Skip to main content
915 TLDR
Health
1 read

Surge in Valley Fever Cases Linked to Weather Changes in El Paso

KTSM••Dave Burge
Medical stethoscope representing healthcare news

Want the full story?

Read the complete article at KTSM

Read Original

AI Summary

A recent study from the University of Texas at El Paso reveals that Valley fever cases in El Paso have tripled over the last ten years, highlighting a concerning public health trend. Researchers found a strong correlation between the rise in cases and extreme weather conditions, particularly high winds and airborne dust. This increase poses significant health risks for residents, especially those with weakened immune systems. The findings underscore the need for increased awareness and preventive measures against Valley fever in the region.

Key Details: • Valley fever cases have tripled in El Paso over the past decade. • The study links the rise in cases to extreme weather and dust storms. • Residents, especially vulnerable populations, should be aware of symptoms and preventive measures.

health weather utep public-health valley-fever

People & Organizations

El PasoUTEPUniversity of Texas at El Paso

Related Articles

KVIA•Jun 9

Kenya Protests US Ebola Isolation Facility Amid Concerns Over Health Risks

Recent protests erupted in Kenya against a proposed US-funded isolation facility for Ebola patients, highlighting widespread public dissent. Demonstrators voiced concerns that the facility could expose Kenya to health risks, as the country has never reported an Ebola case. Despite a court order halting construction, the Kenyan government continues to support the project, citing longstanding US aid relationships. Critics argue that the plan reflects a double standard, with former Vice President Rigathi Gachagua emphasizing the unfairness of subjecting Kenya to risks that the US would not accept domestically. This situation mirrors a broader trend across Africa, where nations are increasingly rejecting perceived transactional agreements from the US under the Trump administration.

Health
1 min read
KTSM•Jun 8

UTEP Researchers Discover Potential of GLP-1 Drugs in Reducing Substance Abuse

A recent study conducted by the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) reveals that GLP-1 drugs, commonly used for weight loss, such as Ozempic, may have the potential to reduce substance abuse issues, including alcohol, opioid, nicotine, and cocaine disorders. Led by UTEP School of Pharmacy researchers Dr. Tadesse Abegaz and Dr. Gabriel Frietze, this research highlights a promising avenue for addressing addiction through existing medications. The implications of these findings could be significant for public health strategies aimed at combating substance use disorders in the community.

Health
1 min read
KVIA•Jun 8

Texas AG Launches Investigation into Heavy Metals in Protein Powders

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated an investigation into protein powder manufacturers due to concerns about the presence of heavy metals, including lead and cadmium, in their products. Recent tests revealed that nearly half of the protein powders examined exceeded safe limits for toxic heavy metals, with plant-based options showing significantly higher lead levels compared to dairy-based powders. The investigation will assess potential violations of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, focusing on whether companies misrepresented the safety of their products. This inquiry highlights the importance of clean protein sources for consumers, particularly in Texas, where health implications from heavy metal exposure can be severe.

Health
1 min read
KVIA•Jun 8

New World Screwworm Cases Rise in Texas, Including Dog Infection

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed two additional cases of New World screwworm (NWS) in Texas, bringing the total to four. One case was found in a dog in Andrews County, which is suspected to have been recently in Mexico, while another case was detected in a calf in La Salle County. In response to these findings, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has expanded a statewide disaster declaration and announced plans to establish a sterile fly facility in Edinburg to combat the NWS population. This facility aims to use a method that has previously proven effective in pest eradication.

Health
1 min read