What We’re Reading: Gun Violence Is a Public Health Crisis; COVID-19 Cases Surge Across the US; $4.1B Weight-Loss Drug Facility

US Surgeon General Declares Gun Violence a Public Health Crisis

US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has declared firearm violence a public health crisis, citing the alarming rate of gun deaths and injuries across the nation, according to Kaiser Health News. Murthy called for significant policy changes, including bans on assault weapons and universal background checks, alongside increased funding for gun violence research. With gun violence disproportionately affecting children and minorities, Murthy also emphasized the urgent need for a public health approach to mitigate this ongoing epidemic.

COVID-19 Cases Rise Across US, Driven by New Variants

COVID-19 cases are increasing in 39 states as the United States faces a summer surge, driven by the new KP.2, KP.3, and LB.1 variants, according to NBC News. California reported a notable rise in infections, with positive test rates jumping from 3% to 7.5% in a month. Additionally, experts advise vulnerable groups consider the latest vaccine, anticipating updated vaccines to come this fall to combat evolving variants.

Novo Nordisk Announces Historic Expansion in North Carolina with $4.1B Facility

Novo Nordisk plans to build a $4.1 billion facility in North Carolina, the state's largest life science investment ever, to increase production of its obesity and diabetes treatments, according to The Hill. The 56-acre site will add 1.4 million square feet of space, doubling the company’s regional capacity and creating 1000 new jobs by 2029. This expansion aims to meet the growing demand for Novo Nordisk’s weight-loss injectable treatments and serve millions more patients globally.