Health
Health news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
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.
HealthWhat 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.
HealthHidalgo County Strengthens Monitoring Due to Arrival of Screwworm in Texas
As cases of the screwworm increase in Mexico and the first case detected in a person in Nuevo León, authorities in Texas are also ramping up control measures following the confirmation of the first case in Texas livestock. Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez issued a statement regarding collaborative efforts with the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), the State Department of Health Services, and other agencies. Cortez explained that local authorities are closely monitoring the situation related to the New World screwworm after the recent detection of a case in Texas. According to the official, no cases have been reported in Hidalgo County so far, although authorities are coordinating with state and federal agencies to prepare for any potential developments. Cortez noted that the county is working together to monitor the situation and is in communication with judges from Cameron, Starr, and Willacy Counties to share information and coordinate regional efforts.
HealthTexas Confirms First Case of H5N1 Avian Flu in Dairy Cattle
This is the first confirmed case in dairy cattle in Texas for 2026, detected after observing symptoms of illness in the cattle and a decrease in milk production. Samples were analyzed by the Texas A&M Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, and on May 30, the National Veterinary Services Laboratory confirmed the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI H5N1) in the dairy cattle in Texas. The dairy farm remains under quarantine. The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA APHIS) reported that the affected dairy operation has been placed under quarantine while investigations continue to determine the extent of the situation. Meanwhile, state and federal officials are working together to contain any potential spread of the virus. Is there a risk for consumers? The USDA, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and other federal agencies reiterated that there are no concerns regarding the safety of the commercial milk supply. They explained that pasteurization remains effective in inactivating the H5N1 virus. Additionally, milk from affected animals is removed from the commercial system or destroyed to prevent it from entering the supply chain for human consumption. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the H5N1 viruses currently circulating among birds and dairy cattle pose a low risk to the general population in the United States. However, authorities continue to promote strict biosecurity measures to reduce the possibility of transmission among animals.
HealthTexas Attorney General Launches Investigation into Caffeine Levels in Energy Drinks
The Office of the Attorney General announced that the investigation will be conducted under the provisions of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. So far, no formal charges have been filed against the companies under investigation, Celsius Holdings, Inc. and Alani Nutrition, LLC. According to the Attorney General, the process aims to determine whether the companies may have misled consumers about the safety of these products for teenagers and minors; therefore, it will be reviewed whether the warnings included on the packaging are sufficient to adequately inform consumers about potential risks, including eye-catching colors, attractive designs, and marketing strategies targeted at young audiences. In relation to this announcement, the Texas Attorney General referenced a lawsuit filed by the family of a 17-year-old girl from Weslaco, which claims that the consumption of energy drinks with high caffeine content contributed to the heart problems that led to the young woman's death. The case remains pending in court, and the allegations have not been legally resolved. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) have warned about potential effects related to the consumption of energy drinks by minors, including increased heart rate, palpitations, elevated blood pressure, anxiety, and dehydration. Alani Nutrition, owned by Celsius Holdings, markets the energy drink Alani Nu, a popular brand among young adults that contains approximately 200 milligrams of caffeine per 12-ounce can. In this regard, medical experts consider that this level of caffeine may pose risks to children and adolescents.
HealthA tremendous load off our back: Cameron County storm victim turns to SBA for disaster relief loans
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is providing low-interest disaster loans to residents and small businesses in the Rio Grande Valley affected by severe weather in April and May. Vicky Cantu from San Benito, whose home was damaged on May 9, visited the disaster outreach center to apply for assistance. She described the stress of living in a damaged home and the importance of the loans for recovery. Applications are open for those impacted, requiring a cell phone, ID, and email. The center operates Monday to Friday, with application deadlines for physical damage on July 6, 2026, and economic injury on February 8, 2027.
HealthFirst U. S. screwworm case confirmed in South Texas
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed the first case of New World screwworm in South Texas, specifically in La Pryor, Zavala County. This parasitic fly poses a significant threat to the state's $15 billion cattle industry. The USDA is working with local partners and has activated personnel to manage the situation. The screwworm, which targets warm-blooded mammals, had been eradicated in the U.S. since the 1960s but has re-emerged in Central America and Mexico. Officials are implementing measures to prevent its spread, including shutting down live animal imports from Mexico and establishing sterile fly production facilities in Texas and Mexico.
HealthUSDA announces possible case of New World screwworm in South Texas
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investigating a suspected case of New World screwworm in South Texas, which could threaten the state's $15 billion cattle industry. A sample from La Pryor in Zavala County tested positive at the USDA's National Veterinary Services Laboratories. Officials have activated response teams and are collaborating with local partners to manage the situation. The screwworm, a parasitic fly, has not been seen in the U.S. since the 1960s and poses serious risks to livestock. The USDA is also working with Mexican and Panamanian officials to eradicate the pest using sterile fly techniques.
HealthFirst Case of Screwworm Confirmed in Texas
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department confirmed the first case of the screwworm (NWS) in Zavala County on June 3. The sample was taken from a three-week-old calf with an umbilical injury and identified by the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Iowa. This marks the first detection in Texas since the parasite began moving north from Central America in 2023. Currently, no other cases have been reported in the state. Authorities have established an infested zone and imposed animal movement restrictions. They are also accelerating the release of sterile flies to control the breeding population in the area.
HealthUSDA announces possible New World screwworm infection in South Texas
The United States Department of Agriculture announced on social media that a case of the New World screwworm (NWS) may have been detected in south Texas.
HealthPossible Screwworm Case Under Investigation in South Texas
Authorities reported that a possible case of New World Screwworm (NWS) has been detected in South Texas. According to preliminary information, the sample was sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in Ames, Iowa, where confirmation tests will be conducted. While awaiting official results, authorities indicated that personnel have already been activated in the area and are working in coordination with local partners to address the situation and follow up on the case. They also stated that they will keep the community informed as the investigation progresses and new information becomes available. 'What you can expect from us is transparency, openness, and, most importantly, action,' authorities said in a statement. The screwworm is a pest that can affect animals by depositing larvae in open wounds, which can cause serious health damage to the animal if not treated promptly. Authorities assured that updates will be provided as soon as laboratory test results are available.
HealthAuthorities Investigate Possible Case of Screwworm in South Texas
Authorities reported that a possible case of New World Screwworm (NWS) has been detected in South Texas. According to preliminary information, the sample was sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in Ames, Iowa, where confirmation tests will be conducted. While awaiting official results, authorities stated that personnel have already been activated in the area and are working in coordination with local partners to address the situation and follow up on the case. They also indicated that they will keep the community informed as the investigation progresses and new data becomes available. 'What you can expect from us is transparency, openness, and, most importantly, action,' authorities said in a statement. The screwworm is a pest that can affect animals by depositing larvae in open wounds, which can cause serious health issues if not treated promptly. Authorities assured that updates will be provided as soon as laboratory test results are available.
HealthPrescription Health: Arlene fight for two
Arlene Brown, a 21-week pregnant woman, was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, a fast-moving type that complicates treatment options. With a family history of cancer and a BRCA1 gene mutation, she faced this challenge head-on. Contrary to common belief, her doctors at Duke Cancer Center assured her that chemotherapy could be safely administered during pregnancy. Arlene began treatment in her second trimester, and after delivering her baby at 35 weeks, she continued with intensified therapies. Now cancer-free, Arlene shares her story of resilience and motherhood, emphasizing the importance of support during her journey.
HealthTexas Children Hospital detransition clinic to launch this year, will include mental health and endocrinology services
Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston will establish a detransition clinic for transgender patients later this year, following a settlement with the Texas Attorney General's Office. The clinic will offer various services, including endocrinology, surgery, and mental health support. The hospital has 90 days from the settlement's effective date to launch the clinic, which is part of a $10 million settlement stemming from a 2023 investigation. The agreement also requires the hospital to maintain a list of potential patients for gender-affirming care and remove related press releases from its website. The clinic aims to formalize existing supportive services for patients.