Latest KFF Health News Stories
Report: EU Gets Lower Price Than U.S. For Pfizer, CureVac Vaccines
The report from Reuters says that the lower price reflects the financial support given by the European Union to BioNTech for the drug’s development. News is on Mexico and Serbia, as well.
Lawmakers Push For Georgia To Free Detainees Over Gynecology Care
A letter from more than 100 congressional Democrats calls for the women to receive necessary certifications for a chance to apply for U-visas, which allow undocumented immigrants who have assisted law enforcement to apply to stay in the country legally, The Washington Post reports.
Vaping Rate Rising; Rate Of Decline in Cigarette Smoking Stalls
The adult smoking rate last saw a substantial drop in 2017. The new figures mean there are more than 34 million adult smokers in the U.S. About 11 million people are e-cigarette users. News is on the pandemic’s toll on smokers, a delay in the execution of a woman on death row, and more.
Rise In Cases Among TSA Employees Noted Nationwide Since October
Miami International has the largest number of cases — 157 — reported. News is on ways to keep yourself safe while navigating airports, and updates on sports and celebrities.
Sigh: More Schools Are Shifting Students Online
Some or most schools except K-8 are closing in places like New York City, Kentucky and Michigan. Many are receiving political pushback over whether closures help reduce infection spread.
Milwaukee Health Department Staffers Receiving Death Threats
“MHD staff have received death threats, have actively had their identity circulated over social media in posts or comments promoting aggressive acts, and had two individuals appear at an MHD location requesting access to such MHD staff,” the department said in a statement.
Promising News In The Fights Against Cancer And HIV
New research published this week suggests that combining a cancer vaccine with adjuvant molecules might help prevent the recurrence of melanoma. In AIDS developments, deaths related to HIV plunged from 2010 to 2018, data show.
90% Positive: Officials Request Field Hospital To Treat Infected Prisoners
In Carson City, Nevada, 470 prisoners out of 525 have tested positive at the Warm Springs Correctional Center, along with 55 staff members. News is on the Sequoia Project, Quality Payment Program and Nuance Communications.
Purdue Was Urged To Pay $14,000 Rebates Per Patient Hurt By Opioids, Documents Show
The suggestion was contained in a proposal made three years ago by McKinsey consultants, STAT reports.
Delirium May Be COVID Symptom For Elderly
A new study found that 28% of COVID-19 patients ages 65 and older at seven U.S. emergency departments had delirium. In some cases, it was their only symptom.
Federal Government Bets Big On New ApiJect Vaccine-Injection Device
The Trump administration approved a $590 million loan Thursday for the single-use, self-contained devices that are designed to be an alternative to traditional vials and syringes.
Hospitalized COVID Patients Shouldn’t Get Remdesivir, WHO Panel Advises
In other news on COVID treatments, the FDA on Thursday authorized the emergency use of baricitinib, a drug made by Eli Lilly. When used with remdesivir, the drug can reduce recovery time from COVID-19.
‘No National Shutdown,’ Biden Pledges As Transition Impasse Extends
The Biden team continues to plan for its coronavirus crisis response, though President-elect Joe Biden said Thursday: “Unfortunately, my administration hasn’t been able to get everything we need” with the ongoing transition delay.
Trump Administration Cuts Off Federal Reserve’s Emergency Lending Programs
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin says the pandemic relief program is no longer needed. The Federal Reserve opposed the move.
Trump Set To Release Two Rules Targeting Medicare Drug Costs
The “most favored nation” rule would tie what Medicare pays for prescription drugs to costs paid by other wealthy countries. The other regulation will limit rebates paid to pharmacy benefit managers. It’s unclear if the Biden administration will roll back the rules, which the pharmaceutical industry opposes.
Breaking Silence, White House Task Force Warns Of Massive COVID Spread
Urging vigilance until a mass vaccine program is in place, members of the White House coronavirus task force held its first press briefing since July.
California Issues Curfew, Work Safety Rules; New Hampshire Mandates Masks
As state and local leaders renew or add restrictions to try to contain the coronavirus spread, an analysis finds that the states with the least strict measures in place over the summer and early fall are now experiencing the worst outbreaks.
Deaths Rising Back Up To Tragic Levels Of The Spring
For the first time since May, daily coronavirus deaths passed 2,000 in the U.S. on Thursday, with no end in site as cases of new infections continue to also break records.
Don’t Travel, Limit Thanksgiving Gatherings, CDC Cautions Americans
A week ahead of the holiday, CDC issued guidance stating: “Postponing travel and staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others this year.” The agency also urged celebrating with just immediate household members.
Pfizer To Apply Today For Emergency Approval Of Its COVID Vaccine
Pfizer and its partner BioNtech will be the first to file for FDA review of its coronavirus vaccine — an evaluation that is expected to take several weeks.
