Health
Health news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
HealthAfter Rain, Valley Authorities Strengthen Mosquito Prevention Efforts
The City of San Juan announced a mosquito spraying campaign from June 22 to 25, aimed at controlling mosquito populations following recent rains. The spraying will take place on both the north and south sides of the city, starting daily at 2:00 a.m., weather permitting. Residents are advised to eliminate standing water by emptying containers, cleaning gutters, and changing pet water daily. Additionally, the Cameron County Public Health Department is offering one free can of insect repellent per household, available for pickup at 1390 W. Expressway 83, San Benito Annex, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, call (956) 223-2330.
HealthMisinformation About Sunscreen Thrives on TikTok; Here’s the Truth Behind the Videos
Sunscreen is toxic, cancer-causing, and unnecessarily blocks the health benefits of sun exposure... A study has found that videos with false information about sunscreens have a legion of followers on the social media platform TikTok. The study, which analyzed nearly 1,000 TikTok videos about sunscreens and is published this Thursday in PLOS Digital Health, reveals that while most promote sunscreen use, they do not generate the most interaction. Attention is drawn to those spreading misinformation. This misinformation about such an effective preventive tool as sunscreens occurs in a context where skin cancer rates are rising globally. Public health organizations have long expressed concern about the trend of misinformation regarding sunscreen on TikTok, one of the most widely used social media platforms in the world, especially among young people. A team of researchers led by Alessandro Marcon from the University of Alberta (Canada) analyzed the content of the 971 most viewed TikTok videos across the five most popular hashtags related to sunscreen (#sunscreen, #sunscreenviral, #spf, #sunscreenreview, and #sunprotection). The videos were classified based on their promotion of sunscreen, health-related criticisms, and audience interaction metrics such as views, likes, shares, and comments. The researchers found that the vast majority of the videos included in the study promoted the use of sunscreens (86.8%), while only 6% contained false criticisms, such as being harmful (1.5%) or preventing health benefits like vitamin D absorption (1.2%). Despite this small proportion, the videos focused on criticism generated significantly higher audience engagement in likes, shares, and comments compared to videos that did not contain misinformation. Additionally, the authors note that videos without false information, which are generally exclusively promotional of brands, represent 'a missed opportunity for public health,' as the content focuses on cosmetic benefits, with only 6% explicitly mentioning the reduction of cancer risk. Regarding TikTok content creators, they often promote sunscreen as part of skincare routines, where the benefits of sunscreen are more related to beauty than health. 'The misinformation about sunscreens on TikTok is a cause for concern due to the strong resonance of some misconceptions about their use among specific audiences, such as young people,' the authors state. 'Our analysis shows that TikTok is not necessarily flooded with misinformation about sunscreens, but videos that spread lies such as sunscreens being harmful or unnecessary receive comparatively high levels of audience interaction,' they emphasize.
HealthStray animals at higher risk as screwworm spreads to Hill Country ranches
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has reported 11 active cases of screwworm, with the latest detected about 60 miles northeast of Del Rio, affecting cattle and goats. The Texas A&M Veterinary Emergency Team has been dispatched to assist the Texas Animal Health Commission in the Hill Country, which shares similarities with the Rio Grande Valley in terms of ranches and animal populations. Dr. Deb Zoran, director of the team, highlighted the increased risk for stray animals in these areas. Residents in quarantine zones must have their animals inspected before leaving to prevent the spread of the parasite.
HealthShe going to be alive with other people: Organ donation from 25-year-old Brownsville woman gives life to others
A Brownsville mother mourns her 25-year-old daughter, Aurora 'Ruby,' who died in a car accident in March 2026. In her grief, Marisol Guerrero chose to donate Ruby's organs, which have since given life to six individuals. Ruby's heart, lungs, kidneys, and liver are now sustaining others, allowing her spirit to live on. Her stepfather, Javier Garcia, expressed hope that they will hear her heartbeat in someone else. Paola Cepeda from the Texas Organ Sharing Alliance emphasized the importance of Ruby's donation, encouraging more families in the Valley to consider organ donation. A registration drive for organ donors is scheduled for June 19 in Weslaco.
HealthConsumer Reports: Give your pet a flea-free summer
Pet owners are urged to act quickly to prevent flea infestations, which can start with a pet's scratching and quickly spread throughout the home. Veterinarian Dr. Megan Moore warns that flea bites can cause allergic reactions in pets, leading to itching and skin irritation. To combat fleas, start by bathing your pet with a mild soap, then use a metal flea comb to remove any remaining fleas. Regular vacuuming of carpets and washing pet bedding in hot water are also recommended. Keeping outdoor areas tidy can deter fleas, and veterinarians can suggest preventive treatments tailored to your pet's needs.
HealthA Texas man waited over two years for a kidney. He wants others to sign up as organ donors.
In Texas, over 10,000 individuals are currently on the waiting list for organ donations, with wait times reaching up to five years. Victor Blanco, who spent more than two years on dialysis, recently received a kidney transplant. He recalls the moment he learned about his kidney failure and emphasizes the importance of organ donation. To encourage more people to register as donors, Channel 5 News is collaborating with the Texas Organ Sharing Alliance for a registration event on June 19 at their Weslaco location. Online registration for organ donation is also available.
HealthCameron County Public Health giving out free mosquito spray
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — After recent rainy days, mosquitoes are coming out. To help residents protect themselves from bites, the Cameron County Public Health is providing free bug spray while supplies last. The department will distribute the bug spray at the San Benito Annex located at 1390 W. Expressway 83, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.
HealthI was excited for him to have his life back: Woman donates kidney to her father
Rachel Quigley donated a kidney to her father, Brian Quigley, who struggled with high blood pressure and diabetes for over 25 years, leading to kidney failure. After learning he needed a second transplant in 2024, Rachel stepped forward to help. More than a year later, Brian has regained his energy and enjoys activities like grilling and golfing without needing dialysis. Rachel reports no negative health impacts from the donation and emphasizes the importance of organ donation, dispelling myths about the process. Channel 5 News is collaborating with the Texas Organ Sharing Alliance for a registration drive for organ donors on June 19 in Weslaco.
HealthUSDA has new partners in the fight against screwworm drones, dogs and fungi
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is intensifying its efforts to combat the New World Screwworm by introducing innovative strategies, including AI drones for wildlife monitoring and funding 40 research projects through a new grant program. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins announced potential collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security for drone deployment. Although screwworm has not been detected in U.S. wildlife, it poses a significant threat to the cattle industry. The USDA's Grand Challenge initiative has allocated $105 million to researchers for solutions, including sterile fly production and insect-killing fungi. Five Texas universities are among the recipients of these grants.
HealthI was excited for him to have his life back: Valley woman donates kidney to her father
Rachel Quigley, a Valley resident, donated a kidney to her father, Brian Quigley, who had been battling high blood pressure and diabetes for over 25 years, leading to kidney failure. After learning in 2024 that he needed a second transplant, Rachel stepped forward to help. More than a year after the surgery, Brian has regained his health, enjoying activities like grilling and golfing without the need for dialysis. Rachel reports no negative health impacts from the donation and emphasizes the importance of organ donation, dispelling myths about the process. An organ donation registration drive is scheduled for June 19 in Weslaco.
HealthBorder Report Live: Feds focus on wildlife as New World screwworm cases increase in US
There are a dozen cases of New World screwworm in the United States in two Southwest border states, and federal authorities are concerned that wildlife could spread the deadly parasites and are stepping up efforts to stop it, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said Monday.
HealthDHR Health Physician Educates Community on Obesity Prevention, Healthy Living, and Preventive Care
Dr. Roque Mifuji, a board-certified internal medicine and obesity medicine specialist at DHR Health, recently provided health education to employees of Lone Star National Bank and members of the Edinburg Rotary Club. He highlighted the health risks associated with obesity and overweight conditions, discussing their impact on overall health. Dr. Mifuji emphasized the importance of preventive care, advocating for regular health screenings and vaccinations. He also shared strategies for maintaining a healthy lifestyle through proper nutrition and physical activity, reinforcing DHR Health's commitment to community wellness and education in Edinburg, Texas.
HealthAlfredo sauce recalled in 41 states due to possible salmonella contamination
The Coffee Connexion Co. has recalled Alfredo sauce in 41 states due to potential salmonella contamination, according to the FDA. The recall affects 913 cases containing 12 bags of three-pound polyethylene-packaged sauce, with UPC code 0039954921963. The affected lots are 0126, 0476, 0686, and 1106, with expiration dates ranging from January 12, 2028, to April 20, 2028. The states impacted include Texas, California, Florida, and others. The FDA has classified this as a Class I recall, indicating a reasonable probability of serious health consequences or death. The recall was initially issued in May and remains in effect.
HealthWhere is screwworm in Texas? Track cases here.
The New World screwworm has been detected in a calf in Zavala County, Texas, raising concerns for the state's $41 billion cattle industry. The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed the case on June 3, 2026, and subsequent infestations have been reported. Nearly 28,000 cases have been identified in Mexico since late 2024. In response, officials are enhancing animal surveillance and restricting movement from infested areas. The screwworm, a parasitic fly, can cause severe damage to livestock and is a threat to all mammals, including pets. Early treatment for wounds is crucial to prevent infestation.
HealthNara Organics recalls baby formula sold at Target after botulism outbreak
Nara Organics has recalled its organic infant formula sold at Target and online due to a reported outbreak of infant botulism in several states. Three infants aged 2 to 5 months were hospitalized in California, Pennsylvania, and Washington after consuming the Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula. The FDA has stated that the formula accounts for less than 1% of all infant formulas sold in the U.S., alleviating concerns about a shortage. The CDC advises parents to stop using the product immediately and monitor their babies for symptoms, which require urgent medical attention.
HealthVanessa Trump, Donald Trump's former daughter-in-law, begins second phase of cancer treatment
Vanessa Trump, the 48-year-old ex-daughter-in-law of Donald Trump, announced on Instagram that she is beginning the second phase of her breast cancer treatment after recovering from surgery for the past four weeks. She first revealed her diagnosis in May and expressed gratitude for her healing progress. Trump, who has five children, did not disclose the specific type of breast cancer or details about her upcoming treatment phase. Medical professionals are increasingly urging younger women to monitor their health due to rising breast cancer rates among women under 50 in the U.S.
HealthFDA Fast-Tracks OTC Generic Pill Nitenpyram to Fight Deadly Screwworm in Pets
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Emergency Use Authorization for generic Nitenpyram Tablets to treat New World screwworm infestations in pets, including dogs and cats over four weeks old and weighing at least two pounds. This marks the first generic animal drug approved for this purpose. U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. emphasized the government's commitment to eradicating this pest. Nitenpyram acts quickly to kill larvae, but does not prevent reinfestation. The tablets are available over the counter in two sizes, and pet owners are advised to consult veterinarians for proper care.
HealthUSDA releases sterile flies near Uvalde to fight screwworm spread
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has released sterile flies at a ranch in La Pryor, near Uvalde, to combat the spread of screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite. Currently, there are seven active cases in the U.S., with six in Texas and one in New Mexico. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that staffing has increased by over 1,000%, and since February, 142 million sterile flies have been released in Texas. The USDA advises pet owners and farmers to monitor their animals for wounds or lesions and to report any suspected infections immediately.
HealthScrewworm was found in a dog in Texas. What does that mean for your pets?
The New World screwworm has been confirmed in Texas, with six cases reported in the state and one in New Mexico. This parasitic fly targets open wounds on warm-blooded animals, including pets, laying eggs that hatch into maggots. Symptoms of infestation include discomfort, foul-smelling discharge, and unusual behavior in pets. Veterinarians emphasize that the condition is treatable if caught early, with specific medications available. Pet owners are advised to monitor their animals closely for wounds and maintain good hygiene. Local officials are actively working on containment measures, including releasing sterile flies to control the population.