WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

Bavarian Nordic's mpox vaccine approved by EU for adolescents, aiding outbreak control in Africa. WHO declares mpox a global health emergency, with children vulnerable. JYNNEOS approved by FDA for adults, EUA for adolescents in 2022 outbreak. EMA's CHMP approval based on recent data. DRC not planning to vaccinate under-18s initially. KM Biologics' vaccine usable for children in Japan.

FIFA launches 'Suspect and Protect' concussion awareness campaign in partnership with WHO, aiming to raise awareness of concussion as a traumatic brain injury. The campaign, endorsed by players, coaches, and team doctors, focuses on recognizing symptoms, which may take up to 72 hours to appear, and ensuring safe return to play. Resources are distributed globally and to FIFA Member Associations.

Researchers from MU-JHU urge Ugandan government and partners to support access to Lenacapavir, a 100% effective HIV prevention drug expected by late 2024. Dr. Flavia Matovu Kiweewa highlights cost concerns and calls for WHO, NDA, and MOH to fast-track approval. Noah Kiwanuka advises continued use of current prevention methods until Lenacapavir's availability. The PURPOSE 1 study suggests Lenacapavir's benefits extend beyond high-risk groups, and Dr. Herbert Kadama clarifies its distinct use from PrEP.

Insights for COVID-19 in 2023 include studies on long COVID prevalence, impact on quality of life, rehabilitation interventions, and mental health support. Key findings highlight the need for effective telerehabilitation programs and psychological interventions to manage persistent symptoms and improve patient outcomes.

1-year adjuvant trastuzumab in ERBB2-positive breast cancer patients improved DFS compared to 9-week treatment, with 5-year DFS rates of 90.7% and 87.7%, respectively. Multivariable analysis indicated death risk was associated with positive axillary nodes, age, and disease stage, but not ER status or treatment group. The SOLD trial's findings align with the ShortHER trial, suggesting no interaction between treatment group and axillary nodal metastasis category.

Off-patent medicines, comprising 80% of global prescriptions, sustain healthcare through lower prices (up to 85% less) due to competition and reduced costs. They undergo rigorous testing for quality and efficacy, crucial for treatments from minor infections to advanced care, exemplified by antibiotics. The World Health Organization highlights the affordability barrier, especially in low-income countries where medicine costs can reach 66% of healthcare budgets.

Valneva SE submits label extension applications to EMA and Health Canada to expand IXCHIQ® chikungunya vaccine use to adolescents aged 12-17, with 2-year antibody persistence data included. The vaccine is currently approved for individuals 18 and older in the U.S., Europe, and Canada, with first sales anticipated in Q4 2024. Valneva also expects marketing authorization in Brazil and expanded access in Low Middle-Income Countries with CEPI funding.

Apple's latest updates to Apple Watch and AirPods Pro 2 include sleep apnea detection and hearing aid capabilities, approved by the FDA.