Headlines: Flu Peaks in North America, Measles Deaths Drop
GENEVA - The World Heath Organization reports that cases of the H1N1 flu have peaked in the U.S. Disease activity is declining in North America and has either recently peaked or is currently peaking in much of western and northern Europe. See WHO Pandemic Update Number 77.
Other news of interest in the world of health safety and recall:
- The WHO’s Measles Initiative reports that measles deaths worldwide fell by 78 percent between 2000 and 2008, from an estimated 733,000 in 2000 to 164,000 in 2008. All world regions, with the exception of one, have achieved the United Nations goal of reducing measles mortality by 90% from 2000 to 2010, two years ahead of target.
- Franklin Lakes, N.J.-based Medco Health Solutions, Inc. today said that its majority-owned subsidiary serving Germany, Europa Apotheek Venlo, has acquired shop-apotheke.com. The website is one of the country’s leading online OTC and healthcare products sites.
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Lt. Col. Eric M. Maroyka, Pharm.D., BCPS, has joined the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists as an officer in residence. This 12-month Army Training with Industry program is designed to provide a selected Army pharmacy officer with the opportunity to gain additional training and hands-on experience. Maroyka will work on projects and initiatives related to improving the safety and quality of the medication-use process in hospitals and health systems. “Lt. Col. Maroyka is a valuable addition to ASHP, as we work together to improve patient safety in hospitals and health systems,” said Henri R. Manasse, Jr., Ph.D., Sc.D., ASHP executive vice president and CEO, in a press release.
