Health
Health news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
HealthMexico Insists Its Lettuce Did Not Cause Cyclosporiasis Outbreak in the U.S.
Mexico City – The Mexican government reiterated on Friday that it has not been proven that lettuce produced in the state of Guanajuato, in central Mexico, is the source of the cyclosporiasis outbreak reported in the United States, despite U.S. authorities maintaining a link between the illness and the product. Federal Commissioner for the Protection against Health Risks, Víctor Hugo Borja, explained that the U.S. investigation arose from interviews conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) with infected individuals, many of whom reported consuming processed lettuce at fast-food restaurants. Based on those testimonies, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) traced the distribution chain to a Taylor Farms facility in Guanajuato and notified Mexico of the possible association. 'What we are being reported are hypotheses, not confirmed issues,' Borja stated during the presidential morning conference.
HealthCourt Orders Meta to Pay $567 Million to Address Children's Mental Health
A New Mexico court has ordered Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, to pay $567 million to compensate for the harm caused to young people by its platforms, marking the second phase of a historic trial. Judge Bryan Biedscheid ruled Thursday night that the majority of the funds, $420 million, will be allocated to treatment services for youth, while the remainder will be invested in awareness and prevention, screening services, and other expenses over the next five years. This new penalty adds to the $375 million in civil fines imposed on Meta in March after the jury found that the company deliberately harmed children's mental health and concealed information about child sexual exploitation on its platforms. In the second phase, prosecutors requested the judge to impose fundamental changes on Meta aimed at controlling addictive features, improving age verification, and preventing child sexual exploitation through default privacy settings and increased oversight. The total amount Meta must pay—$942 million—represents a small fraction of its annual profits, which were around $60 billion in 2025. Investors appeared to downplay the New Mexico ruling in after-hours trading on Thursday, causing Meta's shares to drop less than 0.5% to $589.44. However, the ruling represents another setback for Meta, which is facing a wave of lawsuits from thousands of families of children harmed by social media. New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez stated that the ruling sends a clear message: companies will be held accountable when their product designs knowingly put children at risk. 'Today's decision is a victory for all parents who have been concerned about the impact of social media on their children and for all children who deserve to grow up in a safer digital environment,' he said in a statement. Meta announced it would appeal, stating, 'We strive to keep users safe on our platforms and have been transparent about the challenges of identifying and removing malicious users and harmful content. We stand by our track record of protecting teens online and will continue to defend ourselves against allegations that misrepresent the facts.' The judge ordered Facebook and Instagram to create banners and informational screens to clearly explain their protective features, best practices, and tools to address inappropriate comments, for example, and to display them periodically. These changes and an educational campaign in New Mexico will be subject to state review. The court noted that federal child privacy laws prevent Meta from applying age verification tools to children under 13. The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) means it cannot require Meta to ask minors for personal data or to passively track them online, even for age verification purposes. The court also indicated that ordering age verification for minors only for Meta and not for other social media companies would be 'unfair and harmful' to the company. Instead, the court ordered Meta to continue improving its age verification tools in New Mexico, which include using artificial intelligence to determine individuals' ages based on signals such as their friends and the type of content they post and consume. Meta will also need to develop a specific age prediction model for children under 13 in the next two years. Additionally, Meta must request age verification from Instagram and Facebook users in New Mexico whom it estimates to be under 13. If it determines that a user is under 13, or under 18 but cannot estimate a specific age, Meta must treat them as under 13 or under 18 until it verifies their age. The company must also partner with schools or child protection organizations to create a reporting portal where school staff can report users who may be under 13. Furthermore, it must delete any personal information it has collected about users under 13. The court also ordered Meta to report biannually on its progress in complying with the corrective measures. What emerges from New Mexico is the first of many dominoes that will fall for Meta, noted Laura Edelson, an assistant professor at Northeastern University specializing in social media and cybersecurity. 'The U.S. is not going to pass a law banning social media,' Edelson stated. 'But if companies like Meta know they are causing harm to users due to their product design, states are ultimately finding ways to rein this in.' This story was translated from English by an AP editor with the help of a generative artificial intelligence tool. A Telemundo Digital editor reviewed the translation.
HealthDHR Health To Add Advanced Vascular Care Services to Its Brownsville Multispecialty Clinic
Starting August 31, 2026, the DHR Health Brownsville Multispecialty Clinic will enhance its services by introducing advanced vascular surgical care. Dr. Gabriel Gonzalez, a vascular surgeon with expertise in conditions such as peripheral arterial disease and aneurysms, will lead this initiative. He is a Rio Grande Valley native who completed his medical training at the University of Texas Medical Branch and a fellowship in vascular surgery at Baylor University Medical Center. This new service aims to provide residents of the lower Rio Grande Valley with improved access to specialized vascular care at the clinic located at 4770 N. Expressway.
HealthKellogg's Cereals to Eliminate Artificial Dyes by Year-End
WK Kellogg announced it will remove artificial dyes from all its cereals by the end of this year. This change comes a year earlier than planned, as Kellogg had indicated last August that it would phase out synthetic dyes by the end of 2027. However, the company stated on Thursday that it has identified fruit and vegetable-based juices that will provide distinctive colors to cereals like Froot Loops and Apple Jacks. The Battle Creek, Michigan-based company also mentioned it has invested in equipment to facilitate the transition to natural colors. Additionally, Kellogg is removing BHT, an artificial preservative, from the small number of cereals that still contain it. 'Consumers are looking for foods made with simple, recognizable ingredients, and we are proud to meet those expectations even ahead of schedule,' said Doug VanDeVelde, Kellogg's growth officer, in a statement. Kellogg has faced pressure for years to remove artificial ingredients from its cereals, a move it has already made in other countries like Canada. In 2024, dozens of people protested outside Kellogg's headquarters, delivering petitions with 400,000 signatures urging the company to eliminate artificial dyes and BHT. This pressure has intensified under U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has urged food companies to gradually phase out petroleum-based artificial dyes. Last August, Kellogg also signed an agreement with the Texas Attorney General committing to 'permanently eliminate toxic dyes' from its cereals by the end of 2027. Retailers are also pushing companies to act. Earlier this year, Target announced it would stop selling cereals containing artificial dyes by the end of May. Walmart has also stated it will eliminate artificial dyes from its private label brands by January 2027.
HealthHealthy Recipes: Ninel Conde's Strategy to Conquer Top Chef VIP
With just days to go before the start of Top Chef VIP, participants have already defined their strategies to impress the judges' palates. While some will rely on family recipes and traditional flavors, Ninel Conde is determined to bring a different proposal: to show that healthy cooking can also be delicious. The actress and singer, known as 'El Bombón Asesino,' states that her goal is to infuse her personal style into each dish, adapting traditional recipes to make them healthier without losing their essence. 'What I hope is to be myself and leave my mark, my flavor, who I am. I want them to know what I really eat. I can transform a dish that may not be healthy into one that is a bit healthier,' said Ninel Conde. Conde explained that her commitment to a healthy lifestyle goes beyond the competition, and she hopes to inspire others, especially women over 40, to improve their eating habits. 'For me, if one, two, or ten people, ten women, learn to eat healthier and feel better after 40, like I do, that is my challenge. After this, I want to create a protocol for people 40 and older who want to reverse the effects of aging, combat perimenopause, and control their hormones. That won't be achieved with a plate full of oil, saturated fats, and sugar, right?' said Conde. The question remains whether a proposal focused on well-being will stand out in a competition where time, creativity, and the judges' criteria will be crucial. 'In the end, this is not a healthy food contest, but that is my essence and my little contribution. Maybe the chef will say: 'It needs salt,' but I will respond that salt is harmful to the heart and causes water retention. Who knows, maybe the chef will learn to eat healthier,' Conde added.
HealthHow to Keep Your Pets Safe and Cool as Summer Temperatures Soar
As summer temperatures rise, the City of McAllen urges pet owners to take precautions to protect their animals from heat-related issues. Residents are reminded to provide fresh water, shade, and a safe environment for their pets. Walks should be scheduled during cooler times, and the asphalt test can help determine if surfaces are too hot for pets. Signs of heat stroke include excessive panting and weakness, requiring immediate veterinary attention. Additionally, pets should never be left in parked cars. McAllen's Animal Care Services offers resources and encourages reporting distressed animals to ensure their safety during extreme heat.
HealthTexas AG Finalizes Landmark $10M Settlement with Texas Children’s Hospital Over Youth Gender Care
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has finalized a significant $10 million settlement with Texas Children’s Hospital, which includes the establishment of the nation’s first Detransition Clinic. This agreement resolves allegations of improper billing to Texas Medicaid for unauthorized gender-transition procedures under the Texas Health Care Program Fraud Prevention Act and the federal False Claims Act. The settlement also mandates the permanent revocation of privileges for several physicians involved and requires changes to the hospital's bylaws regarding gender-transition interventions. The Detransition Clinic is expected to open by October 2026, with $8.57 million allocated to the State of Texas.
HealthJalapeños Linked to Salmonella Outbreak in the U.S. Trace Back to Farm in Mexico
Federal authorities reported that the source of the jalapeños linked to a salmonella outbreak in several states across the United States has been traced back to a producer in Sinaloa, Mexico. At least 345 people in 27 states have fallen ill from the strain of salmonella associated with the jalapeños, with the majority of cases reported in Minnesota and Colorado. No deaths have been reported, but authorities indicated that 36 people have been hospitalized. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted on Wednesday that the peppers were imported into the U.S. by Coast Citrus Distributors. The company has recalled the product and is notifying its customers, which include some prominent Mexican restaurant chains, officials said.
HealthFamily says Pérez Hilton can communicate and holds onto 'hope' after hospitalization
The family of famous entertainment blogger Pérez Hilton says they 'hold onto hope' after he was hospitalized during a mental health crisis at his home in South Florida. Authorities responded to a neighborhood in Westchester after receiving 'multiple calls about a person live-streaming self-harm acts on social media' on Tuesday night, according to the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office. The video, which was streamed on TikTok before the platform removed it, appeared to show Hilton covered in blood, with visible cuts and holding what looked like a knife, NBC News reported. In the video, viewers pleaded with him and asked for his phone number to alert authorities. The family shared a new statement on their website, saying: 'Our family wants to once again thank everyone who has reached out with prayers, kind messages, and support for Pérez. Your compassionate humanity during this painful time has meant more than words can express. This has been incredibly difficult and emotional for us, and it has become even harder because very little information has been made available to our family. While we continue to await further updates, we hold onto hope. We have also been able to confirm that Pérez can communicate, which has given our family hope. We respectfully ask that you continue with your prayers, understanding, and consideration as Pérez continues to recover. We will share additional updates as we receive confirmed information and it becomes possible to do so. For now, we are taking it step by step and keeping the focus where it needs to be: on Pérez and his recovery. Again, thank you, truly, for all your support and compassion. We are very grateful. For mental health resources, visit https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help.' If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or chat live at 988lifeline.org. You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional support.
HealthFDA Approves New Type of Flu Vaccine for Seniors
The FDA has approved a new flu vaccine for seniors, named mFlusiva, developed using the same mRNA technology that was crucial in combating the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Moderna. This vaccine is intended for adults aged 50 and older. While other flu vaccines are already available in pharmacies for the upcoming fall vaccination season, mFlusiva is expected to be available soon. The FDA granted full approval for its use in individuals aged 50 to 64 based on a study showing a 27% reduction in flu cases compared to another brand. For those 65 and older, it received accelerated approval, pending further studies. Side effects were mostly mild and temporary, including pain at the injection site and fatigue.
HealthIt's a Nightmare: Parents of Boy Seriously Injured in Dog Attack in the Bahamas
A family from South Florida is facing a nightmare after their 9-year-old son, Beau Brattain, was severely injured in a dog attack during their vacation in the Bahamas on July 28. He was airlifted to Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, where he is recovering from extensive injuries, including deep lacerations and a severe scalp injury. His parents report that despite the severity of his condition, Beau is making daily progress. Authorities have arrested a man for not controlling his dogs, and the family has launched a GoFundMe campaign aiming to raise $3 million for Beau's medical care, which has already included three surgeries.
HealthDriscoll Children's Hospital RGV expands critical care services
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- A newly renovated pediatric intensive care unit is now open at Driscoll Children's Hospital in the Rio Grande Valley. The $9 million investment marks a new milestone for the facility, allowing healthcare leaders to treat more patients in critical care. The money will go toward adding 15 new beds and other
HealthTop federal prosecutor in South Texas says birth tourism allegations at Mission Regional are ‘highly, highly alarming’
McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Federal prosecutors may partner with the state to investigate whether two hospitals in the Rio Grande Valley promoted birth tourism. Questions about Mission Regional Medical Center and Knapp Medical Center surfaced in July, when photos of a billboard in Mexico went viral. The billboard promoted a website called havemybabyintexas.com. “It’s flagrant,”
HealthWhat Happened to Cuban-American Blogger Perez Hilton at His Miami Home
Following police intervention at the home of famous blogger and influencer Perez Hilton in Miami, after reports of self-harm during a live TikTok video on Tuesday night, his situation gained notoriety. The video, which was streamed on TikTok before being removed, showed Hilton apparently covered in blood, with cuts on his arms and torso, holding what appeared to be a knife. Viewers pleaded with him and asked for his phone number to alert authorities. The co-executive directors of Golden Artists Entertainment, the agency representing Hilton, stated they are aware of the concerning content circulating online about their client. Hilton's family and team confirmed on Wednesday that he is receiving medical attention and expressed gratitude for the support while requesting privacy. They did not provide additional details about his condition. Hilton, whose real name is Mario Armando Lavandeira Jr., was born in Miami to Cuban immigrant parents and rose to fame in the early 2000s for revealing and sometimes mocking celebrities involved in public scandals. After living in Las Vegas for three and a half years, he returned to Miami this year with his three children and mother, following a year he described as nearly costing him his life twice. Hilton has expanded his online presence with 'The Perez Hilton Podcast with Chris Booker' and has expressed regret for his past behavior that contributed to online bullying. His recent health issues, including a lengthy hospitalization, have prompted him to focus more on his family and well-being.
HealthBrownsville approves changes to public smoking ordinance
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Brownsville City Commission on Tuesday approved modifications to regulations on smoking in public places. The modifications were made to Ordinance Number 2026-1813, Chapter 54, Health and Sanitation, Article VI, which pertains to smoking in public places. According to the commission, the modifications were approved to promote and protect public health,
HealthMexico Reports 33 Cases of Cyclosporiasis in Several States
The Mexican Ministry of Health confirmed on Wednesday 33 cases of cyclosporiasis in different states across the country and stated that there is no conclusive evidence that the outbreak reported in the United States originated in Mexico. In a statement, the health authority detailed that the cases are under epidemiological surveillance and that investigations related to reports from the United States and British travelers who visited the Mexican Caribbean are ongoing. The institution assured that authorities in Mexico and the United States did not detect the parasite in samples taken from a packing facility in Guanajuato, identified by the U.S. government as a possible source of the outbreak, following allegations against a lettuce packing company that distributes to establishments like Taco Bell. 'The analyses conducted so far by health authorities in Mexico and the United States have not identified the presence of Cyclospora cayetanensis in the collected samples,' stated the Ministry. Additionally, the agency reported that it inspected 16 hotels in the Riviera Maya, in the state of Quintana Roo, where British travelers who contracted the infection stayed. During the visits, which concluded on August 4, epidemiological interviews were conducted, food processes and traceability were reviewed, and samples of fruits, vegetables, and water were taken, with results to be released once the corresponding analyses are completed. Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection that primarily causes intense and frequent diarrhea, as well as loss of appetite and weight, abdominal distension, nausea, fatigue, low fever, and vomiting. The disease is not usually transmitted from person to person, is more common during the warm months from May to August, and typically comes from contaminated fruits and vegetables.
HealthCyclospora Outbreak Spreads to Six More States
A significant outbreak of cyclosporiasis linked to shredded iceberg lettuce has spread to six additional states, including New Hampshire. Since early May, the outbreak, caused by a microscopic parasite from human feces, has resulted in hundreds of hospitalizations and two deaths. The newly affected states are Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, and North Carolina, joining Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Most cases are associated with Taco Bell's lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms from central Mexico. Over 22,000 people have tested positive or are suspected of having cyclosporiasis, with 517 hospitalized, according to the CDC.
HealthChipotle Removes Jalapeños from Some Restaurants Following Possible Link to Salmonella Outbreak
Chipotle Mexican Grill has removed jalapeños from some of its restaurants due to a potential link to a salmonella outbreak affecting over 100 people in Minnesota. The company stated that customer and employee health is their top priority and that the jalapeños were replaced with products from other suppliers. The Minnesota Department of Health is investigating the outbreak, which has identified 110 cases, with Chipotle being the primary restaurant contacted for interviews. While Chipotle is cooperating with the investigation, officials warn it is too early to determine if the outbreak is ongoing or if contaminated food is being served elsewhere.
HealthInfluencer Perez Hilton hospitalized in Miami after reports of self-harm on TikTok, according to police
Pérez Hilton, the well-known influencer and blogger, was hospitalized in Miami following reports of self-harm during a live TikTok broadcast on Tuesday night. Miami-Dade police responded to calls about the incident, where Hilton appeared to be injured and holding a knife. Authorities confirmed he was rescued and taken to a local hospital for medical attention. His management team expressed concern for his well-being and stated they had not been able to contact him directly. Hilton, whose real name is Mario Lavandeira, gained fame in the early 2000s for his celebrity gossip blog and has three children via surrogacy.