Health
Health news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
HealthWho Will Be Exempt from the New Medicaid Work Requirements Next Year?
Pregnant women, parents of young children, veterans with disabilities, and several other groups will be exempt from the new Medicaid work requirements, the Trump administration reported on Monday. The guidance was published by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, meeting the June 1 deadline set in President Donald Trump's 'great and beautiful bill' to explain how states should implement the work rules. Starting January 1, many adults receiving Medicaid will need to work, attend school, or volunteer for at least 80 hours a month to maintain their coverage. The guidance also includes exemptions for 'medically fragile' individuals or those with conditions that significantly limit their ability to work, such as cancer or substance use disorder. However, the guidance does not include an exemption for homeless individuals. States will have discretion to determine which medical conditions qualify for exemptions. Nebraska, which implemented Medicaid work requirements this year, listed the diagnoses that would qualify someone as medically fragile in a nearly 300-page document of medical codes and technical language.
HealthFrozen Pizza Product Recalled Due to Possible Salmonella
A frozen pizza product sold in popular supermarkets in the Chicago area and nationwide is being recalled due to an ongoing salmonella threat that has led to the recall of more than a dozen other products. Champion Foods, based in Michigan, announced last week that it was voluntarily recalling certain batches of Motor City Pizza Co. 5 Cheese Bread, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported on Monday. The product was sold nationwide at Costco, Walmart, Jewel, Kroger, Target, Meijer, and others. The recall is due to the potential risk of salmonella contamination. Concerns stem from a powdered milk ingredient supplied by California Dairies, which was recalled in April due to possible salmonella contamination and has been linked to recalls of at least a dozen popular snack products in the United States. The FDA stated that no illnesses have been reported so far.
HealthTexas AG Demands Answers From Bayer and PepsiCo in Sweeping Corporate Food Contamination Probe
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched a comprehensive investigation into glyphosate contamination in food, which poses health risks, especially to children. His office has issued Civil Investigative Demands to major companies like Bayer and PepsiCo. Glyphosate, a key ingredient in Roundup, is linked to various health issues, including cancer. Despite EPA restrictions on its use as a desiccant for oats in the U.S., many food companies source oats from countries where this practice is allowed. Paxton emphasized that no corporation is above the law and that his office will ensure accountability for any misleading health claims.
Health$40.8M in Grants Approved to Support Texas Veterans
Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) have announced the approval of $40.8 million in Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) grants. These funds will support 190 grants to 160 organizations across Texas, aiming to assist over 125,698 veterans and their families. The grants, approved last week, will provide vital services including clinical counseling, housing assistance, and legal aid. Funding primarily comes from Texas Lottery games designated for veteran support, along with other sources like donations on driver’s licenses. Since 2009, over $400 million has been awarded through FVA grants, enhancing the lives of Texas veterans and their families.
HealthUSPS Reveals List of States with Most Dog Attacks on Mail Carriers
Thousands of United States Postal Service (USPS) employees suffered dog attacks across the country in 2025, with Denver ranking third for the highest incidents. To combat these attacks, USPS launched the awareness campaign 'Don't Turn Your Back on Dog Bite Prevention' on Monday, June 1, sharing guidelines to help dog owners protect mail carriers and ensure safe mail delivery. 'Preventing dog-related incidents requires constant and shared vigilance. This campaign reinforces a vital truth: animal behavior can change in an instant; however, proactive awareness from both our mail carriers and the customers we serve can prevent painful injuries before they occur,' said Leeann Theriault, employee safety and health awareness manager. Over 5,200 employees were bitten by dogs throughout the United States. Which states had the highest incidence? California: 673, Texas: 358, Ohio: 287, New York: 269, Pennsylvania: 267, Illinois: 260, Florida: 183, Missouri: 182, Michigan: 174, Indiana: 159. Denver, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, San Antonio, Phoenix, Philadelphia, Jacksonville, and Miami were among the cities where mail carriers experienced the most dog bites in 2025.
HealthWhy Tim Ream Uses LEGOs to Manage His Mental Health
Tim Ream builds his mental health brick by brick. To help quiet his mind, the captain of the U.S. Men's National Team searches through thousands of tiny, colorful interlocking plastic bricks while assembling LEGO figures. He finds peace in locating the pieces. 'It forces you, in a way, to disconnect from what's going on outside and focus solely on the pieces and how they fit together,' Ream said in an episode of NBC's 'My Favorite World Cup Player.' Ream, a defender for Charlotte FC in MLS and who will captain the U.S. team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has spoken openly about his struggles with mental health, which he says date back to his elementary school years.
HealthTexas Animal Health Commission adds inspectors to stop screwworm spread
The Texas Animal Health Commission is increasing its workforce by hiring additional inspectors to combat the spread of the screwworm, a harmful parasite confirmed in northern Mexico. Local, state, and federal officials are actively monitoring the situation. The commission is reallocating vacant positions to focus on New World screwworm inspections, according to Deputy Executive Director T.R. Lansford. These inspectors will monitor livestock and fly traps along the border. The commission plans to assess the need for more inspectors in the Rio Grande Valley and may seek approval from state lawmakers for additional positions if necessary.
HealthWhat to know about the outbreak of a rare kind of Ebola
A rare strain of the Ebola virus has emerged in Congo and Uganda, with 134 confirmed cases and 18 deaths reported as of May 29. The World Health Organization has declared this outbreak a public health emergency. The Bundibugyo virus, responsible for the outbreak, has no approved treatments or vaccines. The situation is exacerbated by ongoing conflict in the region, which complicates the response efforts. Health workers face challenges, including a lack of equipment and community distrust. The outbreak began in late April in Ituri province, and international aid is being mobilized, though it has not kept pace with the outbreak's rapid spread.
HealthHHSC Reminds Providers to Review Emergency Plans
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is reminding health care facilities and child care providers to update their emergency plans ahead of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season. Despite forecasts predicting a below-normal season, the NOAA anticipates three to six hurricanes, including major ones. HHSC emphasizes the importance of preparedness to ensure the safety of Texans and requires long-term care providers to regularly prepare for disasters. Facilities must address power loss, food and water needs, communication, staffing, and care continuity in their plans. Providers can find resources on the Texas Ready website to assist in their preparations.
HealthLawsuit Accuses 'Inhumane' Conditions at ICE Detention Center in El Paso
EL PASO, Texas – A group of legal organizations has filed a federal lawsuit against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), alleging 'inhumane and dangerous' conditions at the Camp East Montana detention center located on the Fort Bliss military base. The class-action lawsuit was filed on May 29 in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas on behalf of four detained individuals, who seek to represent all migrants held at the facility, which is considered the largest in the country with a capacity of up to 5,000 people. Allegations of abuse, medical neglect, and unsanitary conditions include serious lack of medical care and outbreaks of diseases such as measles, COVID-19, and tuberculosis; excessive use of force by guards; solitary confinement as punishment for requesting basic care; spoiled and insufficient food leading to significant weight loss; unsanitary conditions, including exposure to sewage and dirt; and constant exposure to desert dust affecting respiratory health. Additionally, court documents state that conditions within the camp are so severe that some individuals have considered abandoning their immigration cases to leave the facility. The lawsuit also notes that at least three deaths have been reported within the center in less than a year since its opening.
HealthRecliner Sold on Amazon Withdrawn from Market After Finger Amputation
A recliner sold on Amazon is being withdrawn from the market following a report that an individual suffered a finger amputation while adjusting the chair, authorities reported on Thursday. The recall of the chair, manufactured by Giantex, was initiated after it was determined that the item poses a 'risk of amputation' if a user's finger becomes trapped in a 'pinch point during adjustment,' according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on its website. Approximately 1,155 chairs are included in this recall. The model number for the outdoor lounge chair is NP1005NY, which can be found on the front of the chair's packaging. 'The recalled lounge chairs are blue and measure 76 inches long, 23 inches wide, and 13 inches high. They feature a five-position adjustable locking system, and the height of the backrest can be adjusted from 13.5 to 26.5 inches,' the CPSC stated.
HealthVirus Causing Vomiting Spreads Across Much of the U.S.: What You Need to Know
While flu season may largely be behind us, an unpleasant and highly contagious stomach virus is on the rise. In recent weeks, hikers in Southern California have been affected by norovirus, according to the Pacific Crest Trail Association. Outdoor enthusiasts along this iconic trail are not the only ones suffering. Recent wastewater surveillance reveals a rising trend of 'high' levels of norovirus across much of the country, with rates currently increasing in the Northeast. Between August 1 and May 7, the CDC's NoroSTAT program recorded 1,194 outbreaks, compared to 2,534 during the same period last year, a figure that aligns with historical averages. 'Nationally, norovirus remains in the HIGH category due to elevated concentrations detected in the last 21 days,' said Amanda Bidwell, scientific programs manager at WastewaterSCAN, an academic program from Stanford University in collaboration with Emory University. Often referred to as the 'winter vomiting bug,' norovirus outbreaks can persist into late spring, Bidwell explained. Wastewater data also highlight a norovirus outbreak in the San Francisco Bay Area, although national figures remain within the usual average for this time of year, noted Dr. Linda Yancey, an infectious disease specialist at Memorial Hermann in the Houston area. 'There is nothing unusual about this particular outbreak in California,' Yancey added. 'They just had bad luck.' According to the CDC, national levels are not 'unusually high' compared to previous seasons; however, the agency's tracking system relies on confirmed cases reported by state agencies, meaning it may not capture a significant number of cases of the illness. 'Wastewater surveillance is very useful for this highly contagious virus, as there is not much clinical data to characterize outbreaks since most people recover at home without needing to see a healthcare professional,' Bidwell stated. Currently, several strains of norovirus are circulating, including GII.4—a common strain that has been around for years—and GII.17, a more mutated strain that partially evades previously acquired immunity, as the population has not been exposed to it as frequently, Yancey explained. During the 2024-25 season, the GII.17 variant surpassed GII.4 as the predominant strain in the U.S., causing approximately 75% of outbreaks. Both variants cause very similar symptoms, although the virus is known to mutate rapidly, Yancey noted. 'The newest variant is not inherently more contagious,' she added. 'It may spread more easily because fewer people have partial immunity to it; thus, more will get sick and transmit the virus.' Seasonal travel and extreme heat could be responsible. Although primarily a winter illness, norovirus cases can see a spike in late spring, said Aaron Glatt, chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau in Long Island, New York. Additionally, the virus spreads easily among people, he added. Like measles, norovirus is one of the most contagious diseases known; infected patients can transmit the virus to an average of up to seven other people, Yancey indicated. Seasonal travel and extreme heat could be contributing factors. Increased traffic during holidays brings large groups of people into close contact, accelerating viral transmission; meanwhile, rising temperatures force people indoors, facilitating rapid spread in crowded spaces, said Dr. Scott Roberts, associate medical director of infection prevention at Yale School of Medicine in Connecticut. 'I haven't seen any evidence of a new strain; however, as with all viruses, evolution occurs, and unfortunately, our immunity to norovirus is not long-lasting,' Roberts added. How does norovirus spread? 'Norovirus can occur at any time of the year, but in the Northern Hemisphere, it is most commonly seen between November and May,' Bidwell noted. It typically spreads in environments where many people gather—such as cruise ships—either through direct contact with an ill person or by touching a contaminated surface and then bringing hands to the mouth. Often, people contract the infection through contaminated food—for example, when an ill cook prepares food and then serves it to diners—or by drinking untreated water. Those who consume ready-to-eat cold foods that are contaminated—such as salads and sandwiches—are at greater risk. Symptoms of norovirus and treatments to avoid. Norovirus is the most common cause of foodborne illness in the United States. Symptoms—vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps—usually appear between 12 and 48 hours after exposure to the virus. Some people may only experience diarrhea or vomiting; however, a distinguishing feature of norovirus is the intensity of vomiting compared to other stomach viruses. The virus can be detected through a stool sample; however, doctors typically diagnose the condition without laboratory testing. Most healthy adults recover on their own within a few days, although they can continue to transmit the infection for up to two weeks, even after feeling better. There is no specific treatment for norovirus, and antibiotics are ineffective, as the infection is caused by a virus and not by bacteria. Experts recommend consuming oral rehydration solutions—rather than sports drinks—to replenish essential nutrients and minerals lost due to vomiting and diarrhea; however, drinks like Gatorade can be helpful in cases of mild dehydration. However, when dehydration becomes severe, the patient may require intravenous fluids to replenish lost volume. Vulnerable populations, such as young children and the elderly, should watch for warning signs of dehydration, including: decreased urination, dry mouth, dizziness when standing, and crying with few tears. To protect against norovirus, avoid consuming raw shellfish (especially oysters) and always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. Hand sanitizers are often ineffective against this virus; therefore, clean surfaces using EPA-registered disinfectants specifically labeled to eliminate it. This article was originally published in English by NBC News.
HealthCBP launches campaign to warn public about New World Screwworm threat
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced Thursday it has launched a campaign to warn the traveling public in South Texas about the threat posed by the New World Screwworm. The agency aims to protect the livestock industry, economy, and food supply chain by raising awareness about the invasive pest and is
HealthCBP Officials Sound Alarm on Lethal Screwworm Parasite in South Texas
CBP officials in Laredo are raising awareness about the New World Screwworm (NWS) through a public campaign aimed at preventing its spread in South Texas. Informational sheets in English and Spanish are being distributed at eight ports of entry from Brownsville to Del Rio. The USDA has increased the production of sterile flies to combat NWS, which has been detected within 55 miles of the border. The U.S. government has suspended live cattle imports from Mexico since May 2025 due to an outbreak. Public vigilance is essential to protect livestock and pets from this invasive pest.
HealthBlood Test Included Among Options for Detecting Colorectal Cancer
For the first time, a blood test has been added to the list of colorectal cancer screening tests recommended by the American Cancer Society. It is not intended to replace colonoscopies but to reach individuals who might otherwise not get tested. "About one-third of Americans are not up to date with colorectal cancer screening," said Dr. William Dahut, chief scientific officer of the American Cancer Society. Incorporating a new type of test could "drastically increase" the number of people undergoing colorectal cancer screening, which is the leading cause of cancer death in individuals under 50 in the country, he noted. The blood test, called Shield, from California-based Guardant Health, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2024. It works by detecting fragments of DNA released by cancerous tumors. The American Cancer Society recommends it only for those who cannot or do not want to undergo more effective screening tests, such as colonoscopy or stool tests.
HealthMcAllen Mayor Leads Public Push for Early Lung Cancer Detection
McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos led a discussion on lung cancer awareness as part of the city's Real Conversations program, featuring retired police lieutenant Joel Morales and pulmonologist Dr. Juan P. Rey Mendoza. Morales, a lung cancer survivor, shared his story of initially ignoring symptoms, while Dr. Rey emphasized the importance of early detection through low-dose CT screenings, especially for those over 50 with a smoking history. Both urged Rio Grande Valley residents to seek medical evaluations for any health concerns, highlighting the availability of local diagnostic and treatment services. Villalobos encouraged prioritizing preventive health measures.
HealthFormer Attorney General Pam Bondi Diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer
A source familiar with the matter confirmed to NBC News that former Attorney General Pam Bondi has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer and is currently receiving treatment. The news was initially reported online by Axios as part of a broader report on President Trump's appointment of Bondi to a White House artificial intelligence panel. 'Bondi was diagnosed with thyroid cancer shortly after leaving the Department of Justice,' according to a source.
HealthDid You Buy It? Walmart Recalls Popular Seasoning Due to Salmonella Risk
Walmart has issued a recall for the 'Blackstone Parmesan Ranch' seasoning due to potential salmonella contamination. The recall was announced on May 15 by Blackstone Products after California Dairies, Inc. removed a powdered milk ingredient linked to the contamination. No illnesses have been reported so far. The affected product has several lot numbers with expiration dates ranging from July 2, 2027, to August 12, 2027. Customers are advised not to consume the product and to dispose of it immediately. For replacements, they can contact Blackstone Products at 1-888-879-4610. Salmonella can cause severe infections, especially in vulnerable populations.
HealthFor the World Cup, Mexico Activates Surveillance Measures for Ebola Cases
MEXICO CITY — Mexico announced on Tuesday that it will implement epidemiological surveillance measures for Ebola in coordination with the United States and Canada during the World Cup. Tourists who have been in contact with infected individuals are urged to maintain a 21-day isolation period if they plan to travel to the Latin American country. Mexican Health Secretary David Kershenobich stated at the morning presidential conference that the three host countries of the global event agreed to implement coordinated surveillance protocols to ensure the safety of both residents and the millions of tourists expected to visit. Kershenobich noted that Mexico's protocols will include health screenings at international airports, enhanced review processes for visitors' flight itineraries, verification of exposure factors to Ebola before boarding planes, and ongoing monitoring of suspected cases. 'As the host country for the World Cup in 2026, Mexico is committed to providing the safest possible environment,' the secretary said, assuring that the country is 'taking all necessary isolation measures for any eventuality that may occur.' So far, Ebola infections have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with over 900 suspected cases and more than 220 suspected deaths, and in Uganda, where there are six cases and one death. According to the African Union's health agency, there are 10 African countries at risk.