Leprosy in Florida; Nose picking could be linked to higher rates of COVID; Medicare could save billions covering obesity meds - Morning Medical Update

Leprosy in Florida

Leprosy is now suspected to have a constant presence in central Florida as 16 cases have been reported this year. Previous research shows that leprosy comes from traveling outside of the United States, but not all the current cases match this description, leading researchers to wonder why.

Nose picking could be linked to higher rates of COVID

A new study from the Netherlands shows that nose-picking in health care workers is potentially related to higher rates of COVID. The study revealed that of the almost 85% of workers that picked their nose monthly, weekly, or daily, 17% contracted COVID.

Medicare could save billions covering obesity meds

Medicare coverage of obesity drugs could save taxpayers as much as $245 billion over a decade, according to new research by the USC Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics. The medication could reduce demand for hospital care and skilled nursing. Five Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved obesity drugs are currently on the market, but only 1% of Americans have access due to coverage limits.