Global Health Updates: Major Moves and Crucial Developments

Johnson & Johnson is acquiring V-Wave for up to $1.7 billion, Eli Lilly's Zepbound shows promise in reducing diabetes risk, Bavarian Nordic may increase mpox vaccine production, and WHO officials clarify mpox is not the new COVID. Also, Roche enhances lab testing for mpox, and Africa plans mpox vaccinations.

Johnson & Johnson announced its acquisition of V-Wave, a medical device company, for up to $1.7 billion in a strategic move to bolster its heart disease device segment. This includes a $600 million upfront payment with future contingent payments based on regulatory and commercial achievements.

Eli Lilly's weight-loss drug Zepbound has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in overweight or obese pre-diabetic adults after three years of weekly injections, according to new data released on Tuesday. Consequently, Lilly's stock surged by 4.4%, adding to a notable increase this year.

Bavarian Nordic's CEO, Paul Chaplin, revealed that the firm could boost mpox vaccine production shortly, depending on imminent discussions with the World Health Organization. These discussions will determine whether the company will proceed with 'risk' production without secured orders.

The World Health Organization reiterated that mpox, in any strain, is not the new COVID. Hans Kluge, WHO's regional director for Europe, emphasized the importance of collective action in controlling the spread of mpox during a U.N. media briefing on Tuesday.

In response to a recent mpox outbreak, Roche is working to increase global laboratory testing capacity. This comes as the WHO declared mpox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years, amidst the spread of a new variant.

African nations, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, are gearing up to start widespread mpox vaccinations. The Africa CDC is collaborating with various countries on logistics and communication to facilitate the deployment of vaccine doses pledged by the EU, Bavarian Nordic, the United States, and Japan.

(With inputs from agencies.)