Last Updated on March 10, 2026 by Daily News Staff

Traveling to Mexico this spring? Here’s what to know about current advisories

(Tiffany Miller for ALG Vacations) For some travelers counting down to spring break, recent headlines about violence in parts of Mexico have sparked a new question: Should I cancel my trip? Travel advisors say they are seeing a surge in calls and emails from clients trying to determine whether developments in one region affect major resort areas elsewhere.

The questions follow several days of unrest in parts of Mexico after security operations targeting organized crime leaders prompted temporary flight disruptions and shelter-in-place guidance for U.S. government personnel in areas including Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. In this article, ALG Vacations explains what current travel advisories mean for spring break travelers heading to Mexico.

The U.S. State Department evaluates Mexico state by state, not as a single destination, and advisory levels vary by region. Many major beach destinations, including Cancun, Riviera Maya, Tulum and Los Cabos, are currently under a Level 2 advisory, which encourages travelers to exercise increased caution. It does not discourage travel.

Part of the confusion stems from geography. Puerto Vallarta, on the Pacific coast, is roughly 1,300 miles from Cancun and the Riviera Maya on the Caribbean side, about the distance between New York and Miami. Because advisories are assigned state by state, developments in one region do not automatically alter another.

In recent days, that uncertainty has translated into additional inquiries about whether specific resort areas are experiencing disruptions. U.S. Embassy security alerts issued this week indicate that temporary shelter-in-place guidance affecting Puerto Vallarta was lifted and that flight operations resumed. The advisory level for the Mexican state of Quintana Roo remains unchanged.

Some clients are asking about alternatives, advisors say, but many are continuing with their plans after reviewing official updates. Travel patterns often shift in response to breaking headlines, they add, before stabilizing as clearer information becomes available.

The State Department assigns travel advisories on a four-tier scale ranging from Level 1, exercise normal precautions, to Level 4, do not travel. While Level 2 encourages increased awareness, Level 3 and Level 4 carry stronger language discouraging or restricting travel.

Advisories are reviewed regularly and can be updated as conditions evolve. The State Department’s Mexico advisory page breaks down conditions by state, reflecting the country’s federal structure rather than issuing a single national designation. Travelers can also enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which provides real-time security updates and allows U.S. officials to contact citizens in an emergency.

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Embassy notices state that airports, hotels and tourism services in Quintana Roo are operating normally. Security conditions across Mexico vary widely by state, with some regions carrying higher advisories and others designated Level 1. Most destinations popular with U.S. travelers are currently classified as Level 2.

As spring break approaches, advisors say informed decision-making depends on reviewing the advisories assigned to a specific destination and monitoring official updates, rather than reacting to national headlines alone. Travel decisions ultimately depend on individual comfort levels, they add, but advisory levels are assigned regionally and should be evaluated accordingly.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:

ALG Vacations

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6 ways to keep your pets happy and healthy

(Family Features) Warmer weather means it’s time to spring clean, get grooming and prepare your pets’ diets to support them through the season.

Keep your furry friends happy and healthy this spring with these six tips from the experts at Zesty Paws, an award-winning pet supplement brand:

Give Skin and Coats a Little TLC: Many pets form winter coats during the colder months to help them stay warm and comfortable then shed the coats in the spring to prepare for warmer temperatures. Some pets may need extra help maintaining their shiny, healthy coats, especially if mats have formed in their fur or if they are breeds that develop a thick undercoat. Professional grooming, at-home brushing and regular bathing can all be helpful ways to speed up the process to remove some of the extra fur and decrease the prevalence of dander, dust and pollen that can attach to fur and skin through the season.

Add Seasonal Allergy Support with Supplements: Just like humans, furry friends can develop and experience seasonal allergies, too. Giving your pets’ immune systems some extra support can help ease some common allergy symptoms. Supplements like Zesty Paws Aller-Immune Bites for Cats and Aller-Immune Bites for Dogs are chewables that provide seasonal allergy support by aiding normal immune functions, skin health and gut flora, and may also help maintain normal histamine levels.

Ease Back into Exercise: The change in weather means more time for outdoor adventures with your pets, but don’t forget to cool down and warm up as you and your pets ease back into the season. Planning for short, leashed walks and timed play sessions can help your pets gradually prepare their hips and joints for fun, warm weather activities.

Watch Out for Pet Pests: Once temperatures start to rise, the tiny, creepy critters start crawling. Fleas, ticks and other pests can cause serious health concerns for pets. This spring, make sure your pest control programs are primed and ready for added protection. Talk to your veterinarian about the best routine and products for your pets.

Freshen Up Bedding and Bowls: It’s important to keep a clean environment by scrubbing, sweeping and vacuuming regularly to decrease allergens in the home. When you’re tackling this year’s spring cleaning, remember to put your pets’ bedding and bowls on the list, too. Updating or disinfecting your pets’ blankets, litter boxes, toys and other supplies is a good way to keep them feeling safe and comfortable in the home.

Schedule an Annual Vet Visit: Spring is a good time to schedule your pets’ annual vet visits. Make sure they’re up to date on all vaccinations, get their dental health checkups and re-evaluate nutrition plans.

Find more advice for keeping your pet healthy and happy at zestypaws.com.

SOURCE:
Zesty Paws

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Last Updated on March 9, 2026 by Daily News Staff

(Feature Impact) A new study found U.S. veterans exposed to Agent Orange face a higher risk of developing a rare and often overlooked form of melanoma that appears on the hands and feet, and under the nails.

Researchers reported in “JAMA Dermatology” that veterans with documented exposure to the herbicide had significantly higher odds of developing acral melanoma, a subtype of skin cancer that forms on the palms, soles and nail beds.

Unlike most melanomas, which are associated with ultraviolet radiation, acral melanoma develops in areas not typically exposed to the sun. It can resemble a bruise under a toenail or a dark patch on the bottom of a foot – locations that are easily missed and not commonly associated with skin cancer.

Because of its unusual appearance and location, acral melanoma is often diagnosed at later stages, when treatment is more difficult and survival rates are lower.

The researchers analyzed 20 years of Veterans Health Administration data, comparing more than 1,200 veterans diagnosed with acral melanoma with more than 5,000 veterans without melanoma. Veterans exposed to Agent Orange had about 30% higher odds of developing the disease.

The findings suggest Agent Orange may be an underrecognized risk factor for acral melanoma, particularly for veterans who may not view themselves as at risk for skin cancer because of limited sun exposure or darker skin tones.

“Identifying exposures that may increase risk can help inform earlier recognition and, ultimately, earlier diagnosis when treatment is most effective,” said Marc Hurlbert, chief executive officer of the Melanoma Research Alliance and a principal investigator on the study.

Senior author Dr. Rebecca I. Hartman of Brigham and Women’s Hospital said acral melanoma behaves differently from other melanomas and often responds less well to current therapies.

“Acral melanoma has a poorer prognosis than the more common cutaneous melanoma because it is often diagnosed at later stages,” Hartman said. “Identifying risk factors is critical to improving detection and outcomes.”

Agent Orange was used extensively during the Vietnam War and exposure has been linked to several cancers and chronic illnesses. These findings add to evidence the herbicide may also affect the skin in ways not reflected in traditional melanoma awareness efforts.

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Acral melanoma has also been associated with sex, race and ethnicity, and prior skin lesions. Researchers said the study supports treating the disease as distinct from sun-driven melanomas that dominate public education campaigns.

For veterans, the research highlights the importance of examining less visible areas of the body, including the bottoms of the feet, between the toes and under the nails. Changes in nail color, dark streaks or unexplained spots on the palms or soles should be evaluated by a health care provider, especially for those with known Agent Orange exposure.

Researchers said the findings could help guide future screening strategies for higher-risk populations and encourage further study of why acral melanoma differs biologically from other skin cancers.

Find more information at curemelanoma.org.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

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Melanoma Research Alliance

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

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