U.S. hospitals are requiring employees to get vaccinated, though some healthcare workers continue to turn down the shot. More than 96% of doctors have been vaccinated, but other healthcare workers – often in rural areas – have much lower inoculation rates. (The New York Times)
State attorney generals have reached a $26 billion settlement with four companies over their role in the opioid epidemic. Drug distributors AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health and McKesson will spread their payments over 18 years, while Johnson & Johnson will spread its payment over nine years. (NPR)
Novartis ended the Phase IIb program for its “wild card” drug ECF843, which was studied for treatment of dry eye. Novartis acquired the drug from Lubris four years ago. (Endpoints News)
Some states are beginning to reimpose mask mandates as the Delta variant spreads and the number of cases surges anew. COVID-19 cases in the country increased by 55% in the last week. (CNBC Weekly)
Woebot has raised $90 million in a series B to continue developing bots for mental health conditions. The bots guide users through cognitive behavioral therapy lessons on their smartphones. (STAT)
