Current Health News Briefs: From Pfizer Investigations to Mpox Vaccines

This brief encapsulates the latest health news, including China detaining AstraZeneca employees, Abbott's launch of a glucose monitor, World Bank's health initiative in the Pacific Islands, J&J's talc settlement update, Palestinian children receiving polio vaccinations, EU's mpox vaccine delivery to Congo, and Eli Lilly's partnership on RNA-based drugs.

China has detained five AstraZeneca employees as part of an investigation into potential illegal activities, Bloomberg News reported. AstraZeneca acknowledged some employees are under investigation but declined further comment.

Meanwhile, Abbott has launched its over-the-counter glucose monitor in the U.S., named Lingo, following Dexcom's similar product. This monitor aids adults not on insulin in managing blood sugar levels.

The Pacific Islands are tackling a severe health crisis, with World Bank President Ajay Banga advocating for region-wide services. Diabetes causes the most deaths in Fiji, with an amputation every 8.5 hours, according to the chief surgeon.

Johnson & Johnson added $1.1 billion to a proposed settlement for talc litigation, pushing the total to over $9 billion. The company aims to resolve multiple legal actions alleging its talc products caused cancer.

In Gaza, Palestinian children continue receiving polio vaccinations amid ongoing conflict. The U.N. agency UNRWA reported that the campaign, though complex, has inoculated 187,000 children so far.

The European Union delivered 100,000 mpox vaccine doses to Congo, marking the first of two shipments. This delivery aims to curb a significant outbreak that has led to a global public health emergency.

Eli Lilly has partnered with Genetic Leap to develop RNA-based drugs, leveraging AI technology to research genetic medicines.

(With inputs from agencies.)