A suspected outbreak of the rare hantavirus on a cruise ship in the Atlantic kills 3 people

A suspected hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship in the Atlantic has resulted in three deaths, including an elderly couple, and at least three others falling ill, according to the World Health Organization and South Africa's Department of Health. The ship, which departed Argentina three weeks ago, is currently anchored off Cape Verde. One patient is in intensive care in Johannesburg, while two crew members are receiving urgent medical attention. Approximately 150 passengers were onboard during the outbreak, and investigations are ongoing to assess the public health risk and provide support to those affected.

Retired Valley teacher speaks on reduced health care premiums

Retired teachers in the Valley are facing financial challenges, particularly with health care costs. Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Teacher Retirement System of Texas to explore options for lowering health insurance premiums. Sanjuanita Lopez-Handy, president of the Magic Valley Retired School Personnel Association and a former teacher of 35 years, highlighted the burden of rising medical expenses as retirees often need more frequent doctor visits. The governor noted that last year, retirees received reduced premiums ranging from $720 to $4,800 annually. The board will discuss further reductions for the TRS-Care Medicare Advantage plan in their July meeting, potentially easing financial strain for many retirees.

Supreme Court restores access to abortion pill mifepristone through telehealth, mail and pharmacies

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Monday restored broad access to the abortion pill mifepristone, blocking a ruling that had threatened to upend one of the main ways abortion is provided across the nation. The order signed by Justice Samuel Alito temporarily allows women seeking abortions to obtain the pill at pharmacies or through

Rudy Giuliani is recovering from pneumonia and is now breathing on his own, his spokesperson reported

NEW YORK — Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani is suffering from pneumonia and remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition, his spokesperson reported on Monday, hours after news broke that the Republican, who has been disbarred, was hospitalized. Spokesperson Ted Goodman stated that Giuliani is now breathing on his own and that his family is by his side. 'Please continue to send your prayers,' Goodman requested. This health update comes hours after President Donald Trump posted a message on social media confirming that his former advisor had been hospitalized.

Supreme Court Restores Mail Delivery of Abortion Pill Mifepristone for One Week

The U.S. Supreme Court has temporarily reinstated broad access to the abortion pill mifepristone, blocking a recent ruling that threatened its availability. This order, signed by Justice Samuel Alito, allows women seeking abortions to obtain the pill via pharmacies or by mail without an in-person doctor's visit. The ruling comes after a federal appeals court imposed new restrictions last week. Mifepristone, often used with misoprostol, is a common method for abortions in the U.S. The order will remain in effect for one week while both sides present their arguments, as the Court examines the issue further.

What is hantavirus, the possible cause of an outbreak on a cruise ship that has left three dead

A hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship has resulted in three deaths and several illnesses. Hantaviruses, which have existed for centuries, can cause severe respiratory issues and have been linked to outbreaks in Asia and Europe. The virus is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their droppings. Symptoms can resemble the flu, including fever and muscle aches, and can escalate to severe respiratory distress. While there is no specific treatment, early medical attention can improve survival rates. The World Health Organization is investigating the outbreak, with ongoing laboratory tests and epidemiological studies.

Three Dead from Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak on Atlantic Cruise Ship

Three passengers, including a married couple, have died aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship in the Atlantic due to a suspected hantavirus outbreak, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Laboratory tests confirmed one case of hantavirus infection, with five additional suspected cases. Among the six affected individuals, three have died, and one is in intensive care in South Africa. The ship, which departed from southern Argentina three weeks ago, had around 150 tourists onboard. The South African Ministry of Health is conducting contact tracing and stated that only two patients from the cruise are within their borders, urging the public not to panic.

Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani Hospitalized

Rudy Giuliani, the former mayor of New York City, is hospitalized in critical condition, as confirmed by his spokesperson on Sunday. Ted Goodman stated that the 81-year-old Giuliani is currently in the hospital, where he is in critical but stable condition. Goodman described Giuliani as a fighter who has faced every challenge in his life with unwavering strength and is now battling with that same resilience. He urged the public to join in prayer for Giuliani, referred to as the mayor of the United States. This is a developing story and will be updated with more information.

Heart of the Valley: STHS Wound Center helping treat diabetic patients

Ghirardelli Recalls Certain Powdered Drink Mixes Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination

The Ghirardelli Chocolate Company has voluntarily recalled certain powdered drink mixes due to potential salmonella contamination, according to an announcement posted on the FDA's website. The recall stems from a powdered milk recall initiated by California Dairies, Inc., over concerns that the milk powder may be contaminated with salmonella. This powdered milk was supplied to a third-party manufacturer and used as an ingredient in the drink mixes, according to statements from both the FDA and Ghirardelli. Most of the affected products were distributed to restaurants, food service industry clients, and other institutional customers. However, some consumers may have purchased them online. "Neither we, nor our third-party manufacturer, nor the powdered milk supplier have received any reports of illnesses or injuries related to this issue to date. Additionally, our own rigorous testing has not identified any affected powdered drink mixes," Ghirardelli stated in a recall alert on its website. The company noted that it has already removed a significant portion of the affected drink mixes and is working with partners to return or dispose of potentially contaminated products.

Infant Formula in the U.S. is 'Safe,' According to FDA Analysis

A new analysis of chemical substances in infant formula available in the United States has found reassuringly low levels of heavy metals, pesticides, and other potential contaminants, federal health officials reported on Wednesday. The review was conducted as part of the FDA’s Operation Stork Speed project, described as the 'largest and most rigorous' to date. The agency concluded that the infant formula supply is 'safe,' according to FDA officials and external experts. 'There’s no reason not to use any formula available' in the U.S., said Dr. Steven Abrams, a professor of pediatrics at the University of Texas at Austin, who reviewed the findings. FDA officials tested over 300 samples of commercial infant formula between 2023 and 2025 for heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury. They also screened for pesticides, plastic-related chemicals known as phthalates, and PFAS, sometimes referred to as 'forever chemicals.' The agency reported that contaminant levels were either undetectable or very low. Detected heavy metals were well below limits set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for drinking water, and 99% of samples showed no traces of pesticides. Additionally, the FDA found no detections for 25 of the 30 PFAS compounds analyzed.

The push for raw milk intensifies in 18 states despite a series of outbreaks

Blue Cross Blue Shield Settlement Payments of $2.67 Billion: What You Need to Know

Blue Cross Blue Shield subscribers may soon receive a check in the mail as part of a significant $2.67 billion settlement reached after years of litigation. The settlement, dating back to October 2020, alleged that the company violated antitrust laws by limiting competition among Blue Cross health insurance plans. Blue Cross denied all accusations of wrongdoing, maintaining that its decisions led to lower healthcare costs and greater access to health services. In addition to the settlement fund, the company agreed to implement 'changes in the way it conducts business' in a manner that, according to the plaintiffs, will increase competition in health insurance markets. According to the settlement administrator, the agreement has received final approval, and the initial distribution of payments will begin next month.

De La Cruz Leads Bipartisan Bill Targeting Fentanyl Deaths on College Campuses

Texas Border Business Texas Border Business WASHINGTON — Monica De La Cruz introduced the bipartisan Saving Lives on Campuses Act with Lou Correa, aiming to reduce overdose deaths among college students by requiring public colleges and universities to maintain opioid overdose rescue kits, including Narcan, on campus. Fentanyl overdose is the leading cause of death

Teen Vaping: The Risk Many Parents May Be Overlooking

Health experts are raising alarms about the dangers of e-cigarette use among minors, noting that while the overall number of users has declined, younger individuals are increasingly starting to use these products. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), no tobacco product is safe, and specialists warn that vaping can lead to rapid addiction. Dr. Carlos Medina, a family physician, explained that one of the biggest risks is the unknown content of these devices, stating, 'Sometimes they contain nicotine... but they may also contain marijuana or other substances... that's what's dangerous, especially when you don't know what's inside.' Additionally, side effects can be more severe in minors. 'It can cause sweating, rapid heartbeat, loss of color, vomiting... and in some cases even seizures,' he warned. The expert emphasized that young brains are more susceptible to addiction, explaining, 'It causes more addiction in kids... the brain doesn't fully develop until age 25.' Given this situation, he advises parents to talk openly with their children and 'especially discuss the risks of e-cigarettes,' he said. In Texas, since 2023, students caught using vape devices on school property can face immediate expulsion if the devices contain nicotine or THC. Furthermore, possession of these products by minors is illegal, and new restrictions targeting youth-oriented designs of these devices have been implemented as of September 2025. This article was originally reported for broadcast by Telemundo 40. Artificial intelligence tools assisted in creating the digital version, and a Telemundo Digital journalist edited the article for publication.

Investigation underway after confirmed measles case reported in Cameron County

CDC warns of drug-resistant salmonella infections linked to backyard poultry

Cameron County confirms a case of measles in the area

Region One to host community mental health event in Edinburg