Latest KFF Health News Stories
Biogen’s Top Scientist Unexpectedly Quits
Stat reports that Al Sandrock’s departure from the Alzheimer’s drug-maker is a “surprise.” Sandrock oversaw all research and development and was the “face” of the Aduhelm effort. Meanwhile, the CEO of Emory Healthcare is stepping down.
Another Person Seems To Have Beaten HIV With Their Own Immune System
News outlets cover hopeful news that a second patient may have overcome an HIV infection “naturally,” boosting hope for a future cure for the virus. Other research links depression to heart health risks, plus more frequent ER visits during covid.
If You Have Covid, There’s a 50-50 Chance Your Symptoms Will Linger
Scientists have found that “long covid” may be a problem for at least 50% of people who’ve had the virus. Meanwhile, a National Institutes of Health study on the impacts of covid on children and young adults begins.
Poll: 72% Say Cops Are The Wrong Responders For Mental Health Crises
The Ipsos poll was made on behalf of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. In other news, Ohio sues Facebook-owner Meta over misleading the public on how it affects kids and a flu outbreak in the University of Michigan prompts a CDC investigation.
Trial Of Three Biggest Opioid Distributors Begins
The state of Washington seeks $95 billion from McKesson, Cardinal Health and AmerisourceBergen. In a separate case, pharmacy chains including CVS and Walgreens argue they were not to blame for the U.S. opioid epidemic.
FDA Pushes For More Covid Testing
The Food and Drug Administration revamped its policies in order, it says, to increase the volume of at-home and point-of-care diagnostic tests. In other news, Dr. Anthony Fauci, age 80, says he won’t retire until covid is licked. And Moderna makes an offer in its vaccine patent dispute with the National Institutes of Health.
Call To Arms Against Vaccine Misinformation ‘Superspreaders’
The Aspen Institute calls for new regulations on social media platforms, stronger, more consistent rules for misinformation purveyors and new investments in authoritative journalism and organizations that teach critical thinking and media literacy.
Push For Vaccine Mandates From Big Labor Unions
Three big labor groups push for vaccine mandates that go beyond what President Joe Biden is advancing.
Troubling Signs Point To Covid Advancing Among Unvaccinated
Even in highly vaccinated New England, covid cases are on the rise among unvaccinated residents. The key metric of hospitalizations is also increasing. In Texas, 28 hospitals are out intensive care beds; Michigan hospitalizations spike. The trendlines are even more concerning as Americans prepare to gather for the holidays.
More States Open Booster Shot Access To All Adults
Add Arkansas, West Virginia and New York City to the list of areas that aren’t waiting for federal regulatory approval to allow all residents 18 or older to get a covid vaccine booster. New Jersey’s governor says his state will likely widen eligibility too.
First Edition: November 16, 2021
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Viewpoints: Hearing Aids Postpone Cognitive Decline; Health Networks Useful To Halt Violence
Editorial writers delve into these public health issues.
Different Takes: Covid’s Negative Impact On Mental Health; What Is The Holdup On Booster Approval?
Opinion writers tackle these covid related topics.
Brazil Beats US In Full-Vaccination; UK Expands Boosters To Over 40s
Though President Jair Bolsonaro has decried vaccines, over 60% of Brazil’s population is now fully immunized — the U.S.’s figure remains at 59%. Meanwhile, in Portugal 98% of eligible people are vaccinated.
Kaiser Permanente Averts Worker Strike In Union Deal
An alliance of unions representing about 50,000 Kaiser Permanente staff agreed to a call off a strike after reaching a deal. Trustee investments, liens, Illinois’ troubled health program and the nursing staff shortage are also in the news.
North Carolina Seeing Rising Need For Mental Health Beds
Meanwhile, in Georgia, lawmakers are moving as a bipartisan group to improve mental health provisions in the state in the wake of the pandemic, trying to lift Georgia from 48th place on the Mental Health America ranking. L.A., Houston, Florida and live music are also in the news.
UK Study Finds It’s Safe To Co-Administer Flu And Covid Shots
The study involved 679 adults across the U.K. and found it was safe to co-administer the two vaccines — potentially freeing up health provider time and effort. Separately, a study linked higher risk of covid infection to non-white races.
Effectiveness Of Covid Vaccines Over Time Examined
Scientists compile evidence on the waning effectiveness of covid vaccines and which ones generate the most antibodies.
More Are Using By-Mail Abortion Pills, Despite Legal Grey Areas
The AP reports on the rise of by-mail abortion pills and how their use in states with anti-abortion laws may fall into legal grey areas. Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal reports on a rise of eating disorders among young boys. Rural pharmacies are in serious decline and a fun study of the infectious diseases James Bond could have got.
Covid Cases Still Not In Decline
Indeed, the seven-day average of new cases is edging back up. And pockets of covid infections are still overwhelming hospitals.
