Current Health News Updates: Drug Trials, Bird Flu, Genetic Disorders, and More

This summary provides key updates in the health sector, including AstraZeneca's unsuccessful breast cancer trial, bird flu symptoms in Missouri, Biohaven's drug achievements, Zevra Therapeutics' drug pricing, India's mpox case, a revived challenge to US drug price negotiations, Sanofi's growth insights, Novo Nordisk's price scrutiny, and mpox cases in Africa.

Key updates in the health sector have emerged, with AstraZeneca facing disappointment in a breast cancer drug trial. The experimental precision drug, developed with Japan's Daiichi Sankyo, did not significantly improve overall survival rates in its late-stage trial.

In Missouri, a second healthcare worker developed mild respiratory symptoms after contacting a bird flu patient, according to US officials. Notably, the cumulative number of individuals with symptoms has risen to three.

Biohaven saw a positive surge as their drug targeting a genetic nervous system disease met its main study goal, propelling shares upwards. The company now eyes a 2025 FDA application and potential market launch.

Zevra Therapeutics disclosed pricing for its rare genetic disorder drug, Miplyffa, which could cost up to $106,000 monthly based on dosage, potentially peaking at $1.3 million annually.

India recorded its first case of the fast-spreading mpox clade 1b, marking the initial instance in South Asia. The strain was confirmed in Kerala's Malappuram district.

An appeals court in the US revived a challenge against the nation's inaugural drug price negotiation law with Medicare. This case stems from pharmaceutical industry's contention and awaits further merit-based proceedings.

Sanofi CEO Paul Hudson shared optimistic projections for growth from new drugs, highlighting the company's bolstered R&D standing.

Novo Nordisk braced for a congressional inquiry into the high prices of weight loss and diabetes drugs, particularly Ozempic, amidst potential government price controls.

The WHO reported nearly 30,000 suspected mpox cases in Africa this year, predominantly in Congo, with over 800 deaths, underscoring the continent's health challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)