Excess mortality in the EU decreased to 5.0% in November 2024, with 22,000 fewer deaths compared to November 2023. Seven EU countries reported negative excess mortality rates, while 20 countries experienced excess deaths, with Finland having the highest rate at 18.4%. Health systems face challenges due to staff shortages and low pay, with 31 essential drugs currently in shortage. EU Health Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi is tasked with presenting the Critical Medicines Act, but it is not yet on the agenda. Article complet (Euronews.com)