The UN Security Council members voted unanimously to extend the mandate of a joint UN-African Union peacekeeping mission in the Darfur region of Sudan. The force, which gradually has been deployed to the region, is expected to reach 90% of its full operating complement by the end of the year.
Italy approves abortion drug
Despite visceral opposition from the Vatican, the Italian government approved the use of RU486, known as the abortion drug. The Italian Drug Agency ruled the drug cannot be sold over the counter but can be administered by doctors in hospitals. The drug has been opposed by the Catholic Church since its introduction in France 20 years ago.
Breastfeeding could save 1.3 mln child lives-WHO
New mothers are not given the help they need to successfully breastfeed their newborns, leading many to give up trying, the World Health Organization says. Breastfeeding helps strengthen infants’ immune systems, and broader use could save 1.3 million babies a year.
Mosquitoes deliver malaria ‘vaccine’ through bites
Mosquitoes carrying a live parasite vaccine for malaria deliver immunity to those they bite, according to results of a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. While the findings to do not represent a new vaccine, researchers said, they do demonstrate how parasites can be used to protect against infection.
Abortions Surge in China; Officials Cite Poor Sex Education
More than 13 million abortions are performed every year in China, health officials said. Chinese authorities blame a lack of education about contraception for the surging numbers, but some observers point to cultural preferences for boys and China’s one-child policy as major contributing factors.
No More Pro-Choice Protesters on the High Seas
A Dutch organization running a controversial sailing clinic for unwanted pregnancies has suspended operations over fears changes in Dutch law could see patients brought up on charges. Women on Waves has been providing abortion pills and counseling to women from countries where abortion procedures are illegal.
Germany: Panel Recommends Special Alarms after Winnenden
Following a school shooting in Germany in March that left 16 dead, a panel has recommended a number of safety measures, including special alarms, barricading equipment, permitting mobile phones in classrooms and sharing more information about “problem students” with the authorities.