Health
Health news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
HealthHidalgo County WIC to close clinic, launch online benefit service July 1
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Hidalgo County WIC Program announced it will permanently close a Mission clinic and launch a new online benefit issuance service on Wednesday. The Mission I WIC Clinic is located at 211 South Schuerbach Road in Mission will permanently close on July 1, 2026. The closure comes as the program launches a new online benefit issuance service on the
HealthRanchers in the Rio Grande Valley Prepare Against Burrowing Worm Infestation
During a meeting held in Raymondville, Texas A&M specialists gathered with ranchers from the region to explain the behavior of the fly that transmits the burrowing worm and the measures that can help curb its spread. They stated that the best tool for detecting the infestation is constant observation of the animals, especially if they show open wounds. Earlier this month, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department confirmed the first case of an animal affected by this pest in the state, involving a three-week-old calf located in Zavala County. Since then, authorities have recommended frequently checking any cuts or injuries on animals and contacting a veterinarian immediately if larvae or any suspicious signs are present. They also emphasized the importance of reporting cases promptly, as this allows for the implementation of control measures, such as quarantines and the release of sterile flies used to reduce the pest's reproduction.
HealthLaredo bracing after screwworm found right across border
The South Texas border town of Laredo is taking extra precautions after a case of New World screwworm was found in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, just across the Rio Grande. Laredo Mayor Victor Treviño said Saturday that every animal entering the city's public animal shelter is now being inspected for cuts, wounds, abrasions and any signs of infestation from the New World screwworm.
HealthDHR Health Offers Advanced, Comprehensive Care for Scoliosis Patients–Early Detection is Key!
DHR Health provides specialized care for scoliosis patients at its Orthopedic and Sports Therapy Institute, located at 515 E. Business Highway 83, Suite A, in Alamo, Texas. The clinic offers physical therapy and advanced surgical options through the Orthopedic Spine Center of Excellence, led by Dr. Jaime Villarreal. In June, during National Scoliosis Awareness Month, DHR Health emphasizes the importance of early detection and comprehensive care available locally. Dr. Villarreal focuses on personalized evaluations and treatments to alleviate pain and improve patients' quality of life, ensuring that residents do not need to travel far for their care.
HealthValley mom donates nearly 7 gallons of breast milk to help NICU babies
Alyssa Martinez, a new mother from the Rio Grande Valley, has donated nearly seven gallons of breast milk to help NICU babies. After giving birth to her son Matthew three months ago, she began pumping every three hours. Realizing she had excess milk, she chose to donate it to the WIC milk bank in San Benito instead of discarding it. The milk is sent to a bank in Austin for pasteurization before being distributed to hospitals statewide. Currently, only three mothers in Cameron County are registered donors, and health officials encourage more to participate to support vulnerable infants.
HealthStates Pressure Pharmacy Benefit Managers for Health Plans to Lower Prices
States across the U.S. are pushing for lower prescription drug prices by regulating pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), which control drug coverage for health insurers. These companies, including CVS, have spent millions to combat new regulations. In 2023, over 120 bills targeting PBMs were introduced in at least 26 states, with some laws limiting PBM compensation and requiring transparency. Tennessee's new law will prohibit PBMs from operating retail pharmacies by July 2028, leading CVS to file a federal lawsuit. Consumers express concern over medication affordability, with many reporting they have skipped doses due to costs, highlighting the ongoing debate about drug pricing and access.
HealthNew World Screwworm infection found north of Starr County
A New World Screwworm infection has been confirmed in Guerra, a city north of Starr County, according to Jim Hogg County Judge Juan Carlos Guerra. This case represents the 26th domestic occurrence of the infection in the United States and is the nearest to the Rio Grande Valley. The infection was identified in a cow, prompting local officials to take action to prevent further spread of the disease in the area.
HealthNew World screwworm case confirmed in Jim Hogg County, cases rise to 26
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A new case of New World Screwworm has been confirmed in Jim Hogg County, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The detection was confirmed on Friday in a domestic cattle, bringing the total number of cases of New World Screwworm to 26, according to the USDA confirmed detections map. According to
HealthMillions of Americans Lose Obamacare Coverage as Subsidies Expire and Costs Rise
In February, approximately 3 million fewer Americans had health insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) compared to the same time last year, according to federal data. The Department of Health and Human Services reported a 13% drop in enrollment, from 22.1 million in 2025 to 19.2 million this year. Analysts attribute this decline primarily to the expiration of federal subsidies on January 1, leading to increased costs that many could not afford. Experts predict that enrollment may continue to decrease, potentially dropping to around 17.5 million, as affordability remains a key concern for voters ahead of the November elections.
Health'We are vigilant': Gladys Porter Zoo works to prevent New World screwworm infestation
BROWNSVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — As concerns over the New World screwworm continue across South Texas, the Gladys Porter Zoo is taking extra precautions to protect its animals while assisting state officials in monitoring the pest. Zoo staff say they currently have no suspected cases of the New World screwworm on site, thanks to daily monitoring
HealthDHR Health talks treatment during Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A healthcare expert at DHR Health spoke with ValleyCentral to provide insight on brain diseases and treatment as Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month comes to a close. According to Dr. Roberto Alejandro Cruz, the neurology medical director at DHR Health, Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder characterized by abnormal protein
HealthBorder Report Live: How to prevent and keep pets safe from New World screwworm
Preventing pets from potentially fatal infections from New World screwworm is the most important course of action a pet owner on the Southwest border can take right now, veterinarian Dr. Rebecca Greenstein, medical advisor for the online pet-sitting and service group Rover, said on the latest episode of Border Report Live.
HealthWhy the First 72 Hours After Earthquakes Are Critical for Saving Lives
The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasized that the first 72 hours after earthquakes are crucial for locating victims trapped under rubble and saving lives. Ciro Ugarte, director of emergency health at the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), noted that hospitals in affected areas are already treating injuries such as fractures, head trauma, crush injuries, and burns resulting from building collapses. Immediate health priorities include managing large numbers of victims and trauma care, especially in regions with collapsed structures and ongoing search and rescue operations. Ugarte also stated that there are currently no restrictions affecting humanitarian aid to Venezuela, despite its fragile healthcare system.
HealthValley cattle families now need fresh health checks before livestock shows amid confirmed cases of screwworm
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed 20 cases of screwworm infections, primarily in the Hill Country and Big Bend areas, but none in the Rio Grande Valley. As a precaution, cattle families in the Valley must now provide health certificates for their livestock when attending shows. Resident Enrika Hinojosa noted that while health papers previously lasted 14 to 30 days, some shows now require a veterinary check within seven days of the event. An upcoming livestock show in Brenham, which began Wednesday, will have a veterinarian present on-site.
HealthPort Isabel vet warns pet owners about heat stroke risks this summer
A veterinarian from Port Isabel Animal Clinic is warning pet owners about the dangers of heat stroke as summer temperatures rise. Cases of heat stroke typically increase during this season, especially when pets are left in hot cars, lack shade or water, or spend too long in the sun. Symptoms include excessive panting, bright red gums, and vomiting. Short-nosed breeds like pugs and bulldogs are particularly vulnerable. Dr. Chelsea Berning advises that if a pet shows signs of overheating, owners should bring them indoors and cool them down with water. Additionally, owners should check the pavement temperature before walks to ensure it's safe for their pets.
HealthTexas officials say rodents and other small wildlife could be to blame for New World Screwworm infestations
Texas officials are investigating the origins of New World Screwworm infestations affecting livestock. The Texas Animal Health Commission suggests that small wildlife, including armadillos and opossums, may be responsible for the spread. While the USDA has previously linked the pest's arrival to illicit cattle movement, recent findings indicate no direct evidence of this connection. The first case in Texas was detected in LaPryor on June 3, 2024. Currently, there are 13 active cases in the state, with an average of 15 suspected cases reported daily. Farmers remain concerned about the potential for undetected infestations in their areas.
HealthDHR Health Brownsville to hold free weight loss education seminars
DHR Health in Brownsville is offering free weight loss education seminars aimed at helping individuals achieve their weight loss goals. Led by Dr. Angela Lomas, a bariatric surgeon, these sessions will provide valuable information for those struggling to lose weight for health or personal reasons. The seminars are part of the hospital's bariatric and metabolic institute initiative. Interested participants can watch a video for more details about the program and its benefits.
HealthNine Indicted in South Texas Over Massive Health Care Fraud
Nine individuals, including residents from the Houston area and one from Nevada, have been indicted for their involvement in health care fraud schemes totaling over $1 billion. The allegations include illegal drug diversion, fraudulent mental health services, and improper treatment of elderly patients. This action is part of a larger initiative by the Department of Justice aimed at combating health care fraud nationwide. The coordinated effort has led to charges against 455 defendants, including 90 medical professionals, and has resulted in the seizure of over $182 million in assets. The investigation involved multiple federal and state agencies.
HealthMission doctor sentenced for falsely diagnosing patients in health care fraud scheme released from prison
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A Mission doctor convicted of falsely diagnosing patients in a health care fraud scheme has been released from prison. Jorge Zamora-Quezada, 69, of Mission, was released from custody on Monday, according to the Bureau of Prisons' Office of Public Affairs. He still has to serve three years of supervised release, federal