Health
Health news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
HealthVaccine rates see slight dips in McAllen and Brownsville school districts
As students in the Rio Grande Valley prepare to return to school, vaccination rates have slightly declined in McAllen and Brownsville school districts. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, McAllen ISD experienced a one-point drop in vaccination rates among kindergarteners and seventh graders across six vaccines. Brownsville ISD saw a similar decrease, except for hepatitis B, where rates remained stable. Interestingly, seventh graders in Brownsville ISD showed an increase in whooping cough vaccinations. Local pediatrician Dr. Umesh Pathak attributes some of the decline to misleading statements made by political figures regarding vaccinations. He emphasizes the importance of immunization for children's health.
HealthTexas offering free online screwworm inspector certification to protect livestock industry
Texas is offering free online certification for individuals interested in becoming screwworm inspectors to safeguard the livestock industry. The initiative aims to increase the number of inspectors to facilitate the movement of animals out of infested areas, thereby maintaining normal commerce. Daniel Hale from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service emphasized the urgency of this effort, as 32 screwworm infections have been confirmed in the U.S., primarily in Texas. The certification is available to sale barn employees, veterinarians, and volunteers with the Texas Division of Emergency Management. Interested individuals can register online.
HealthVitalant calls on type O donors during blood shortage
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A nonprofit blood service provider is calling on donors to consider giving blood due to a critical shortage of type O blood. Vitalant is reporting that the type O blood supply has decreased to a two-year low since May. Anais Gutierrez with Vitalant in the Rio Grande Valley said the need
HealthMexico City Increases Death Toll to 5 During World Cup; No Details Provided
MEXICO CITY – The government of Mexico City reported on Monday that five people have died during activities related to the 2026 World Cup, an increase from the four deaths previously reported by authorities. Nadine Gasman, the city's Health Secretary, stated in a press conference that since the World Cup began on June 11, five fatalities have been recorded in the capital. This figure contrasts with the four deaths reported by the city government last week following the celebrations for Mexico's victory over Ecuador. During her remarks, Gasman did not specify the circumstances surrounding the fifth death nor clarify whether it corresponds to a previously unreported case or an update to the official count. She also informed that since the start of the tournament, authorities have provided 3,563 medical services and conducted 93 hospital transfers. Gasman presented a breakdown of medical attention classified by triage levels and colors, noting 3,438 non-serious cases classified as green; 109 that required medical attention (red); and 11 considered serious with priority for transfer (yellow). 'And (color) black, which represents the deceased: five unfortunate fatalities,' she mentioned.
HealthBoy Declared Dead; Hours Later Found 'Breathing' in Morgue
On Super Bowl Sunday, a toddler in Arizona was declared dead at 6:20 PM after nearly drowning in a family pool. Hours later, at 11:52 PM, he was found breathing in the morgue. The Maricopa County Attorney's Office is investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, including potential child abuse charges against the parents. Reports indicate the parents may have been impaired by substances when the child wandered off. The child, Vincent Lorenzo Fiordilino, has since been released from the hospital but requires ongoing medical care. A hospital investigation into the incident is ongoing, and the doctor involved has not commented publicly.
HealthDo Not Use: Shampoo Sold in the United States Recalled Due to Bacterial Contamination
Kao USA Inc. has recalled several lots of Oribe Serene scalp thickening shampoo due to the detection of the bacteria Pluralibacter gergoviae. The affected products, sold in 8.5 oz and 33.8 oz bottles, pose a minimal health risk but may affect individuals with weakened immune systems. Consumers are advised to stop using the shampoo immediately. The affected lot numbers are UPC 840035231242 and UPC 840035231273, found at the bottom of the bottles. Retailers and beauty salons are urged to remove these products from shelves and return them to the company. For assistance, contact Kao Professional Hair at 800-333-2442 or email oribecomplaints@kao.com.
HealthPedigree Dog Food Recall Due to Contamination Concerns
Pedigree has recalled its canned dog food, specifically the 'Can High Protein Chopped Chicken & Duck Flavor,' due to contamination concerns involving sharp metal and plastic fragments. The FDA issued a warning stating that these contaminants pose choking hazards, lacerations, and potential intestinal blockages. The parent company, Mars, based in Chicago, identified two affected batches, 613C3KKCFC and 613C1KKCFC, which were sent for destruction but were later found to have been fraudulently sold in the U.S. No reports of pet illnesses or injuries have been received. Pet owners are advised to consult their veterinarians and contact Pedigree for replacements.
HealthAnother New World screwworm case confirmed in Crockett Co., cases rise to 31
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Another case of New World Screwworm has been confirmed in Crockett County by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The detection was confirmed on Friday in a domestic sheep, bringing the total number of cases of World Screwworm to 31, according to the USDA confirmed detections map. On July 3, the Texas Animal Health
HealthA Child Can Drown in Seconds: Doctors Urge for Prevention
Medical experts are raising concerns about the rising number of child drownings in the U.S., which has increased from 756 in 2019 to 865 in 2024. Drowning remains the leading cause of death for children aged 1 to 4. The pandemic disrupted swimming lessons and lifeguard training, contributing to this alarming trend. Stew Leonard, whose son drowned at 21 months, founded a foundation promoting water safety and swimming lessons. The CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics emphasize the importance of regulations, swimming classes, and caregiver vigilance to prevent drownings. Recent data suggests a potential decrease in drownings, but rates remain higher than pre-pandemic levels.
HealthSouth Texas Health System welcome two 4th of July babies
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The South Texas Health System congratulated two families in McAllen and Edinburg as they welcomed two babies born this Independence Day! Born at South Texas Health System McAllen and STHS Edinburg, Baby Olivia and Baby Carlos came into the world on America's 250th birthday. Baby Olivia, weighing six pounds and 12 ounces
HealthMore People Than Previously Thought at Risk of Developing Red Meat Allergy
Recent research from the CDC indicates that nearly 25% of adults in five states, including Arkansas and Kentucky, may show signs of exposure to alpha-gal syndrome, a tick-borne allergy to red meat. The study analyzed blood samples from 3,000 adults and found a significant correlation between living in areas with high populations of the lone star tick and the presence of antibodies linked to alpha-gal. While not all exposed individuals will develop the syndrome, the findings suggest a growing risk as tick populations expand. Experts warn that awareness and monitoring of this condition are crucial as cases continue to rise.
HealthTexas Launches Upgraded WIC EBT Cards for Families
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission has introduced upgraded Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. These new cards work with the myWIC app, allowing families to manage their benefits more effectively. Clients can track their purchases in real time and add benefits remotely. Starting July 1, clients received these cards during appointments and must set a PIN via the app or by calling the management line. The WIC program supports over 760,000 participants monthly, providing essential nutritious foods and resources for families. More details are available at TexasWIC.org.
HealthFDA Raises Alert Level for Potato Chip Recall Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has raised the alert level for the recall of Zapp’s and Dirty potato chips due to possible salmonella contamination. The parent company of the chip brands, UTZ Quality Foods, voluntarily recalled limited varieties of the product in May, as a seasoning containing powdered milk from California Diaries, Inc. could potentially contain salmonella, the company reported. In last Friday's weekly compliance report, the FDA upgraded the product recall to Class 1, meaning there is a reasonable probability that the use or exposure to a defective product could cause serious health consequences or death, according to the agency. Although the affected batches tested negative for the bacteria, they were recalled as a precaution. To date, Utz has not received any complaints regarding illnesses related to the recalled products.
HealthBeachgoers warned of flesh-eating bacteria ahead of July 4
The bacteria can enter the body through open wounds or by consuming raw oysters.
HealthInfection from wounds is the most urgent problem in Venezuela, doctors say
In the aftermath of the devastating twin earthquakes in Venezuela, doctors are warning of a looming medical crisis due to untreated wounds and infectious diseases. Thousands of displaced individuals are living in overcrowded shelters without access to clean water, exacerbating health risks. The earthquakes, which occurred on June 24, resulted in at least 2,295 deaths and over 11,000 injuries. The U.S. has deployed 900 military personnel to assist in rescue efforts and has pledged $300 million in aid. However, the estimated $6.7 billion in damages highlights the ongoing challenges facing Venezuela's healthcare system, already strained by years of economic decline and a shortage of medical professionals.
HealthInfections from 'explosive diarrhea' spreading in the United States
A parasitic infection causing explosive diarrhea is spreading across the United States, with hundreds of cases reported in over a dozen states, including a significant outbreak in the Midwest. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported in June that 145 cases of cyclosporiasis had been confirmed in people in the U.S., with another 45 individuals falling ill while traveling abroad. Subsequently, health authorities in Michigan reported on Wednesday a severe outbreak affecting more than 100 people in just nine days. The infections are caused by Cyclospora, 'a single-celled parasite too small to be seen with the naked eye,' according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. Here’s what we know so far: What is cyclosporiasis? According to the CDC, 'cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a parasite.' It is a form of food poisoning related to a parasitic infection. While it is generally not life-threatening, the parasite infects people through contaminated food or water.
HealthDanny Glover, the actor known for 'Lethal Weapon', reveals he has Alzheimer's disease
Actor and activist Danny Glover, known for playing a warm-hearted police officer in the 'Lethal Weapon' franchise, revealed that he has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. The four-time Emmy nominee, who turns 80 on July 22, shared with the 'Today' show and People magazine that he was diagnosed with the progressive disease that destroys memory three years ago. 'I still don't accept in my mind all its parts,' Glover told People magazine. 'There are moments when you still remember that validate the fact that you can remember things. And there are moments I will never forget.'
HealthDoctors Warn of Firework Dangers Ahead of July 4th
With just days to go before the July 4th celebration, medical experts are warning about the potential dangers of firework-related injuries and sharing what not to do in case of an injury. Dr. Carlos Palacio, a trauma surgeon at South Texas Health System Clinics, urges people to exercise extreme caution, as he has seen cases where individuals lose fingers, eyesight, or suffer facial deformities. He emphasizes that fireworks should always be handled by a professional. In the event of an accident at home, he advises against relying on folk remedies for treating burns. He stated, 'It's not advisable to use creams; we think that will neutralize the wound, but it's better to use cold water and go to the doctor.' He also recommends, 'If you have sterile gauze, cover the wound; if not, leave it open, apply pressure to stop the bleeding, and head to the hospital.' Remember, in case of an emergency, call 911. Here is a link from the Texas Department of Insurance offering tips for staying safe while using fireworks.
HealthTwo Women and a Man Die During Celebrations for Mexico's Victory Over Ecuador
MEXICO CITY – Three people have died from asphyxiation during celebrations in Mexico City following Mexico's victory over Ecuador in the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup, the Health Sector Command Center of the Mexico City Government reported on Wednesday. The deceased include two women, aged 48 and 19, and a 44-year-old man. 'The Mexico City Government is in contact with their families to provide all necessary support and assistance,' stated the head of the capital government, Clara Brugada, on social media. According to the city government, around one million people gathered on Tuesday night at the Angel of Independence to celebrate Mexico's 2-0 win over Ecuador, a result that allowed the team to advance to the Round of 16 of the World Cup hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada.