of alcohol poisoning after teen hospitalized during Fourth of July party in McAllen
A couple in McAllen, Jose and Jeanett Garza, has been arrested for allegedly providing alcohol to a 15-year-old girl who was hospitalized during a Fourth of July party. The incident occurred at the Windsor Event Center, where the girl was found vomiting and struggling to breathe after consuming alcohol directly from bottles. An emergency medical resident warned of the severe risks of alcohol poisoning in teenagers, which can lead to death. The McAllen Police Department has noted an increase in reports of underage drinking, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement to protect the community's youth.