Weekly health news roundup: From Tamiflu controversy, to new hepatitis C cure.
International health news
- Millions wasted on flu drug – Tamiflu, stockpiled by governments in case of a major flu outbreak, is no better than simple paracetamol claims a controversial study.
- European Work Directive risks care – Since 2009, regulations limiting the number of hours junior doctors can work means they have 128 fewer days of experience.
- New hepatitis C cure sees 95% success rate – The experimental drug, if approved, could compete with current treatment which costs $1,000 a day.
Health advice
- Optimism good for your heart – If you’re over 50 and a ‘glass half full’ person you are at lower risk of heart failure, says a new study.
Country-specific health
- Uganda: Trade in fake HIV certificates – Stigma is forcing job-seekers to buy fake certificates proving they do not have HIV.
- USA: Infectious TB patient forced to stay home – A TB sufferers who defied orders to stay home to prevent spreading the disease must now wear an ankle tracker.
- South Korea: State insurer sues tobacco companies – Three major tobacco companies are to be sued for $52m in damages for treating tobacco-related illnesses.