Health Updates: Vaccine Stockpile, MS Therapy, Fraud Settlements, and More

Rich nations hold millions of mpox vaccines as Africa grapples with an outbreak, while the US FDA approves Roche's multiple sclerosis therapy. Walgreens settles fraud charges for $106.8 million. WHO approves mpox vaccine and establishes access schemes. China's health body advocates marriage and childbirth at appropriate ages to boost declining birth rates.

Rich nations have millions of mpox shots as Africa's outbreak spreads; Will they share?

Rich countries stock millions of vaccines that could combat Africa's mpox outbreak. Countries like Japan, the US, and Canada have these vaccines stockpiled in case of a smallpox resurgence but used some when mpox spread globally in 2022.

US FDA approves injectable version of Roche's multiple sclerosis therapy

The US FDA has approved Roche's subcutaneous injection therapy, Ocrevus Zunovo, for multiple sclerosis. This new form offers treatment options for centers unable to provide the IV version.

Walgreens paying $106.8 million to settle US prescription billing fraud charges

Walgreens will pay $106.8 million to settle charges of fraudulently billing the US government for unpicked prescriptions. The Justice Department's charges cover violations from 2009 to 2020.

WHO clears Bavarian Nordic's vaccine for mpox, sets up access scheme

The WHO has approved the first mpox vaccine and launched a scheme to provide vaccines, tests, and treatments to the world's poorest nations. The new initiative aims to help African countries hit hard by the virus, especially those neighboring the outbreak's origin, the Democratic Republic of Congo.

China's top health body urges marriage, childbirth at 'appropriate ages'

China's National Health Commission plans to advocate for marriage and childbirth at appropriate ages to address a declining birth rate. This campaign aims to promote positive views on family life.

(With inputs from agencies.)