What We're Reading: CDC Reports Rising Use of Powerful Antibiotics

The CDC has found more widespread use of powerful antibiotics in hospitals. However, the trend is considered worrisome as overuse of antibiotics allows bacteria to become resistant to these treatments, according to The Wall Street Journal. From 2006 to 2012, there was a 37% increase in the use of a drug considered a last resort against certain bacteria.

Gilead Sciences is backing advocates who want states to cover expensive drugs. Bloomberg reported that the drug maker and its foundation has donated money to the people who helped build the case of a lawsuit filed by 2 patients with hepatitis C in Washington state. If the plaintiffs win, the state’s Medicaid program would be forced to cover high-cost treatments—which would benefit Gilead and other companies.

The CDC has lifted its Zika travel advisory for 1 zone in Florida, but the travel advisory for Miami Beach has tripled in size. The travel advisory was able to be lifted in the Wynwood area of Miami because there has been no evidence of new cases since early August, according to The Washington Post. Still, the CDC is recommending that women and men who traveled to the area from June 15 to September 18 wait at least 8 weeks before trying to get pregnant, even if they don’t have signs or symptoms of the virus.