Moderna Suspends Flu-COVID Vaccine Submission

In a surprising move, Moderna has decided to pull its licensing application for the combined seasonal influenza and COVID-19 mRNA vaccine, known as mRNA-1083. The company is now aiming to gather more efficacy data before resubmitting.

CDC Updates on COVID-19 Boosters

Just the day before, the FDA revised its recommendations for seasonal COVID-19 boosters, suggesting they are now only necessary for adults 65 and over and those at high risk due to health complications. This shift highlights the evolving understanding of booster requirements.

Gonorrhea Vaccination Campaign Launching in England

In a bid to combat a surge in gonorrhea cases—reportedly tripling since 2012—the NHS announced an innovative vaccination initiative aimed at high-risk groups. Starting this August, eligible individuals, particularly gay and bisexual men with a history of STIs, will receive the meningococcal B vaccine at local clinics.

Addressing a Gonorrhea Epidemic

This initiative arises amid alarming statistics: 85,000 gonorrhea cases were reported in 2023, marking the highest number since case tracking began in 1918. Sema Mandel, a consultant epidemiologist, called this vaccination program a groundbreaking intervention at a time when antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea is on the rise.

Innovations in Antibiotic Therapy: Zevtera Is Here

On another front, Innoviva Specialty Therapeutics has announced the commercial availability of Zevtera, a novel cephalosporin antibiotic effective against tough bacterial infections, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Approved by the FDA in April 2024, Zevtera offers new hope for treating serious conditions like bacteremia and community-acquired pneumonia.

Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 Uncovered

A recent study has shed light on the lingering effects of COVID-19, revealing that nearly half of hospitalized adults experience significant long-term symptoms. Among those tracked, as many as 44.5% reported ongoing fatigue a year after their initial infection. This research underscores the long-term health consequences of COVID-19, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring, especially for older patients and those with underlying health issues.

The Importance of Continued Monitoring

The findings emphasize the critical need for ongoing evaluation of COVID-19 survivors to better understand and manage the debilitating aftereffects of the disease, which go beyond initial recovery.