2 New World screwworm quarantine areas lifted in Texas, congressman says

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has lifted quarantine restrictions for two previously listed "infested" zones in Texas where the New World screwworm had been found, a South Texas congressman says.

Hidalgo County to Launch Free Narcan Vending Machines Sept. 8 in Edinburg

Hidalgo County Health & Human Services is set to launch a free Narcan vending machine initiative on September 8 at 9 a.m. The kickoff event will take place at the Health & Human Services Administration building, located at 1304 S. 25th Ave. in Edinburg. Narcan, or naloxone, is a medication that can quickly reverse opioid overdoses. The vending machines will offer naloxone at no cost to the public. Representatives from various health organizations will discuss the importance of increasing access to naloxone and demonstrate how residents can use the vending machines to obtain it. Media interviews will follow the event.

Free Narcan Vending Machines to Be Installed in Hidalgo County

Hidalgo County health officials announced the launch of free Narcan vending machines to combat opioid overdoses. The event will take place on Tuesday, September 8, at 9:00 a.m., with one machine located at the Health and Human Services building in Edinburg. Narcan, or naloxone, is a medication that can quickly reverse opioid overdoses. The vending machines aim to increase access to this life-saving drug and support local efforts to prevent overdose deaths. Health authorities will also demonstrate how residents can obtain Narcan from these machines during the event.

STHS, Prominence Health to raise awareness about malnutrition

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — South Texas Health System and Prominence Health will hold a Senior Living Seminar on Friday to help raise awareness about malnutrition and healthy aging. The free educational seminar "Living with Malnutrition" will take place from 10 a.m. to noon in the Texas Room at STHS Edinburg, located at 1102 W. Trenton

Recalls, warning issued for popular squishy kids' toys over 'serious injury' risk

Federal authorities have warned that the beads within them could cause a child to choke or experience an intestinal obstruction.

Top US doctors offer updated flu and COVID vaccine recommendations, aiming to ease confusion

CR Investigation: PFAS in baby products

COVID-19, Flu, and RSV Vaccines: What Are the Latest Recommendations for Fall

The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) has released its vaccination recommendations for the fall, urging people of all ages to stay up to date with COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines to reduce the risk of severe illness during the respiratory virus season. The recommendations were developed in coordination with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) as part of the Vaccine Integrity Project. 'Vaccines are one of the greatest success stories in medicine. They prevent serious illness, reduce hospitalizations and long-term complications, and save lives,' said Dr. Sarah Nosal, president of the AAFP.

Thousands of Units of Chocolate Milk Withdrawn Due to Complaints of 'Unpleasant Odor'

More than 50,000 units of Horizon Organic chocolate milk distributed to grocery stores nationwide have been recalled. The company's decision came after consumers reported that some containers had an unpleasant appearance, taste, and odor. The brand indicated that they could be 'prematurely spoiled.' The popular Colorado-based brand, known for its recognizable red label, announced the voluntary recall on August 7. A compliance report from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also indicated that the product 'has the potential to be spoiled.' What products are included in the recall? Horizon Organic reported that the affected chocolate milks are: 12 and 18-count packages of 8-ounce shelf-stable chocolate milk at 1%. These packages were distributed to retailers across the U.S. The affected chocolate milks have the following 'Best By' dates and UPC codes: 12-count packages: Item 136990, UPC 742365002700, 'Best By' dates: January 30, 2027; January 31, 2027; February 1, 2027; February 2, 2027; and February 3, 2027. 18-count packages: Item 136917, UPC 742365208867, 'Best By' dates: January 31, 2027; February 1, 2027; February 2, 2027. Horizon stated that it received complaints from consumers who found the packaging to be 'bulging.' They also noted that the milk in the cartons could be subject to 'premature spoilage and may have an unpleasant taste, odor, and/or texture.' Horizon indicated that an investigation is underway to determine the cause. Anyone who purchased the product is advised to dispose of it. Customers should also keep their receipt and can contact Horizon for refunds.

Study Links Popular Sweetener to Increased Stroke Risk

A new study reveals that xylitol, a commonly used artificial sweetener found in numerous sugar-free candies, baked goods, nut butters, chewing gums, and even toothpaste, appears to be associated with serious cardiovascular events, including death or stroke. The study, published on August 26 by the European Society of Cardiology, was based on a long-term analysis of the effects of this additive, widely used to replace sugar in diets. While small amounts of this natural sugar alcohol are found in some foods, xylitol is often added in high quantities as an artificial sweetener to dozens of food, beverage, and dental products.

CBP Intensifies Fight Against the New World Screwworm in Texas

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other federal partners, is intensifying efforts to eradicate the New World screw-worm fly in Texas and New Mexico. This pest poses a serious threat to livestock, wildlife, pets, and occasionally humans. As of August 16, the USDA confirmed 47 cases, with 46 in Texas and one in New Mexico. CBP has facilitated the shipment of sterile flies from Panama to various airports in Texas to disrupt the pest's reproductive cycle. Authorities urge livestock owners to report any suspicious cases to animal health officials.

Serenity Suite Opens: A Dedicated Hub for Maternal Care and Learning

The McAllen Public Library (MPL) is set to open the Serenity Suite on September 1, 2026, located at 4001 N. 23rd St. This private space aims to support mothers by providing a comfortable environment for nursing or pumping while they access library programs and resources. Mayor Javier Villalobos emphasized the importance of community-oriented spaces, while MPL collaborates with Blooming with Grace Lactation Services to host a free monthly Breastfeeding Support Group. This initiative aims to assist mothers with breastfeeding challenges and enhance their overall experience at the library. For more details, visit mcallenlibrary.net or call 956-681-3010.

Child Fed Goats at Interactive Zoo; Now Must Get Rabies Vaccine

Last Friday, Rebecca Lanning received a shocking phone call: her 4-year-old son had been exposed to rabies during a recent family outing. Thirteen days earlier, on August 15, the family had visited a dinosaur exhibit in Mocksville, North Carolina. There were food trucks, carnival games, and an interactive zoo, where her son fed some baby goats by hand. 'I didn't think anything of it until Friday, when his aunt called me and said, 'Hey, we have a situation,'' said Lanning, 30, a resident of Marion. Lanning requested that her son's name not be disclosed. Three baby goats from the interactive zoo tested positive for rabies, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced on Friday. The goats, along with a fourth animal suspected of having the disease, were euthanized.

Following COVID surge, San Perlita ISD urges parents to keep sick students home

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — After a two-day district-wide shutdown due to a surge in COVID-19 cases and other illnesses, the San Perlita Independent School District is urging parents to keep their sick children home. In a letter sent Friday, San Perlita ISD said children with symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, or

How Lindsay Clancy Sought Help Before Killing Her Three Children

In the months leading up to the tragic deaths of her three children, Lindsay Clancy sought help for her mental health struggles. She consulted psychiatrists, called a suicide hotline, and visited emergency rooms, but was denied inpatient psychiatric treatment. Over four months, she was prescribed 13 different medications to address her persistent symptoms. Clancy, 36, is accused of murdering her children on January 24, 2023, in Massachusetts, before attempting suicide. During her trial, prosecutors presented evidence suggesting premeditation, while the defense argued she suffered from postpartum psychosis, a severe mental health condition. The jury began deliberating after closing arguments.

FDA Greenlights Emergency Generic Drug to Halt New World Screwworm in Cattle

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Bimectin (ivermectin) injection to prevent New World screwworm (NWS) infestations in cattle. This treatment is effective when administered within 24 hours of birth, during castration, or when wounds appear. However, it is not approved for lactating dairy cows or calves intended for veal. The FDA emphasizes the importance of following a 35-day withdrawal period before slaughter to ensure food safety. Bimectin is available over the counter and is a generic alternative to Ivomec, which was previously authorized for similar use.

Texas and Two Other States Join Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Lettuce

Health officials have confirmed a parasitic illness outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce in 20 U.S. states, including Texas, Georgia, and Tennessee. The FDA reported that the number of infected individuals has risen to 11,458, up from 10,900 last week. Investigations focus on lettuce from a farm in central Mexico operated by Taylor Farms. The FDA continues inspections in collaboration with Mexican authorities, assuring that all affected iceberg lettuce is no longer available for sale. Cyclospora, the parasite responsible, causes watery diarrhea and is more common in late spring and summer. This year, nearly 29,000 cases have been reported in the U.S.

Diseases and Injuries That Increase During Heat Waves, According to Study

A recent study from Northwestern University analyzed over 916,000 emergency room visits in Chicago from 2011 to 2023, revealing a significant increase in various health issues during heat waves. Conditions such as accidental gunshot wounds, kidney problems, skin conditions, and mental health issues related to marijuana use surged when temperatures exceeded 33.7°C (92.6°F). The research highlights the underestimated health risks linked to heat exposure, with some injuries more than tripling in frequency. Experts emphasize the need for public awareness regarding heat-related health risks, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions. The study underscores the broader implications of climate change on public health.

DHR Health Raises Over $520K at 20th “Fishing for Hope” Event

DHR Health's 20th Annual Fishing for Hope Tournament, held on August 22 at Jim’s Pier in South Padre Island, raised $524,130 for the Hope Family Health Center in McAllen. This funding will aid the clinic in providing essential medical services to uninsured and underserved individuals in the Rio Grande Valley. DHR Health employees contributed over $160,000, with the Radiology, Lab, and Business Office departments recognized for their top fundraising efforts. The event, which has grown significantly over the years, also featured fishing competitions and an auction. Plans for the 21st tournament are already underway.