Health
Health news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
HealthTarget Recalls Baby Wipes Due to Risk of Serious Infection
Popular baby wipes sold at Target are being recalled after several customers reported 'discoloration,' leading to tests that found bacterial contamination that could cause potentially 'deadly' infections. The voluntary recall affects Target's Up & Up baby wipes; both fragrance-free and cucumber-scented varieties are included in the list of products that the retailer advises customers to 'stop using immediately.' According to the recall notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), tests detected the presence of the Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli in samples of the product. 'Using products contaminated with the Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli can lead to serious and potentially fatal infections,' the notice states. 'These products are primarily used on newborns, infants, and toddlers, who are particularly vulnerable to opportunistic infections due to their immature immune systems. In healthy individuals, using the product on skin with minor lesions is more likely to result in localized infections, while in immunocompromised individuals, newborns, infants, and toddlers, the infection is more likely to spread to the bloodstream, potentially leading to sepsis or pneumonia.' Target stated that the recalled wipes were manufactured by a supplier identified as Sapro Temizlik Urunleri but were sold in Target stores nationwide and online. The company said the recall was issued voluntarily 'out of an abundance of caution,' although it noted there have been several 'consumer complaints and reports of adverse events.' Reports included reactions such as skin irritation, eye irritation, and infections potentially related to the wipes. 'These reports are still under investigation. Target is coordinating with the manufacturer and continues to investigate this matter,' the recall notice indicated.
HealthUSDA Confirms Four Cases of Cattle Fever Tick in Texas
The USDA has confirmed four cases of the New World Screwworm in Texas, with two new cases reported in La Salle and Andrews counties. The affected animals include a calf in La Salle, located about 100 miles south of San Antonio, and a dog in Andrews, which is near the New Mexico border and recently traveled from Mexico. In response, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to Level II to address this threat. Residents who suspect the presence of the screwworm are urged to contact the Texas Animal Health Commission or the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
HealthUSDA Confirms Four Cases of Cattle Fever Tick in Texas
HOUSTON – The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed on Monday that there are now four cases of the cattle fever tick in Texas. The two new cases add to one identified by Texas authorities over the weekend. According to plant health officials, the two new cases were reported in La Salle and Andrews counties. In La Salle County, located about 100 miles south of San Antonio, the infested animal was a calf, while in Andrews County, near the New Mexico border, the affected animal was a dog that had reportedly been in Mexico recently. 'In the past week, the Department of Agriculture has identified and addressed four cases of the new cattle fever tick swiftly,' said Dudley Hoskins, Deputy Secretary of Agriculture for Marketing and Regulatory Programs. In response to this situation, Texas Governor Greg Abbott ordered the activation of the Emergency Operations Center to level 2, which outlines a scaled response to a threat like the cattle fever tick. 'I have activated the full use of state resources to respond to the threat of the cattle fever tick,' the governor said in a statement, adding that protecting our ranchers, deer breeders, animal producers, and the Texas economy from this pest is a priority.
HealthSoccer Player Who Suffered Cardiac Arrest During Match in 2021 Collapses Again on the Field
Christian Eriksen collapsed during an international friendly match between Denmark and Ukraine at Nature Energy Park in Odense. The incident occurred in the 65th minute, echoing his previous cardiac arrest during the 2021 European Championship. Fortunately, Eriksen was conscious and received medical attention on the field. Team doctor Morten Boesen confirmed that Eriksen was stable and requested to send greetings to his teammates. The match was suspended at 79 minutes with Denmark leading 2-1. Eriksen, who returned to professional football after being fitted with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, is under further medical evaluation. Neither team qualified for the World Cup.
Health'Morning checks are going to be more thorough': Ranchers on alert for screwworms
PHARR, Texas (ValleyCentral) — South Texas ranchers are stepping up inspections and preventive measures after New World screwworm cases were recently confirmed in Texas, raising concerns among livestock producers across the region. While state and federal officials continue working to contain the pest, local ranchers say early detection and quick reporting will be key to
HealthSafe Summer Expo aims to reduce kids’ injuries in South Texas
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — South Texas Health System Children’s held its third annual Safe Summer Expo to provide safety strategies to help kids stay safe during the summer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is a significant spike in pediatric emergency room visits nationwide between June and August. According to an STHS
Second screwworm case in Texas confirmed, as Abbott expands state disaster declaration
The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed a second case of New World screwworm in Zavala County, prompting Governor Greg Abbott to expand a statewide disaster declaration. The new case was identified in a calf just 5.6 miles from the first case. In response, Abbott authorized the use of all state resources to combat the infestation, including the construction of a facility to produce sterile flies aimed at disrupting the screwworm's reproduction cycle. The USDA has established a 20-kilometer infested zone and is working with local partners to manage the outbreak, which could potentially cause $1.8 billion in economic damage to Texas.
Gov. Abbott fast tracks sterile fly facility in Edinburg to combat screwworm
Governor Greg Abbott is intensifying efforts to protect Texas livestock from the New World Screwworm by fast-tracking an $800 million sterile fly breeding facility at Moore Air Base near Edinburg. This initiative follows a disaster declaration expansion aimed at preventing the parasite's spread, which threatens the state's $15 billion cattle industry. A confirmed screwworm case was reported in a calf in La Pryor, prompting officials to treat the animal and inspect its herd. Texas A&M will deploy fly testing facilities, and residents are urged to monitor pets for wounds and report any suspicious cases to the Texas Animal Health Commission.
HealthUSDA confirms second case of New World Screwworm in South Texas
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The United States Department of Agriculture has confirmed a second detection of New World Screwworm in Zavala County. According to the USDA, the detection was confirmed on Friday on a domestic cattle. A post from the New World Screwworm Rapid Response page claims the second case comes from a one-month-old calf approximately
HealthValley Baptist Health System hosting cereal drive
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — With students out for summer vacation, Valley Baptist Health System is partnering with the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley to provide hungry children and adults with a healthy breakfast. The cereal drive is taking place from June 8 through June 18. "When it comes to our children, I feel
Valley ranchers on alert as screwworm risk grows
Ranchers in the Rio Grande Valley are on high alert due to the proximity of New World screwworm cases in Uvalde County. Although no cases have been confirmed in Hidalgo County, local officials are coordinating with state and federal agencies to monitor the situation. Veterinarian Lucas Hinojosa recalls past outbreaks that severely affected cattle, leading to significant losses. Ranchers are advised to inspect their livestock daily for wounds and report any concerns to the Texas Animal Health Commission. The USDA is implementing measures, including quarantines and the release of sterile flies, to prevent the screwworm's spread. Public vigilance is crucial.
HealthSecond Case of Screwworm Confirmed in South Texas
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department reported the detection of a second case of the New World Screwworm. The finding was in Zavala County, about 100 miles southwest of San Antonio, involving a 30-day-old calf with an umbilical injury, according to a statement released Friday night. They are collaborating with the Texas Animal Health Commission, the Department of Agriculture, and other agencies to address the situation. They emphasized that early detection is crucial and it's important to report any suspicion of infestation in live animals. This is a developing story; check back for updates.
HealthDHR Health Ophthalmologist Shares Facts about Cataracts
During Cataract Awareness Month, Dr. Jorge Montes, an ophthalmologist at DHR Health Eye Institute in McAllen, is raising awareness about cataracts. This eye condition affects around 24 million Americans, leading to cloudy and dim vision, especially in older adults. Dr. Montes emphasizes that nearly 70% of people will develop cataracts by age 75 due to natural aging processes. He encourages individuals experiencing vision changes to consult with an ophthalmologist for safe and effective treatment options, including corrective surgery. For appointments, contact DHR Health at (956) 362-2070.
Health'We're not prepared': Texas agriculture commissioner warns as New World Screwworm reaches state
MISSION, Texas (ValleyCentral) — State and federal officials continue ramping up efforts to prevent the spread of the New World screwworm after an infested calf was recently discovered in La Pryor, marking the pest's arrival in Texas. The infected calf was found about 200 miles north of McAllen, prompting increased surveillance and control measures across
HealthCameron County Monitors Screwworm Threat After Zavala County Detection
The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed the first case of New World Screwworm (NWS) in the U.S. on June 3, 2026, after an infected calf was found in Zavala County, Texas. In response, officials are establishing an infested zone and conducting surveillance to prevent the spread of this pest, which can affect livestock and pets. Although Zavala County is about 300 miles from Cameron County, local officials are coordinating with state and federal agencies to ensure readiness. Residents are urged to monitor animals for signs of infection and report any suspected cases to the Texas Animal Health Commission.
HealthTexas A&M AgriLife Responds After New World Screwworm found in Texas
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is mobilizing resources following the detection of the New World screwworm in a calf in Zavala County on June 3. Experts emphasize the importance of awareness and education to mitigate the pest's impact on livestock and wildlife. They are providing training, fact sheets, and guidance for livestock producers, veterinarians, and families. The New World screwworm poses serious risks as its larvae feed on living tissue. AgriLife has created materials in both English and Spanish to help Texans identify and report infestations early, which is crucial for controlling the pest's spread.
What to know about screwworm in Texas
The first case of New World screwworm in the U.S. was confirmed in South Texas on June 3, originating from a calf in La Pryor, Zavala County. The USDA has activated personnel to monitor the situation, emphasizing that while screwworms do not directly affect food supply chains, they could cause $1.8 billion in damage to Texas' cattle industry. The screwworm lays eggs in living flesh, leading to severe tissue damage. The USDA has implemented a quarantine zone and is collaborating with Mexican officials to eradicate the pest using sterile fly techniques. Ranchers are urged to monitor livestock for signs of infestation.
HealthHidalgo County Monitors Flesh-Eating Screwworm Threat After Texas Case
Hidalgo County is actively monitoring the New World screwworm situation following its detection in Zavala County. Judge Richard Cortez stated there are currently no cases in Hidalgo County, but officials are collaborating with the Texas Animal Health Commission and the Texas Department of State Health Services to prepare for any potential incidents. Coordination with neighboring counties is also underway. The USDA reported the screwworm was found in a calf, prompting immediate response measures including quarantines and increased surveillance. Residents are urged to report any unusual animal wounds. There is no current threat to the food supply.
HealthPaxton Launches Probe Into Celsius Energy Drinks Over Caffeine Levels and the Dangers to Children
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated an investigation into Celsius Holdings, Inc. due to concerns over the caffeine levels in its energy drinks marketed to children and teens. The investigation follows the tragic death of a 17-year-old from Weslaco, Texas, whose family claims excessive caffeine consumption from Alani Nu, a Celsius product, contributed to her death. Each 12-ounce can of Alani Nu contains 200 mg of caffeine, a level deemed dangerous for minors. The investigation will assess whether Celsius misled consumers about the safety of its products, potentially violating Texas trade laws.
