What We're Reading: Ebola Vaccine; Mental Health Effect of Hurricanes; Amazon's Impact on Drug Prices

Ebola Vaccines Show Signs of Success

A study of 2 Ebola vaccines show promise in creating an antibody response. According to The Wall Street Journal, the study gave 500 patients in Liberia one vaccine, 500 patients a second vaccine, and 500 patients a placebo. Of the patients who received Merck’s Ebola vaccine, 83.7% developed antibodies to the virus while 70.8% of patients receiving the GlaxoSmithKline vaccine developed antibodies. Only 2.8% of patients on placebo developed antibodies. The response remained similar for 12 months after receiving the vaccine.

Hurricanes Leave Lingering Mental Health Issues

The aftermath of extreme weather events like a hurricane leaves long-term psychological injuries. This was seen after Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, and areas affected by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Maria, and Nate will need to keep an eye out for the hidden psychological effects that last longer term than the rest of the damage and the immediate injuries, reported POLITICO. In the months and years after the event, residents in the area will experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, domestic violence, divorce, murder, and suicide.

Amazon Could Lower Drug Costs

If Amazon expanded its reach to become a pharmacy, it could make moves to drive down drug costs. CNBC reported that Morgan Stanley explained Amazon would be able to open virtual retail pharmacies, establish relationships with manufacturers of generic drugs, and build partnerships with branded drug makers. Once those steps have been taken, consumers will save money on the rebate and discounts being retained by companies like pharmacy benefit managers. The online retail giant is expected to make a decision in the next 4 to 6 weeks.