HHS invests $590 million in Moderna influenza vaccine development; Walgreens allegedly violated CSA, FCA; integrated care for depression yields extended health benefits – Morning Medical Update

HHS invests $590 million in Moderna mRNA-based pandemic influenza vaccines

The U.S. department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will provide Moderna with approximately $590 million to accelerate the development of mRNA-based pandemic influenza vaccines, and to enhance mRNA platform capabilities so that the U.S. is better prepared for emerging infectious diseases. The funding allows Moderna to accelerate development of an H5N1 (Avian flu) mRNA influenza vaccine.

“Avian flu variants have proven to be particularly unpredictable and dangerous to humans in the past. That is why this response has been a top priority for the Biden-Harris Administration and HHS,” said Xavier Becerra, secretary, HHS. “Accelerating the development of new vaccines will allow us to stay ahead and ensure that Americans have the tools they need to stay safe.”

Justice Department alleges Walgreens knowingly violated Controlled Substances, False Claims Acts

The U.S. Department of Justice alleges that since 2012, Walgreens, one of the country’s largest pharmacy chains with more than 8,000 pharmacies across the U.S., has knowingly filled millions of prescriptions for controlled substances that lacked a legitimate medical purpose, were invalid and/or were not issued in the usual course of professional practice.

In violation of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), Walgreens allegedly filled prescriptions were prescriptions for excessive quantities of opioids, early refills of opioids and prescriptions for the commonly abused “trinity,” comprised of opioids, benzodiazepines and muscle relaxants. Walgreens then allegedly sought reimbursement for these prescriptions for various federal health care programs in violation of the False Claims Act (FCA).

Integrated care for depression yields extended benefits

Incorporating mental health treatment into care for chronic conditions can significantly improve patient outcomes and benefits patient families, according to a RAND study conducted in Malawi, Africa. Researchers found that integrated depression care reduced depressive symptoms, improved daily functioning and even slightly lowered blood pressure among participants. Family members of treated patients also demonstrated better mental health and reduced burdens of caregiving. The study highlights the cost-effectiveness of this approach in low-resource settings, emphasizing its potential to enhance public health programs across the world.