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Coast mother pursuing nursing receives scholarship from Mississippi Business Women
Verlanda Ashley was selected by Mississippi Business Women, which partners with the college each year to award the scholarship to non-traditional female students experiencing hardships.
"I'm still angry at the game industry" CyberConnect2 CEO's efforts to shake up Japanese entertainment's stick-in-the-mud approach are driven by his love for Shonen Jump manga
In a recent interview, CyberConnect2 CEO Hiroshi Matsuyama talks about the "driving force" behind his creativity.
2 downtown retailers receive small-business enhancement grants
Two downtown Sioux Falls retailers are recipients of small-business grants to help grow their stores.
Ranking college football's deepest WR rooms in 2026: Texas, Miami, Indiana add through portal
Several CFP contenders added major pass-catching weapons through the transfer portal to build elite wide receiver groups
Letters to the Editor: I’ve received healthcare all over the world. The worst was in the U.S.
'Next time I need dental work, I'll fly to Buenos Aires, have my crown put on, stay a month, enjoy the malbec and I'll be money ahead,' writes an L.A. Times reader.
NFL receives no tush push ban proposal this year after effort to ban it failed
League executive Troy Vincent told reporters at the scouting combine in Indianapolis that the deadline for submissions has passed.
Broncos fans shouldn't overlook team's recent core signings
Even before free agency begins, the Broncos have the core of their roster under contract thanks to key extensions signed from 2024-2025.
Americans trust vaccines, school mandates, rejecting Trump agenda, Reuters/Ipsos poll finds
A bipartisan majority of Americans believe vaccines are safe and that children should receive them to attend school, according to a new Reuters/Ipsos poll, illustrating the challenges President Donald Trump's administration faces to win broad support for upending decades of health policy.
How Trump’s Economic Pitch at the State of the Union Echoes Biden’s
With the midterms approaching and polls showing unease about the economy, some of President Trump’s economic arguments sounded eerily like those of his predecessor.
Singapore's OCBC bank explores physical gold custody business for institutional, wealthy clients
Singapore's Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp is exploring setting up a custody business for physical gold geared toward institutional and high-net-worth clients, as demand for its app-based trading product accelerates, senior executives said on Wednesday.
Freed Venezuelan political prisoner reunites with niece at Trump’s State of the Union address
A Venezuelan opposition leader recently freed from prison reunited with his niece Tuesday during the State of the Union address, where President Donald Trump touted the US military operation that removed President Nicolás Maduro.
EU’s tech ban; China’s mysterious Nantianmen project: 7 science highlights
From a leading biologist leaving US for China to a semiconductor breakthrough, here are some highlights from SCMP’s recent science reporting.
Cipher Mining (CIFR) Jumps 12.5% on Strong Revenues, Business Transition
We recently published 10 Stocks Winning the Market. Cipher Mining Inc. (NASDAQ:CIFR) was one of the best performers on Tuesday. Cipher Mining saw its share prices jump by 12.48 percent on Tuesday to finish at $17.12 apiece as investors cheered the company’s strong bitcoin mining performance, while digesting its rebranding initiative to reflect its business […]
Memorial’s JJ Lowery claims Play of the Week
HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) – After counting up the votes, Memorial’s JJ Lowery’s finesse lay-up from week seven of Home Team Friday After the Buzzer claimed the Play of the Week. Lowery’s lay in received 98.8 percent of all of the votes to win the poll. During the play, Lowery comes down in transition attacks the defense […]
Trump's speech is longest State of the Union address in recent history
Speaking for more than an hour and 40 minutes, President Trump beat his previous record for longest speech given to a joint session of Congress.
Chiefs GM Brett Veach looking to extend CB Trent McDuffie
The Kansas City Chiefs have been clearing up cap space to make moves for the 2026 offseason as they recently restructured Patrick Mahomes’ contract and released defensive end Mike Danna.
Fact-checking Trump's false claims ahead of the State of the Union
Trump has spent the last year touting his accomplishments while mocking the record of his predecessor, former President Joe Biden. But much of this bluster is based on false and misleading claims — many of which are likely to be a part of the president's address to the nation.
32 Products That Will Probably Confuse Regular People But Delight The Weirdos
Only a certain kind of human is going to understand the necessity of this Froot Loops–inspired body oil and judgmental light-up frog, and that's more than okay.
Patients hit dead ends with insurance 'ghost networks.' Now, some are suing.
A recent lawsuit is challenging one company, EmblemHealth, over its so-called ghost network of mental health providers.
How One Gene Affects Alzheimer’s Risk | Science Friday
An estimated 500,000 people are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in the United States each year, but the causes and mechanisms of the condition remain a neurological mystery. A rece...
Eagles' A.J. Brown urges mental‑health awareness after string of suicides in NFL, Hollywood
Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown is urging people to seek help when they are struggling, sharing a message about mental health following several recent tragedies in sports and entertainment.
Barshop Institute to receive up to $38 million from ARPA-H, anchoring UT San Antonio as a national leader in aging and healthy longevity science - UT Health San Antonio
Contact: Steven Lee, (210) 450-3823, lees22@uthscsa.edu SAN ANTONIO, Feb. 24, 2026 – Positioning The University of Texas at San Antonio as a national anchor for aging and longevity science, its Sam and Ann Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies will receive up to $38 million in federal funding for the first nationwide clinical study […]
Barshop Institute to receive up to $38 million from ARPA-H, anchoring UT San Antonio as a national leader in aging and healthy longevity science - UT Health San Antonio
Contact: Steven Lee, (210) 450-3823, lees22@uthscsa.edu SAN ANTONIO, Feb. 24, 2026 – Positioning The University of Texas at San Antonio as a national anchor for aging and longevity science, its Sam and Ann Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies will receive up to $38 million in federal funding for the first nationwide clinical study […]
Atrium Health Navicent ends December visitor and masking restrictions at 7 a.m. tomorrow
Atrium Health Navicent will be easing masking and visitor policies amid the decline in respiratory illnesses.Starting tomorrow at 7 a.m., all Atrium Health loc
Boardman Trustee responds to recent business closures
The Primanti brothers in Boardman recently announced it has permanently closed. It’s joined by several other Boardman businesses that have closed their doors in the last couple of months.
1Password’s annual subscription plans are getting a price hike next month
A password manager is all but necessary these days, even as passkeys continue to gain traction. But if you’re a...
Why Are U.S. Healthcare Prices So High?
By Patrick Aguilar In announcing its “Great Healthcare Plan” in January 2026, the Trump administration became the latest in a long history of efforts by the U.S. government to rein in the soaring cost of health care. As a physician and professor studying the intersection of business and health, I ...
Google Messages more widely rolling out circular read receipts redesign
In August of 2024, Google Messages started testing a circular redesign of read receipts. There now looks to be wide beta availability...
NASA Satellites Show Where Outdoor Lights Worsen Allergy Season
Plants exposed to artificial lighting burst into bloom earlier and flower longer than plants exposed exclusively to natural sunlight. A recent study that
Galaxy S25 Ultra outsold its predecessor, leaves Galaxy S26 Ultra big shoes to fill
As Samsung prepares to announce the new Galaxy S26 series, recent sales data shows that the Galaxy S25 Ultra significantly...
Spears Business assistant professor Dinkel wins research awards for legal ethics papers
Dr. Christopher Dinkel, an assistant professor of legal studies in OSU’s Spears School of Business Department of Management, recently won regional and international awards for his legal ethics research. His findings have significant implications for both attorneys and business scholars.
First lady Melania and Donald Trump bringing separate guests to SOTU in break with precedent
First lady Melania Trump will bring guests to the State of the Union address representing her foster care and responsible AI platforms while President Donald Trump has invited his own set of guests – a move that marks a break from precedent.
How does politics influence interpretive signs at National Park Service sites?
The Trump administration recently ordered the National Park Service to remove interpretive signs that discuss slavery at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, following an executive order issued last year stating that public monuments should not “inappropriately disparage Americans” and instead “focus on the greatness of the achievements and progress of the American people.” A […]
Trump cites health care issues in Greenland saying he’s sending a hospital ship. His claims are off
President Donald Trump said in a Truth Social post Saturday that he would deploy a hospital ship to Greenland, alleging many people there are sick and not receiving care, even though both of the…
Recent studies challenge Kennedy’s claims about vaccines, Tylenol and antidepressants
The Trump administration has pledged to conduct its own studies, but research continues to contradict its claims.
The war on science: resisting and rebuilding at a crucial juncture
Peter Staley’s talk at the opening session of the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI 2026) in Denver was a grim post-mortem of one of the most challenging years in recent HIV history – an ‘annus horribilis’ – a phrase Queen Elizabeth II used to describe 1992 and The Lancet applied to 2025.
New ranking highlights NIH’s impact on breakthrough science at Duke
Duke University School of Medicine received more than $514 million in research funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2025, ranking 9th nationally among medical schools, according to new data from the Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research
AMC Entertainment Holdings (AMC) Posts Q4 Loss That Challenges Bullish Margin Narratives
AMC Entertainment Holdings (AMC) just posted its FY 2025 numbers with Q4 revenue of US$1,288.3 million, a basic EPS loss of US$0.25, and net income excluding extra items showing a loss of US$127.4 million, while trailing 12 month figures sit at US$4.8 billion of revenue, a basic EPS loss of US$1.34, and a net loss of US$632.4 million. Over recent quarters, the company has seen quarterly revenue move from US$862.5 million in Q1 2025 to between roughly US$1.3 billion and US$1.4 billion through...
The Nothing Phone 4a fixes my two biggest problems with the Nothing Phone 3
It might not look as unique, but I think Nothing's Phone 4a will be much more pocketable than its premium predecessor.
Evaluating PENN Entertainment (PENN) After Prolonged Share Price Weakness And A Widely Followed Undervaluation View
Stock performance snapshot and why PENN Entertainment is on the radar PENN Entertainment (PENN) is catching investor attention after recent trading left the stock at $12.17, with returns of 3.5% over the past week but double digit declines over the past month and past 3 months. See our latest analysis for PENN Entertainment. The recent 1 day share price return of 6.5% decline and 7 day share price return of 3.5% sit against a weaker backdrop, with a 30 day share price return of 14.7% decline,...
Legislators seek to help businesses with changes to SC's ballooning jobless fund
For the first time since the Great Recession, SC’s Republican-controlled Legislature could enact major changes to the state unemployment system.
New bill carves out public gift rule exception for first responders and mental health resources
There are restrictions on how and when public officials can receive gifts in Minnesota. But Monday, lawmakers discussed a bipartisan bill that would make sure those restrictions don't apply to mental health resources.
Lawmakers consider hiking fines for insurers who flaunt Georgia’s mental health parity law
Following recent fines for violations of mental health parity, Georgia advocates and lawmakers are pushing for stricter insurance compliance.
Arizona Cardinals WR Marvin Harrison Jr. 2026 offseason profile
A look at receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.'s season, his contract and what to expect in the offseason.
49ers reportedly expected to receive ‘big offers' for potential Mac Jones trade
Teams faced with a weak 2026 NFL Draft class of quarterbacks, like the Minnesota Vikings, reportedly are expected to make "big offers" for Mac Jones.
Trump says he's kept all of his campaign promises. PolitiFact's MAGA-Meter shows otherwise
President Donald Trump has said he already delivered on all he returned to office to do. The truth? Trump fulfilled a decent chunk of his domestic agenda in his first year, but many promises remain undelivered.
Las Vegas residents receive essential health, hygiene support during weekend event
Blake Shelton is set to play a private concert at Ole Red Nashville on April 29. Fans can enter to win tickets by visiting any Ole Red location nationwide betwe
The need for science diplomacy in a fragmenting world
After receiving a US science diplomacy prize, Chemistry World talks to Martyn Poliakoff and Richard Catlow about global scientific challenges, their love of technicians and being astounded by children's questions
Patel's appearance at U.S. men's hockey celebration renews scrutiny of FBI director's travels
The episode deepened questions about Patel's personal travels, a persistent storyline from the first year of his tenure not only because of their frequency but also because he had chastised his predecessor, Chris Wray, for his use of the FBI plane.
Neopets TTRPG Playtest Material Pulled for Controversial Material
The owners of the Neopets franchise recently pulled Neopets TTRPG playtest material due to it containing controversial material by developer Geekify.
'Xbox Is Being Sunsetted' — Seamus Blackley, One of the Creators of Xbox, Thinks Recent Shakeup Spells the End for Microsoft's Gaming Business
Amid the official statements and many tweets that followed one of the biggest shakeups ever at Xbox, one of its creators believes Microsoft’s true plan is to bring its gaming business to an end.
Inside the state lab guiding North Carolina’s measles response
With at least 23 measles cases reported in North Carolina since December, critical public health decisions begin inside the State Laboratory of Public Health in Raleigh. Scientists there confirm high-risk cases, shaping how officials notify the public and limit further spread.
Dave & Buster’s, other new businesses coming to Valley View Mall
The Valley View Mall has undergone several changes in recent years, with new businesses opening and established stores closing. Documents now show plans to bring a Dave & Buster’s to the mall.
Tarsus Reports Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2025 Financial Results and Recent Business Achievements
Generated full-year 2025 net product sales of XDEMVY® of $451.4 million, an increase of more than 150% year-over-year Providing expected XDEMVY peak sales potential of more than $2 billion Extending category-creating leadership with initiation of Phase 2 trial of TP-04 in ocular rosacea (OR) and plans to initiate a Phase 2 trial of TP-05 for Lyme disease prevention in Q2 2026 Management to host conference call today, February 23, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. PT / 4:30 p.m. ET IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 23, 2026
Economist: China’s politics, not prices, driving U.S. ag purchases
The chief commodities economist with StoneX Group says he’s recently become more optimistic about China buying more ag products from the United States. Arlan Suderman tells Brownfield President Xi Jinping is dealing with internal Chinese politics and he needs U.S. support. “My bias at this point is he will survive it, but in the meantime, […]
Bungie says 'no second chances' if you're caught cheating in Marathon
Anyone caught cheating in Marathon will receive a permanent ban from Bungie, which announced a one-and-done stance.
Letter: Missouri’s ‘business climate’ and the future of our communities
A Springfield business owner recently received a "business climate survey." He writes that businesses depend on strong public services and communities.
Spring sports roundup: Pelham edges McGill-Toolen in wild walk-off fashion
Check out the highlights from high-school spring sports from this weekend.
Another C.D.C. Vaccine Skeptic Steps Down
Dr. Ralph Abraham, the agency’s principal deputy director, has called the Covid vaccines “dangerous.” Other skeptics have recently left federal health roles.
My 8-year-old turned her drawings into a business
A parent shares how his daughter turned her drawings into a sticker business, earning over $5,000 while learning entrepreneurship and giving back.
Carline ’26 delivers W&M’s first Churchill Scholarship
Kate Carline '26 is the first William & Mary student to win a Churchill Scholarship. She will enroll at Cambridge University this fall. Eighteen scholarships in total were awarded but Carline is one of only two American students to receive the Kanders Churchill scholarship, devoted specifically to those who want to pursue the public policy implications of scientific research and discovery.
AMC Entertainment Holdings, Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Results
LEAWOOD, Kan., February 23, 2026--AMC Entertainment Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AMC) ("AMC" or "the Company") today reported results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2025, which have been posted to the Investor Relations section of AMC’s website at https://investor.amctheatres.com/.
AMC Entertainment Holdings, Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Results
AMC Entertainment Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AMC) (“AMC” or “the Company”) today reported results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2025, wh...
Hims & Hers Health, Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Financial Results
Revenue of approximately $2.35 billion, up 59% year-over-year in 2025 Net income of $128 million; Adjusted EBITDA of $318 million in 2025 Subscribers grew to over 2.5 million, up 13% year-over-year in 2025 Provides Q1 and full year 2026 guidance1, with full year 2026 revenue in the range of $2.7 billion to $2.9 billion and Adjusted EBITDA in the range of $300 million to $375 million Hims Hers Health, Inc. (“Hims Hers” or the “Company”, NYSE: HIMS), the leading health and wellness platform, today announced financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2025 in a shareholder letter that is posted at investors.hims.com. “More than 2.5 million subscribers now rely on us for a healthcare experience that is both accessible and deeply personal – and we believe we’re well on our way to becoming the global leader in consumer health,” said Andrew Dudum, co-founder and CEO. “In 2025, we made it possible for more customers across the world to depend on us
Two Argonne scientists receive 2025 DOE Early Career Research Awards
Two Argonne scientists, David Kaphan and Yong Zhao, have been named to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Early Career Research Program for separate projects in catalysis and nuclear physics.
Rural Health Transformation Program targets structural barriers across Missouri
Missouri will receive more than $216 million under a sweeping federal rural health initiative to modernize care in rural communities.
GO Pass: Road to Kalos
The GO Pass is a free, limited-time progression track where you earn rewards by collecting GO Points. All Trainers will receive GO Pass: Road to Kalos for free on Monday, February 23, at 10:00 a.m. local time. You can earn GO Points and rank up through Sunday, March 1, at 6:00 p.m. local time. From […]
Man posing as radiology sales rep arrested for allegedly stealing $14M in medical devices
Jacksonville, Florida, police first apprehended Michael J. Roberson on Feb. 10 following an investigation dating to December 2024.
From bakeries to beauty shops, Russian businesses are feeling the pain from a new wartime tax policy
Denis Maksimov’s bakery in suburban Moscow became famous overnight after he appeared on President Vladimir Putin’s annual call-in show in December.
From bakeries to beauty shops, Russian businesses are feeling the pain from a new wartime tax policy
Denis Maksimov’s bakery in suburban Moscow became famous overnight after he appeared on President Vladimir Putin’s annual call-in show in December. Standing in front of the bakery — called Mashenka, after his oldest daughter -– he pleaded with Putin via video to look into new tax reforms that are significantly increasing the burden on small businesses like his. As Putin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine marks four years, the mounting pressure on Russia’s economy is starting to show.
Why Steelers Should Bring Back Criminally Underrated Super Bowl Champion
The Pittsburgh Steelers are in the midst of a crucial offseason. After overhauling their coaching staff, it’s nearly time to address their roster via free agency, trades and the NFL Draft. While the Steelers are expected to focus on wide receiver, one area they shouldn’t overlook is running back. While Jaylen Warren is still under […]
Shedeur Sanders Receives Major Praise From Fellow Browns' Rookie
Cleveland Browns standout linebacker Carson Schwesinger heaps praise on fellow rookie Sheduer Sanders
Why Rider Strong was 'against' Matthew Lawrence joining 'Boy Meets World'
Rider Strong recently opened up to his 'Boy Meets World' costar Matthew Lawrence why he was initially 'against' the teen idol's casting on the show: 'We don't need him.'
John Sterling goes on the air to clarify recent health issue
On Sunday, legendary Yankees broadcaster John Sterling went on WFAN radio with Rickie Ricardo to talk about a recent personal health issue.
PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
IN THE SPOTLIGHT PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of KoreaThe Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPR Korea) is making significant progress in strengthening pandemic preparedness, with dedicated support from the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO) and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC).Aligned with the WHO Global Influenza Strategy and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework Partnership Contribution High‑Level Implementation Plan III (2024–2030), the country is strengthening its capacity to prepare for and respond to influenza and other respiratory threats. In early 2025, a core team from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) participated in a two‑day virtual workshop, which included a mini‑simulation exercise. The workshop was organized by WHO SEARO in collaboration with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Secretariat at WHO headquarters and the WHO Country Office for the DPRK. Read more A REGIONAL CONSULTATION GUIDES WHO SEARO IN DEVELOPING A ROADMAP FOR IMPLEMENTING THE PREPPAREDNESS AND RESILIENCE FOR EMERGING THREATS (PRET) INITIATIVE BASED RESPIRATORY PATHOGEN PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESSInfluenza and other respiratory pathogens with pandemic potential continue to pose major public health risks globally. To strengthen regional preparedness and response, Member States of the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR) convened in Colombo, Sri Lanka, to review and provide input on the draft Roadmap and Action Framework for Broad Respiratory Pathogen Pandemic Planning (2026–2031). Supported through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) funds, the proposed roadmap aims to advance robust, integrated preparedness and response capacities for influenza and other respiratory threats across SEAR. This work is aligned with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) initiative and the SEAR Strategic Roadmap on Health Security and Health System Resilience for Emergencies Read moreSRI LANKA’S USE OF ANTIVIRALS TO REDUCE THE SEASONAL INFLUENZA BURDEN Sri Lanka is strengthening its influenza response by placing greater emphasis on rapid testing, timely treatment, and integration with maternal health services. With support from WHO, the country is building a stronger evidence base on the burden of influenza and the value of vaccination, advancing a holistic approach to protect vulnerable populations and enhance pandemic preparedness. To reduce hospitalizations and deaths from seasonal influenza, Sri Lanka is taking proactive steps to expand access to rapid diagnostic testing and ensure prompt initiation of treatment. National clinical guidelines recommend the use of oseltamivir for individuals at high risk of complications, helping prevent severe illness and shorten the duration of infection. This strategy not only saves lives but also supports local pharmaceutical production, contributing to a reliable supply of antivirals for both seasonal outbreaks and future pandemics.Read moreBHUTAN BOOSTS PANDEMIC INFLUENZA READINESS WITH PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS FRAMEWORK PARTNERSHIP CONTRIBUTION SUPPORTED TRAINING AND SIMULATIONSOriginally developed in 2012, the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) has long served as Bhutan’s central framework for managing influenza threats. In 2024, the plan underwent a comprehensive update to reflect evolving global and regional guidance, lessons learned from the COVID‑19 pandemic, and new capacities developed under the PIP Framework. The revised NIPPRP is now more clearly aligned with Bhutan’s broader emergency and disaster risk management structures, ensuring a coordinated, whole‑of‑government approach to pandemic response. As part of efforts to strengthen national pandemic preparedness, Bhutan conducted three national‑level training sessions followed by simulation exercises on influenza pandemic preparedness and response at five sentinel hospitals between April and May 2025, with support from the PIP Partnership Contribution (PC). These activities brought together more than 140 health professionals and key partners from across the country, with a focus on operationalizing the updated NIPPRP and enhancing readiness at key frontline facilities. Read moreSTRENGTHENING INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE: WHO BRINGS TOGETHER INFLUENZA EXPERTS FROM SOUTH-EAST ASIA AND WESTERN PACIFIC REGIONSThe World Health Organization (WHO) convened the 18th Bi‑regional Meeting of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and Influenza Surveillance for the WHO South‑East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9–11 September 2025. Hosted by the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), the meeting brought together representatives from Member States, Territories, and Areas across both regions, alongside experts from the WHO Collaborating Centres for Reference and Research on Influenza in Australia and Japan, the WHO Collaborating Centre for Studies on the Ecology of Influenza in Animals in the United States, quadripartite partners (WOAH and FAO), and other technical counterparts. The consultation provided a platform to review progress, share experiences, and outline priorities for strengthening influenza and respiratory pathogen surveillance across the two WHO regions.Read moreNETWORKS AND TECHNICAL PARTNERSHIPSSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC READINES: SOUTH-EAST ASIA ADVANCES UNITY STUDIES UNDER THE PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS INITIATIVEThe WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies initiative, also known as Unity Studies, provides a standardized, globally coordinated framework to support these efforts. Originally developed for influenza and adapted during COVID-19, Unity Studies enable countries to conduct rapid, nationally led investigations and studies to assess transmissibility, severity, susceptibility, and intervention effectiveness. To better prepare for future influenza pandemics, WHO has recently launched a network of sites which will be ready to conduct these investigations and studies rapidly in the event of a pandemic, or epidemic of an emerging or re-emerging respiratory pathogen. The WHO South-East Asia Region now hosts six sites of WHO GISRS Unity Studies across the five countries including Sri Lanka, strengthening regional capacity for early pandemic investigations. From 13–16 July 2025 in Colombo, the Global Public Health Summit offered an opportunity to advance this agenda. Read moreSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS THROUGH UNITY STUDIES: REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS FROM INDIA IN WHO’S SOUTH-EAST ASIA REGION As countries continue to strengthen their pandemic preparedness through investments in resilient health systems during the interpandemic period, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies Global Initiative, Global Initiative, commonly known as Unity Studies, remains a vital framework for respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness. These standardized epidemiological protocols enable countries to rapidly generate high‑quality data on transmissibility, infection severity, population immunity, and the effectiveness of public health interventions. To highlight how Unity Studies protocols are being adapted and applied in national settings, WHO Headquarters, together with WHO Regional Offices, including the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), hosted a global webinar. The session showcased case studies from India and the United Kingdom (UK), demonstrating innovative approaches to respiratory virus surveillance and pandemic readiness. Read moreSTRENGTHENING REGIONAL INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE AND PREPAREDNESS: WHO SEARO HOSTS HIGH-LEVEL WEBINAR AMID RISING H5 THREATS In response to the increasing detection of avian influenza A(H5) cases in humans globally and within the WHO South‑East Asia Region, the WHO Regional Office for South‑East Asia (SEARO) convened a regional webinar on 25 July 2025 to review preparedness mechanisms, strengthen surveillance pathways, and promote timely reporting of unusual respiratory events. The virtual session brought together more than 50 participants from Ministries of Health, National Influenza Centres (NICs), National IHR Focal Points (NFPs), WHO Headquarters, WHO Country Offices across the Region, and WHO Collaborating Centres (CCs) for influenza. The webinar provided an opportunity to share situational updates, discuss surveillance gaps, and reinforce coordination mechanisms critical for early detection and rapid response to avian influenza threats. Read moreOther Key PIP Updates (July-December 2025)MEMBER STATES:Bangladesh drafted and conducted a series of Core Group Meetings in 2025 to review and update the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan for Respiratory Pathogens. In addition, the country carried out Rapid Response Team (RRT) trainings on seasonal and avian influenza and other re‑emerging infectious diseases. Bangladesh also updated its epidemiological data‑training programme for physicians at sentinel surveillance sites, using a revised epidemiological data‑collection tool.Bhutan revised and updated its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) in 2025 and developed a national Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for influenza outbreak management. DPR Korea conducted a nationwide simulation exercise in July 2025 to support the update of its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan (2019). This followed a PRET‑based virtual orientation and mini‑simulation exercise held in May 2025 by SEARO and the WHO PRET Secretariat. The comprehensive exercise, conducted across central and provincial levels, assessed strengths and gaps in pandemic influenza preparedness and response. The feedback gathered has been incorporated into the revised draft plan to address identified weaknesses and strengthen overall readiness.India conducted a targeted nationwide online re‑orientation training on review and updates to the influenza portal for all State Surveillance Officers (SSOs) and relevant officials using the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP). The training emphasized correct marking and reporting of influenza samples as “unsubtypable” or “not subtyped” where applicable, to ensure accurate national surveillance.Maldives conducted simulation exercises in three atolls based on its existing National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP). The country plans to conduct similar exercises in three additional atolls after updating the NPPRP in 2026. In addition, Maldives conducted training on FluID and FluMart as part of a broader data‑management training package for Ministry of Health and Health Protection Agency officials, aimed at improving routine reporting to WHO platforms and the DHIS2 system.In Myanmar, technical support was provided to the National Influenza Centre (NIC) through dedicated human‑resource support (January–December 2025) to sustain data management and laboratory detection capacity for influenza and other emerging and re‑emerging respiratory viruses. This support also included strengthening genomic sequencing capacity.Nepal conducted a consultative workshop on the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP) in July 2025. The workshop engaged key stakeholders from multiple sectors to review lessons from past pandemic responses, assess current mechanisms, and gather critical inputs for strengthening national preparedness. Key recommendations included revising the 2019 NPPRP and developing an updated Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan aligned with emerging risks, national priorities, and relevant international frameworks. Nepal also held a two day workshop dedicated to advancing the National Action Plan for Genomic Surveillance, aimed at reinforcing the country’s capacities for early detection and monitoring of emerging respiratory pathogens.Sri Lanka received the final report from WHO on the feasibility assessment for conducting an Influenza Burden of Disease (BoD) study in the country. The assessment, conducted from 28 April to 9 May 2025, included a desk review of existing data sources, document review, visits to sentinel surveillance sites, and key informant interviews. The study identified critical data sources required for a future BoD assessment, as well as their availability and quality. Officials from the Epidemiology Unit, the National Influenza Centre (NIC), and SARI/ILI sentinel hospitals across the country participated in the assessment.Timor Leste conducted on‑the‑job training and monitoring activities at two sentinel surveillance sites to strengthen surveillance and laboratory capacity for the detection of SARI, ILI, ARI, and other respiratory infections. REGIONAL OFFICE:SEARO conducted a Member States Consultation on the first draft of the Regional Roadmap and Strategic Action Framework for implementing WHO’s PRET‑based broad respiratory pathogen pandemic planning for 2026–2031. The consultation took place on 29–30 October 2025 during the final two days of the Regional PIP PC Annual Review and PRET Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Participants included representatives from Member States, WHO Country Offices, WHO SEARO, WHO Headquarters, partner agencies, and invited multidisciplinary technical experts. They reviewed the draft and provided detailed feedback, which has since been incorporated into a revised version. The consultation helped shape a shared regional vision for robust, PRET‑aligned pandemic preparedness, building on country‑level progress, addressing existing gaps and challenges, and aligning with global and regional health security frameworks. The publication is planned for release during the SEAR regional committee in 2026.SEARO documented the evolution of the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Planning process in the Region, tracing its development from its origins as a planning tool for responding to avian influenza outbreaks in 2006, through the experiences of the 2009 and 2019 pandemics, to the current status. The document outlines the way forward for respiratory pathogen pandemic planning across all 10 SEAR countries, aligning future national plans with WHO’s PRET Framework for broad respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness.The Infectious Hazard Management (IHM) Unit has drafted the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Guidance on Influenza Prevention and Control, aligned with the Global Influenza Strategy and other regional initiatives. The draft is currently under review. Although this technical product was developed in response to a request from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (MoPH‑DPRK), SEARO is finalizing it for use not only in DPRK but also across all Member States in the Region.The Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit, in collaboration with WHE/SEARO, completed a regional landscape analysis on key barriers, challenges, and opportunities for the introduction of seasonal influenza vaccination in WHO South‑East Asia Regional (SEAR) countries.Additionally, the Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit has completed a regional landscape analysis of influenza vaccine procurement systems across the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR).KEY MEETINGS AND PUBLICATIONSMEETINGS:Six-month progress review of the implementation of the PIP-PC workplans in SEAR, focusing on Outputs 1 and 2 for the period January to June 2025, and held virtually across three sessions on 4, 8, and 10 July 2025. Read moreAnnual Regional Meeting (Hybrid) on Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) and WHO’s Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Implementation in SEAR in Colombo, Sri Lanka, 27 to 30 October 2025. Read more18th Bi-regional Meeting (Virtual) of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and influenza surveillance in WHO South-East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9 to 11 September 2025. Read morePUBLICATIONSImplications of influenza A virus surveillance in Southeast Asian Region countries: a scoping review of approaches for the surveillance of swine influenza viruses at human-swine interfaces. Read moreAnnual South-East Asia regional meeting on operational planning for implementation of global influenza strategy and preparedness for respiratory viruses in 2025 Report on annual review meeting of implementation of pandemic influenza preparedness (PIP) partnership Contribution (PC) Fund in South-East Asia Region and the simulation exercise on PRET Status of influenza in who south-East Asia Region
Uniting to respond to mental health impacts of digital violence
Technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV), from doxxing and cyberstalking to cyberbullying and online harassment, is reshaping how women and girls navigate digital spaces. Globally, an estimated 23% of women have experienced digital violence. In Indonesia, reported cases of TFGBV reached 1,791 in 2024, a 40.8% increase from the previous year. Yet very few survivors seek help, leaving lasting effects on their mental health and wellbeing. As part of the multi-UN agencies UNiTE campaign for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health (MoH) co-hosted a talk show on 6 December 2025 to spotlight this urgent issue. The event brought together voices from Meta, the Indonesian Clinical Psychologist Association and Dr Vivi Syarif, a WHO Fides content creator, creating a cross-sectoral dialogue on the magnitude and mental health impact of digital violence. The talk show introduced psychological first aid as a vital initial intervention that communities can provide to survivors. This intervention aligns with the Psychological First Aid: Guide for Field Workers, a framework that has been standardized for over a decade. The "look, listen, link" approach focuses on ensuring safety and urgent needs, reassuring survivors and connecting them to appropriate services. In addition to this public health approach, Meta also outlined mechanisms to respond to digital violence and reaffirmed its commitment to building safer digital spaces by continuously updating community guidelines based on user feedback. Such collaborative discussions help connect community engagement initiatives with daily digital life. They empower audiences not only to understand how the health sector and industry are responding, but also to educate others, promote first-line support and encourage referrals to appropriate help. By fostering awareness and engagement, these dialogues strengthen collective resilience against digital violence. Written by Jessie O. Yunus, National Professional Officer (Gender, Equity, Rights and Disability Inclusion), WHO Indonesia
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