The Centers for Disease Control have identified the first US-originated cases of malaria in over 20 years have been detected in Texas and Florida. Dr. Ben Springgate, with LSU Health in New Orleans, says if your travel plans include those places, there are meds to take before and after you go…but if you DO get infected…:

CUT 11  (08)        “…at the hospital.”

Malaria is contracted via mosquito bites.

A single vehicle crash on state Highway 22 in Livingston Parish Saturday took the life of a young Prairieville woman. State Police spokesman Trooper Chris Reed says 37-year-old Sarah Marshall went into the Amite River for yet unknown reasons. He says it’s a good idea to invest in equipment to help one escape a submerged car…:

CUT 04  (12)        “…situation.”

The cause of the crash is under investigation. Impairment has not been ruled out.

Good news if you’ve been wanting help giving up smoking. A new bill signed by Governor Edwards mandates your health insurance HAS to cover the cost of smoking cessation aid. Cancer Advocacy Group Executive Director Chad Landry believes the availability of treatment will help a large population of smokers in Louisiana…:

CUT 06(10)      “…there is.”

An estimated 24-percent of Louisianans still smoke tobacco. He hopes this new law will help lower that number.

Another new law signed by the Governor requires kids 16 and under have their parents’ permission in order to access social media accounts. According to the new law, a social media company should make “commercially reasonable efforts” to verify the age of Louisiana account holders and not allow minors to hold an account unless parental consent is given. The law also limits adults’ access to minors with whom they are not already connected on places like Facebook, Instagram and more.