What We’re Reading: Novavax Ships Updated COVID-19 Vaccine; Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Syndrome; Walgreens Walkout

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Updated vaccines are on their way to US pharmacies; importance of early diagnosis and treatment for individuals at risk of cardiovascular disease; Walgreens pharmacists stage their own protest.

Novavax Ships Updated COVID-19 Vaccine Doses to US Pharmacies

The vaccine manufacturer Novavax has shipped millions of doses of its updated COVID-19 vaccine to US pharmacies following FDA authorization for emergency use in individuals aged 12 years and older, according to Reuters. While the vaccine was approved last week, some batches needed additional clearance before distribution. Novavax is counting on these commercial sales to bolster its financial stability, as manufacturing issues delayed its entry into the pandemic vaccine market enjoyed by mRNA vaccine rivals.

New Medical Condition Links Obesity, Diabetes, Heart, and Kidney Disease

The American Heart Association has officially recognized a new medical condition called Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Syndrome (CKM), signaling the strong connections between obesity, diabetes, and heart and kidney disease, according to NBC News. This syndrome affects multiple vital organs, including the heart, brain, kidneys, and liver, highlighting the interconnectedness of these health issues. Furthermore, promoting earlier diagnosis and treatment for those at high risk of cardiovascular disease emphasizes the need for interventions that target metabolic risk factors, such as abdominal fat, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar.

Walgreens Pharmacists Stage Nationwide Walkout Over Unsafe Working Conditions

Walgreens pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in the United States have launched a nationwide walkout, protesting unsafe working conditions, excessive demands, and inadequate staffing, according to USA Today. The walkout, organized by anonymous pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, follows a similar protest by CVS pharmacists in late September. Participants in the protest argued that the company prioritizes profit over patient care, leading to medication errors and risks to patient safety. Walgreens acknowledged the challenges faced by its staff and has promised investments in pharmacist wages and hiring bonuses.