Health
Health news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
HealthFDA Clarifies: Taylor Farms Remains Under Investigation for Cyclospora Outbreak
Taylor Farms is still under investigation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the growing Cyclospora outbreak, despite a false positive result in a test, the agency reported on Monday. Late Sunday, the FDA stated that a sample of the company's lettuce had falsely tested positive for Cyclospora, the parasite that causes the illness. However, that sample did not come from the lettuce already implicated in the outbreak and market withdrawal. Instead, it was from a different shipment that the agency collected during routine import inspections. 'To clarify, this lab sample with a false positive does NOT change the basis of the ongoing FDA investigation into the outbreak or the strong epidemiological data supporting the current voluntary recall by Taylor Farms,' the FDA said on Monday on X. The voluntary recall of shredded iceberg lettuce from the company in 27 states remains in effect.
HealthFDA says positive Cyclospora test linked to lettuce outbreak was false alarm
On Saturday, the agency had stated the sample of lettuce had tested positive for cyclospora.
HealthHow many cups of coffee can you safely drink in a day? This is what a study says
Consuming up to five cups of American coffee a day is safe for health and is associated with a lower cardiovascular risk, such as heart failure or stroke, according to a scientific statement from the American Heart Association published on Monday in the journal Circulation. The text is based on coffee measures and habits in the United States, where a cup contains about 250 milliliters of liquid. In Europe, where coffee is consumed more concentrated with less water, the safe cups of coffee for health would correspond to those made with 225 milligrams. The authors indicate that up to 400 milligrams of 'healthy' caffeine per day would be 'safe' and 'seems to be related to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease in some people.' This 'healthy' caffeine from coffee is not comparable to that found in sodas and/or energy drinks, which can increase the risk of high blood pressure or arrhythmia. The authors note that previous studies suggest that the bioactive compounds in coffee may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which could help explain some health benefits. Among other things, consuming caffeinated coffee without added sugars, flavorings, or cream is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, or heart failure. Randomized trials, the most rigorous and reliable study design, have shown that caffeine consumption in coffee is associated with a lower risk of atrial fibrillation, but also with a higher risk of premature ventricular contractions. Adding sugar, flavored syrups, milk, and/or cream to coffee likely reduces its potential health benefits. There are also randomized clinical trials concluding that cafestol, a component present in both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee, is related to higher levels of low-density lipoproteins (also known as 'bad' cholesterol). Cafestol is present in unfiltered coffee (such as espresso, French press coffee, Turkish coffee, or boiled coffee), but not in coffee prepared with paper filters or instant coffee. While coffee is the main source of caffeine for most adults, tea, chocolate, sodas, energy drinks, and some medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, also contribute to total caffeine intake. How does caffeine affect the body? Caffeine consumed in coffee is metabolized in the liver and generally reaches its peak concentration in most people within an hour. The speed at which each person metabolizes caffeine depends on their genetics, metabolism, age, and prior caffeine consumption. When caffeinated coffee is consumed regularly, some people may develop tolerance to higher levels of caffeine. Others may experience more intense effects with the same amount of caffeine. Short-term effects of caffeine can include temporary increases in blood pressure, heart rate, blood sugar, and alertness, although some people may experience palpitations and sleep disturbances. According to the scientific statement, more research is needed to better understand the impact of caffeine on the body, how different sources of caffeine affect heart health, and how its impact may vary among different individuals.
HealthFDA Rules Out Positive Test for Taylor Farms Lettuce Linked to Cyclospora
The FDA announced that a sample of lettuce from Taylor Farms, which initially tested positive for Cyclospora linked to an ongoing outbreak, was a false positive. Taylor Fresh Foods had previously issued a voluntary recall of all iceberg lettuce from central Mexico due to the parasitic illness causing gastrointestinal symptoms. The FDA confirmed that laboratory experts reviewed the sample results and determined the initial finding was incorrect. As of Sunday, there are no confirmed positive results from products tested. Meanwhile, Taco Bell has temporarily removed potentially affected lettuce from its supply chain in several states, emphasizing shared responsibility for public health.
HealthNew World Screwworm found in calf in the Valley
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Starr County officials have confirmed its first screwworm case in the western area of Starr County. Starr County Emergency Management spokesman Lenny Fuentes said the larvae was found in a baby calf. According to a social media post, Starr County officials say they are working closely with the Texas Animal Health Commission and other
HealthTarget recalls over 200,000 pairs of children's sandals due to 'risk of serious injury or death'
Target has announced a recall of over 200,000 pairs of its Cat & Jack children's sandals due to potential choking hazards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warned that decorative pearls on the sandals could detach, posing a serious risk of injury or death. The recall affects beige sandals sold online and in stores from January to May 2026, priced at approximately $22. Target has received 23 reports of pearls coming off but no injuries have been reported. Consumers are advised to stop using the sandals immediately and contact Target for a full refund.
HealthMission doctor convicted of misdiagnosing thousands of patients seeking to have sentence vacated
Jorge Zamora-Quezada, a rheumatologist from Mission, TX, convicted of misdiagnosing thousands of patients in a $240 million healthcare fraud scheme, is seeking to vacate his sentence. After serving one year of a ten-year sentence, he filed a motion on July 1, arguing that new medical evidence shows the government’s claims were incorrect. He contends that modern diagnostic criteria support his patients' diagnoses of rheumatism and related autoimmune diseases. Additionally, the Texas Medical Board cleared him of wrongdoing. Zamora-Quezada is requesting a new trial if his conviction is not vacated. Prosecutors have 45 days to respond to his motion.
HealthBinational Summit to Halt Flesh-Eating Screwworm Outbreak Convened in New Mexico
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller attended a New World Screwworm (NWS) Summit in Santa Teresa, New Mexico, alongside federal, state, and industry leaders. The summit focused on urgent actions to combat the NWS, which poses a threat to livestock, wildlife, and the economy. Participants from the U.S. and Mexico discussed strategies for surveillance and eradication, emphasizing the need for cooperation across borders. Miller advocated for the use of the Screwworm Adult Suppression System (SWASS) and called for enhanced communication and coordination among agencies. The meeting concluded with a commitment to utilize all available resources to address the NWS threat effectively.
HealthTaylor Farms Recalls Iceberg Lettuce Due to Cyclosporiasis Outbreak
Taylor Fresh Foods announced on Friday that it would voluntarily recall all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico from the U.S. market. This recall comes amid a growing outbreak of cyclosporiasis—a gastrointestinal infection that causes weeks of severe diarrhea—linked by federal health authorities to lettuce served at certain Taco Bell restaurants. Taylor Fresh Foods stated that the action was prompted by information provided by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 'While the FDA tracing points to a specific independent farm—representing less than 1% of the iceberg lettuce supply in the U.S.—as the potential source of the outbreak, we have indefinitely removed all iceberg lettuce from that region,' the statement read. 'No other Taylor Fresh Foods products in the country have been affected.' Earlier on Friday, the FDA issued an alert: 'Do not consume chopped iceberg lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.' It remains unclear if Taylor Farms products could be related to cases in other states affected by outbreaks. Health authorities have indicated that multiple ongoing outbreaks are likely in at least 34 states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported on Friday morning via an email statement that chopped lettuce sold in supermarkets or served in other restaurants has not been affected. Nationwide, nearly 7,000 people may have contracted the gastrointestinal infection that causes weeks of severe diarrhea. As of Friday, the CDC had confirmed 1,644 of those cases and was investigating over 5,000 additional ones. No deaths have been reported. In an email statement on Thursday, Taco Bell reported that it had voluntarily removed the lettuce suspected of being linked to the outbreak from its national supply chain indefinitely and would replace it in selected states over the course of the following day. The company did not mention Taylor Farms in its statement but asserted that it believes 'public health is a shared responsibility among restaurants, their suppliers, and authorities; we take pride in having always acted quickly and proactively to protect our customers,' according to the text. 'We encourage all relevant restaurants, retailers, and food service operators to do the same.' The link between Taylor Farms and the outbreak was initially reported by the Washington Post. Michigan has been the most affected state, with 5,002 reported cases as of Friday. (CDC figures often lag behind those of the states.) The state health department reported that 102 people in Michigan have required hospitalization. Michigan health authorities had previously pointed to lettuce and salad greens as a potential source, based on over 1,000 interviews with individuals who tested positive. Since then, the health department has conducted 2,025 such interviews. Not all individuals who fell ill in Michigan reported eating at a Taco Bell. 'Many did not report consuming lettuce at a chain restaurant or other food establishment. However, lettuce continued to appear frequently in food questionnaires, even in cases without exposure to restaurants or fast food,' the Michigan Department of Health noted in a statement on Friday. Identifying the source of the outbreak has proven difficult, as the incubation period required for the parasite to make a person ill can extend up to two weeks. This is not the first time Taylor Farms has been linked to a cyclosporiasis outbreak. In 2013, health authorities concluded that 631 people in 25 states fell ill due to a salad mix associated with the company. Many cases occurred in Iowa and Nebraska among individuals who had dined at Olive Garden and Red Lobster. It was ultimately determined that the outbreak originated from a salad mix produced at a Taylor Farms processing plant in Mexico. Health authorities also determined that Taylor Farms was behind an E. coli outbreak in 2024, linked to sliced onions used in McDonald's Quarter Pounder burgers. According to the FDA, 104 people fell ill in 14 states during that outbreak. Nearly three dozen were hospitalized, and four individuals—including at least one child—developed severe kidney problems. One person, an elderly adult from Colorado, died. This article was originally published in English by Erika Edwards and Sara G. Miller for our sister network NBC News. The note was translated with the help of an artificial intelligence tool. An editor from Telemundo Digital reviewed the translation.
HealthFDA Investigates Iceberg Lettuce Supplier as Possible Source of Cyclosporiasis Outbreak
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating Iceberg lettuce supplied to Taco Bell by Taylor Farms as a possible source of a growing cyclosporiasis outbreak in four Midwestern states; this is a stomach infection that causes weeks of severe diarrhea, according to a person familiar with the investigation. Nationwide, nearly 7,000 people may have fallen ill; of these, 1,645 cases have been confirmed and more than 5,100 remain under investigation, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. No deaths have been reported. Earlier this week, the CDC announced an investigation into more than 400 cases in Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky. The possible origin of the outbreak was initially reported by the Washington Post. Taylor Farms and Yum Brands, the parent company of Taco Bell, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. It is unlikely that the Midwestern outbreak accounts for all cases in the country. Experts noted that there could be multiple outbreaks from different sources.
HealthMexico Issues Travel Advisory Due to Cyclospora Outbreak in the United States
The Mexican Ministry of Health has issued a preventive travel advisory for individuals planning to travel to the United States due to a multistate outbreak of cyclospora that has resulted in at least 1,645 confirmed cases across 34 states. In an epidemiological surveillance statement, Mexican authorities classified the risk as medium and recommended that travelers take extra hygiene precautions, especially regarding food and water consumption, as the source of contamination has not yet been definitively identified. Cyclospora is an intestinal infection caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, primarily transmitted through the consumption of food or water contaminated with fecal matter. According to the advisory, infected individuals shed the parasite in their feces, which can lead to contamination of food products and water sources. Health authorities noted that the current outbreak particularly affects four Midwestern states: Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia, where more than 400 cases have been reported. In fact, there is also a health alert in the United States.
HealthFDA Approves New Pill to Treat High Cholesterol Levels
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced on Thursday that it has approved, for the first time, a pill to treat high cholesterol levels in adults. The pill, Lipfendra, from pharmaceutical company Merck, will serve as a treatment to be used alongside diet and exercise to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), also known as 'bad cholesterol.' It will also be used for individuals with a hereditary form of high cholesterol, called heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH). The pill becomes the first oral PCSK9 inhibitor approved by the FDA, entering a market dominated by injectable treatments like Amgen's Repatha and Regeneron and Sanofi's Praluent. According to Merck, its list price will be $10.50 per day, based on a 30-day supply. Lipfendra works by blocking the PCSK9 protein, a liver protein that limits the body's ability to remove bad cholesterol from the blood.
HealthThe Crucial Steps to Prevent Rabies Transmission
Rabies is primarily found in wild animals such as bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes in the U.S. It can be transmitted to humans and pets through bites or scratches from infected animals. The CDC highlights that bat bites are a leading cause of rabies-related deaths in the country. To prevent rabies, it is crucial to avoid contact with wildlife, keep pets vaccinated, and seek immediate medical attention if bitten by a potentially rabid animal. Each year, over 100,000 people may be exposed, but fewer than 10 die due to effective prevention measures and access to post-exposure prophylaxis.
HealthPentagon Announces Testosterone Testing for Military Personnel
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced on Wednesday a new program for detecting 'testosterone deficiency' among troops, calling it necessary for them to operate at their 'absolute best level.' Hegseth stated that the new tests will be conducted annually as part of mandatory medical examinations for military personnel aged 30 and older. Those under 30 may volunteer for the test. In a video shared on social media, Hegseth referred simply to the troops, although it appears he is specifically addressing the evaluation of male service members for hormonal irregularities. This measure comes as other Trump administration officials have begun advocating for easier access to testosterone replacement therapies for men, but Hegseth's message mixes established science about the hormone with broader, less substantiated claims. When asked what conditions Hegseth aimed to address with the new policy, the Pentagon referred to Hegseth's statements in the video, where he spoke about keeping troops 'strong, resilient, and capable' and that the demands of modern battlefield require 'maximum psychological and mental readiness.' The Pentagon did not specify conditions or diseases targeted by the policy. In his video, Hegseth noted that receiving testosterone replacement therapy will be voluntary. In recent years, special operations troops—particularly Navy SEALs—have come under scrutiny for their use of testosterone and similar substances to enhance performance. The death of a SEAL candidate during training in 2022 led to the discovery of substances in his possession, including testosterone, revealing a much more widespread drug use in the elite program than previously acknowledged. A year after the candidate's death, the Navy announced it would begin a drug testing program to detect 'any hormonal, chemical, or pharmacologically related substances to testosterone that promote muscle growth.' Hegseth asserted that his new initiative 'is not about artificial enhancement.' The Pentagon did not respond to questions about what research or academic studies supported the measure, nor did it indicate whether female service members could be tested for estrogen deficiency as they enter perimenopause. Testosterone levels in men naturally decline with age and have long been linked to issues such as erectile dysfunction, low libido, mood changes, and weight gain. However, experts have debated for years how to diagnose these problems and whether they should be treated by replacing the hormone. Hegseth's announcement comes as Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and other Trump administration officials push to make it easier for doctors to prescribe testosterone. Last month, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposed relaxing prescription limits for testosterone gels, pills, patches, and injections. The current FDA label specifies that the medications are only for men with hypogonadism, a medical condition that causes drastically low testosterone levels. However, many influencers and advocates of Kennedy's 'Make America Healthy Again' movement promote testosterone as a way to look younger, build muscle, and maintain mental clarity, although these uses are not accepted by most medical experts. Nonetheless, recent studies have bolstered the argument for the benefits of testosterone for certain conditions while dispelling concerns about its safety, particularly regarding cardiovascular safety. Last year, the FDA removed a prominent boxed warning about potential risks of heart attack and stroke from testosterone drugs. Separately, a series of studies from the National Institutes of Health in older men found that taking testosterone improved erectile dysfunction, libido, and other sexual measures, and had a small effect on mood. However, there was little to no improvement in other measures such as fatigue, memory, or overall well-being. Other studies have shown potential improvements in muscle development, strength, and bone density. However, current medical guidelines generally recommend against widespread testing of testosterone levels. Physicians are typically advised to discuss testosterone therapy with men who exhibit concerning symptoms and documented low hormone levels in two separate blood tests. Testosterone testing is challenging because hormone levels fluctuate throughout the day. Accurate testosterone measurements are usually taken in the morning after fasting.
HealthDHR Health Neuroscience Institute Nationally Recognized for Commitment to Excellence in Stroke Care
The DHR Health Neuroscience Institute in Edinburg has been awarded the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® – Stroke Gold Plus award for its excellence in stroke care. This recognition highlights the institute's dedication to providing timely and appropriate treatment for stroke patients, following nationally recognized guidelines. Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S., and early intervention is crucial for improving survival rates and reducing disabilities. The program aims to enhance patient care by ensuring adherence to the latest research-based protocols, ultimately helping to save lives and support recovery.
HealthA Blood Test Could Help Detect High Alzheimer's Risk in Healthy Individuals
A blood test may predict whether seemingly healthy older adults are likely to develop Alzheimer's symptoms in the next five to ten years, researchers reported on Wednesday. This information could be reassuring or alarming, but for now, it serves as a potential tool to accelerate drug development by helping to identify and enroll high-risk individuals in studies of potential Alzheimer treatments or prevention strategies. Large clinical trials are already testing whether certain medications could prevent or at least delay the disease, and if any prove effective, doctors will need a simple way to determine who should try them. The scientists behind the new study emphasize that it is too early for healthy individuals to seek the p-tau217 test, which is currently used to help diagnose whether those experiencing cognitive issues have Alzheimer's or another disorder.
HealthWhy experts can't pinpoint source of 'explosive diarrhea' parasite
It's been difficult for the CDC to obtain an accurate count of how many cases are currently in the U.S.
HealthCameron and Hidalgo counties report 10 total cases of Cyclosporiasis
Cameron and Hidalgo counties in Texas have reported a total of 10 cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic stomach illness linked to contaminated food or water. The Hidalgo County Health Department confirmed eight cases, while Cameron County reported two. Nationwide, there are over 1,600 confirmed cases, with Texas seeing between 31 and 80 cases. Health officials emphasize the importance of washing produce thoroughly and recommend cooking vegetables to prevent infection. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration. The CDC is investigating the outbreak, which has seen a significant increase compared to last year.
HealthSecond Rio Grande Valley hospital under investigation over alleged birth tourism packages
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has initiated an investigation into Mission Regional Medical Center in Mission and Knapp Medical Center in Weslaco for alleged birth tourism practices. These hospitals, owned by Prime Healthcare, are accused of marketing childbirth packages to foreign nationals, which Abbott deems illegal. The inquiry follows a social media post by former Congresswoman Mayra Flores, who highlighted a billboard promoting these packages. Mission Regional claims the marketing campaign was misinterpreted and has since been halted. Abbott emphasized that U.S. citizenship cannot be commodified and that Texas will not allow exploitation of its healthcare system.