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Invisibility Is No Longer Harmless: Why Public Health Must Make Its Value Seen
Public health once prized invisibility, but amid workforce shortages and unstable funding, unseen impact becomes vulnerability. Value must be visible to be sustained.
Driving large-scale hearing and balance research through data science investments, and an update on NIDCD’s January Advisory Council meeting
Enabling access to large-scale multimodal databases is essential to advancing science across all institutes at NIH. As both datasets and analytical methods become more complex, proper data infrastructure can enable multidisciplinary research efforts at a scale greater than that of individual studies alone. In line with NIH-wide strategic plans, NIDCD is making investments in data science that address long-standing research gaps, provide important resources for the research community, and preserve and protect participant privacy and data security.
10 artists make Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominations for the first time
This year's list features 17 artists and groups — 10 of which are on the ballot for the first time.
OG Final Fantasy 7 Re-Release Sends Steam User Review Rating Plummeting to 'Mostly Negative'
Final Fantasy 7 — and by that, I mean the original, not the three-part remake — is clocking up negative reviews after developer Square Enix re-released the game on Steam with quality of life improvements that seem to have had the opposite intended effect.
Teetering US tech trade puts anchor on market as Nvidia test looms
The technology stock trade has stumbled out of the starting block in 2026, stemming from pressure from artificial intelligence disruption fears and the allure of groups that have lagged, but the broader market may struggle to make substantial gains without the heavyweight sector's help.
These are the 2026 CNBC Changemakers: See the full list of women transforming business
CNBC reveals the 2026 Changemakers list, an annual list spotlighting women whose accomplishments have left an indelible mark on the business world.
CNBC Changemakers: How we chose the 2026 list of women business leaders
The 2026 CNBC Changemakers list continues to evolve the definition of what it means to be a transformative woman leader.
Science Confirms It: Your 40s Are Officially the Most Exhausting Decade
Research highlights 4 major changes that make this period the most challenging part of midlife. But fear not, you won’t always be so unbelievably tired.
Reproductive health providers targeted by Trump ask for additional state funding
In order to protect Maine’s reproductive health care system, which has lost millions in federal funding over the last year, lawmakers are considering legislation to provide additional state support to protect against future changes. The bill, LD 335, sponsored by Rep. Amy Kuhn (D-Falmouth), would provide an annual $5 million allocation. Maine Family Planning and […]
WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region and Pan American Health Organization sign agreement to strengthen hospital resilience
Cairo, Egypt, 25 February 2026 — WHO’s Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) have signed a Memorandum of Arrangement to strengthen collaboration on making...
Commanders confirm Daron Payne's status for 2026
The Commanders make their stance on Daron Payne clear for the 2026 season.
Commanders LB Bobby Wagner makes decision on his future
What will Bobby Wagner do in 2026? Does he have a future in Washington?
Signs, silence, and skipping: How Democrats protested Trump's State of the Union
The pushback comes as Democrats enter a midterm year where they hope to make gains in the House and Senate.
Tecno revives modular Android devices with new concept phone
Chinese smartphone maker Tecno is channeling Project Ara with its latest Modular Phone concept, previewed ahead of MWC 2026.
WATCH: ‘We all know' Trump is not making your life more affordable, Spanberger says
In the official Democratic response to the president’s speech, Spanberger stressed how Trump’s policies on a host of daily issues, from health care to housing, hasn’t made life more affordable.
WATCH: ‘You killed Americans,’ lawmaker says as Trump asks Congress to stand for protecting citizens
While Republicans stood and applauded for two minutes, at least one Democratic lawmaker in the room shouted “you killed Americans,” a reference to two citizens shot and killed by federal agents in Minnesota in January.
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 check: Trump makes false claims in State of the Union address
President Donald Trump made false claims in his State of the Union address on Tuesday.
Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal plans to make 1 start for USA in World Baseball Classic; Paul Skenes available for multiple starts, knockout round
Steelers make eye-opening statement on potential Aaron Rodgers return
It appears Pittsburgh is in favor of a reunion.
Who will — and won't — be guests at the State of the Union address
Invitees at Tuesday night's address by President Trump include the gold-medalist men's U.S. hockey team, while Democratic lawmakers have invited several Epstein survivors.
Lawmakers react to Trump's State of the Union address
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) and other Republicans praised the president's speech, while Democrats slammed it and defended colleagues who protested.
Michigan House committee hears testimony alleging mold, drugs, lack of health care at women’s prison
Lawmakers heard alarming testimony Tuesday detailing years of alleged neglect, toxic mold, illegal drugs, and inadequate health care at Michigan’s only women’s prison, prompting calls for oversight and policy changes.
Old-style politics beats youthful ideals in Thai election
Deep rooted patronage makes it hard for political outsiders, a defeated People's Party MP tells the BBC.
2026 Small Business Summer
Small Business Summer is a program developed in partnership with Lendistry to recognize, support and celebrate small business owners in the LA area. Check out these Los Angeles-based small business owners who take pride in providing valuable products or services to their customers while also making a positive impact on their community. Nominate your business HERE
Guest List for State of the Union Includes Epstein Victims, Erika Kirk and U.S. Olympic Hockey Players
Democratic lawmakers invited victims of Jeffrey Epstein and of President Trump’s aggressive immigration crackdown.
Touchscreen OLED MacBook Pro Coming in 2026 With Dynamic Island and Redesigned macOS Controls
The rumored touchscreen OLED MacBook Pro that Apple has in development will adopt the iPhone's Dynamic Island and a hole-punch camera, reports Bloomberg. The Dynamic Island will replace the notch, leaving more available screen space for content. As with the iPhone's Dynamic Island, the Mac Dynamic Island will be interactive and it will contextually expand based on the app or Mac feature in use. Apple is updating macOS to make it more touch friendly.
30 lawmakers skipping Trump address for 'People's State of the Union'
Dozens of lawmakers and activists will attend a 'People's State of the Union' event, livestreamed as a counter to Trump's address.
Healthy Returns: What’s next for Novo Nordisk’s next-generation obesity drug CagriSema after trial miss
The Danish drugmaker released late-stage data showing that the upcoming injection CagriSema failed to match the weight loss of Eli Lilly’s Zepbound.
State of the Union offers Trump a chance to make the case for his foreign policy approach
President Donald Trump's State of the Union address is expected to tilt heavily on domestic issues, but it's also a chance for the Republican to make the case for his foreign policy efforts to Americans who are increasingly demonstrating uneasiness about his priorities.
Lakers could make shocking LeBron James decision amid exit rumors
LeBron James’ role on the Los Angeles Lakers decreased in the 2025-26 NBA season. With Luka Doncic taking the reins of the team, the purple and gold created a Big Three with James and Austin Reaves. Offensively, the trio has…
WATCH LIVE: Democratic lawmakers join 'People's State of the Union' rally during Trump's address
Giants notes: Trevor McDonald looks to follow Landen Roupp's path to roster spot
San Francisco Giants prospect Trevor McDonald looks like one of the 13 best arms in camp, giving him a good chance to make the Opening Day roster.
Erin Wright’s Hyperreal Paintings Make Luxury Living Weird
Rising L.A. painter Erin Wright subtly critiques the glamour of the perfect home.
Behind closed doors, GOP lawmaker questioned ‘disturbing’ East Wing demolition
Rep. Michael Turner, co-chair of the congressional Historic Preservation Caucus, wrote to a top White House aide about his “substantial concerns.”
Brazil's Embraer announces new variants of Praetor business jets
Brazilian planemaker Embraer announced on Tuesday new variants of its Praetor business jets as it seeks to capitalize on heated global demand for executive aircraft.
Celebrating excellence: Make a point to thank Vanderbilt Health residents and fellows this week
At Vanderbilt Health, there are currently more than 1,200 residents and fellows in more than 180 programs, contributing significantly to patient care.
Honored by the National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Awards: First Place for Podcast Host
I’m deeply honored to share that my podcast, Make Your Own Map, was recognized by the National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Awards (NAEJ) with
How Jeffrey Epstein Ingratiated Himself With Top Microsoft Executives
For more than two decades, the convicted sex offender developed a network at the tech giant, making him privy to succession discussions and other business.
The future of Xbox is vague and contradictory, with just a glimmer of hope
What to make of new Xbox CEO Asha Sharma? What is Phil Spencer's legacy? And is there hope for Xbox's future under Microsoft?
Growing number of Democrats skipping Trump's 2026 State of the Union
Democratic lawmakers are split on attending Donald Trump's State of the Union Tuesday, with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries offering options of "silent defiance" or absence.
‘I considered starting over as a farmer’: Masao Adachi on political cinema, revolution and Japan today
The director and ex-Japanese Red Army militant discusses his new film Escape, about the anarchist fugitive Satoshi Kirishima, the frustrations of radical film-making and progressive politics
Alameda police make arrests after business break-ins
Alameda police say several suspects have been arrested in connection with a string of commercial burglaries.
2026 NFL mock draft: Broncos make surprising 1st-round pick
The Broncos begin planning for the future in this 2026 NFL mock draft.
Tennessee lawmakers widen field for private school players in public school sports bill
A last-minute amendment may have just widened the field.Tennessee lawmakers in the Senate advanced a bill on Monday that would let certain private school studen
The ACA health coverage subsidy lapse hit 22 million people. Here are some of their stories
The lapse of enhanced subsidies for Affordable Care Act marketplace insurance has forced families to make difficult financial choices.
The Simpsons: Hit & Run and Prototype Developer Radical Entertainment Appears to Have Returned, and Fans Are Hyped for Fresh Remakes
Radical Entertainment, the studio responsible for Prototype and the beloved The Simpsons: Hit & Run, appears to be back under a new name: New Radical Games.
Join live: Watch IndyStar politics team breaks down final week of legislative session
Join IndyStar's politics team for some live analysis as Indiana's lawmakers convene for the final week of the 2026 legislative session.
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.
Interesting non-roster positional candidates at Yankees camp to watch
Paul DeJong, Braden Shewmake and Seth Brown are all longshots to make the active roster out of Yankees spring training.
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.
Senne Lammens: David Moyes makes bold claim about United goalkeeper
Manchester United registered a hard-fought win away to Everton, opening up a three-point lead over Chelsea and Liverpool.Benjamin Sesko came off the bench to score United’s winner with a first-time ...
Dear Annie: Politics is harming healthy friendship
Dear Annie: I’m a 64-year-old woman who thought making new friends at my age would be simple: find someone kind, show up, bring snacks, repeat.
Trump confronts his 3 main options on Iran — from diplomacy to trying to topple a regime
After ordering the largest American military buildup in the Middle East since the onset of the Iraq War, President Donald Trump now has a decision to make on Iran.
State lawmaker, DNR official crash during business group's snowmobile ride
A state lawmaker and a DNR official crashed during an annual snowmobile ride in late January hosted by Michigan's snowmobile and ORV association.
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.
Colorado lawmakers consider a bill to boost small businesses through a loan program
State lawmakers are considering a new bill (HB26-1003) aimed at helping more small businesses across Colorado.
Indiana moves on to crucial closing stretch, starting vs. Northwestern
Indiana forward Tucker DeVries described the Hoosiers' last four regular-season games as "massive for us trying to make that NCAA Tournament."
Oregon Democrats’ controversial plan to move transportation tax vote to May clears Senate after dayslong hold
“Both parties want the election date they want for partisan political reasons," said one Democratic lawmaker who voted for the bill.
Jeanine Pirro's office shelves pursuit of Democrats over social video, sources say
A federal grand jury in D.C. unanimously rejected the attempt to indict six lawmakers who told military and intelligence community members on social media not to obey unlawful orders.
To spotlight Trump cuts to health insurance, Welch brings Vermont lawmaker to the State of the Union
Both elected officials are striving to call attention to expired Obamacare subsidies and the high cost of health insurance they say only federal action can address.
KEA asks for lawmaker pledge against rising health insurance costs
The KEA and state retirement groups are the latest to sound the alarm over a state budget proposal that Republicans maintain is still a work in progress that needs more information.
Yet Another Live Service Game Bites the Dust, But PS5 Players Get a Full Refund
Meat your maker
Honor Magic V6’s mind-boggling battery is all but confirmed, and Samsung should be worried
The thin chassis and a giant battery of Honor’s upcoming foldable could make the Galaxy Z Fold 8 feel outdated.
2026 Business Leaders of the Year
Central Massachusetts is full of amazing professionals, each with their own unique skills, talents, and dedication to their companies, industries, and communities. You could make a strong case for hundreds of them to be considered as WBJ’s Business Leader of the Year. Yet, to actually win the award, you need to have that little something extra: a magic spark, an insight no one else sees, years of knowledge that pay off with the right decision at the right time, a leadership style inspiring people to follow, a push for a paradigm shift at a stagnant organization. Business Leader of the Year is WBJ’s oldest award, launched in 1982 when Herb Dunnington of First Safety Fund Bank won the sole award. In the decades since, BLOY has expanded to honor winners from different corners of the economy: small businesses, large businesses, nonprofits, innovation, families. Each of the six winners this year has that something special setting them apart as true leaders in our Central Massachusetts business community: Neelu Mohaghegh’s creativity, Nick Haritos’ compassion, Nicolette Sacco’s adaptability, Julie Bowditch’s energy, Sean Rose’s steadiness, the Vaccaro family’s culture. You can read more about each of them through the links below.
Crews, business owners work to make roads, sidewalks passable in Roxborough
Action News reporter Leland Pinder is in Roxborough, where city crews and business owners are working to clear the snow.
New York Yankees @ Pittsburgh Pirates: Ryan Yarbrough vs. Bubba Chandler
Ben Rice makes his spring debut down in Bradenton.
'View' makes major changes to broadcast as Whoopi Goldberg's chair left empty
'The View' makes major changes to live broadcast as Whoopi Goldberg's chair left empty amid a New York City blizzard.
Mz. Shyneka gives the latest in entertainment headlines
Reality TV is making headlines as Snookie revealed a new diagnosis, and former America's Next Top Model want reality TV laws. Plus, "Sinners" makes history at the Bafta awards
Deep in Antarctic ice, these particles can answer basic questions about the universe
In November, scientists arrived at the South Pole in planes outfitted with skis to pull off a construction project seven years in the making.
Quantum computers go high-dimensional with a four-state photon gate
The collaboration of TU Wien with research groups in China has resulted in a crucial building block for a new kind of quantum computer: The realization of a novel type of quantum logic gate makes it possible ...
Heart Health Fair
This week, we’re hosting our Heart Health Fair, providing free health education and screenings! Make sure to catch Kelli Watson, our Community Outreach Nurse and Health Educator, as she discusses event details with WHSV-TV3’s Mike Staley. https://www.whsv.com/video/2026/02/11/now-3-heart-health-fair/
Lawmakers call on Hochul to support repowering NRG plant in Dunkirk
Sen. George Borrello, Congressman Nick Langworthy, and Assemblyman Andrew Molitor are leading the charge.
Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto pitching preparation takes different forms
Before the Dodgers played the Padres on Sunday in Peoria, morning work at Camelback Ranch included both Shohei Ohtani and Edwin Díaz pitching to hitters. Ohtani did not make the trip to play in Peoria and be the designated hitter in part because he pitched two simulated innings against Dodgers hitters in his final day […]
Opinion | An arbitrary rule change is threatening America’s health care system
An ’80s-inspired student loan tweak will make it harder to enter advanced nursing roles.
‘Inside the Situation Room’ Bridges the Gap Between Politics and Academia
Columbia SIPA Dean Keren Yarhi-Milo and Secretary Hillary Clinton co-edited a book that brings readers into the room where leaders make decisions in times of crisis.
Downtown restaurant founder makes urgent plea to business community
Hell’s Kitchen’s Cynthia Gerdes calls on CEOs to save local restaurants.
Merck to create separate cancer business to offset Keytruda patent loss, WSJ reports
Drugmaker Merck is separating its human-health business into two divisions to offset pressures related to the patent loss of its top-selling drug Keytruda, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday.
'Small margins cost titles'
Fair play to the Livi goalkeeper though but his MOTM says it all. Stewart: There was large parts of that game where the Rangers players looked like "if we turn up we'll win" which I felt was quite obvious. Livingston didn't play that well, we made them look like a top six team and that's not what makes teams title contenders.
Robin Vos looks back his tenure as Wisconsin's longest serving speaker
As Wisconsin's longest-serving Assembly speaker prepares to step away, his advice to lawmakers moving forward revolves around common ground.
Exclusive | Merck Creates Separate Cancer Business as Sales Pressure Looms
The drugmaker is splitting its pharmaceuticals unit to bolster product launches before a crucial patent loss.
The Tennessee Legislature gets up in your spiritual business
Rep. Gino Bulso, a Brentwood Republican, is one of several Tennessee lawmakers pushing religion bills in the legislative sesison.
Meet the 20 most successful M&A bankers of 2025
The top US merger banker last year hails from Wells Fargo. Meet him and 19 other dealmakers who who shaped the $4.6 trillion M&A comeback.
Health care reform might be a focus in midterms. For Congress, pursuing it will be an uphill climb
Lawmakers will likely have a lot to say about health care this year. Paradoxically, they probably won't accomplish much on the subject.
Galaxy S26 Ultra will change how you put the S Pen in its slot
Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra may require inserting the S Pen only one way. Inserting it any other way makes the stylus protrude.
New Jersey regulators take first step to reform electric utility business model
Performance-based ratemaking, multi-year rate plans and lower utility returns are all options to be considered, according to the Board of Public Utilities, which approved hiring a consultant to assist a potential overhaul.
Watch Clippers fan win $10,000 after making half-court shot
A fan of the Los Angeles Clippers had an unforgettable time on Sunday after taking home $10,000 during halftime.
Highlights! Shields Pummels Crews-Dezurn In Wild Brawl
The No. 1 pound-for-pound female boxer in the world, and self-proclaimed GWOAT, Claressa Shields, was back in action last night (Sun., Feb, 22, 2026) against Franchon Crews-Dezurn in Detroit, Michigan in a rematch 10 years in the making. From the jump, the two ladies wasted no times getting acquainted once again as they each channeled […]
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.
Hornets' LaMelo Ball: Makes 10 threes in win
Hornets' LaMelo Ball: Makes 10 threes in win
Budget, housing, business development: Concord City Council sets its priorities
Responsible monetary decisions. Clear and widely disseminated communication with the public, especially on the city’s finances and taxes. Helping people keep their homes and find new ones. Regulatory and cultural changes to make it easier for businesses and development, and investments in the roads, sewers and other infrastructure to support them. These pursuits are what […]
Kyle Tucker makes Dodgers spring debut in win over Padres
Though Tucker only took two at-bats Sunday, he said he felt good about both.
Your Personal Free Netflix and other Top 5 Tech you Absolutely Need in 2026
Last year I put together a list of products everyone absolutely needed to own in 2025. It included basic stuff, AirTags, GaN chargers, and even some slightly complex gadgets like NAS devices to help you cut the cord on cloud storage subscriptions. This year's list expands on the same philosophy from last year - make
A product manager on why Chinese AI products are different
An AI product manager who worked at a Chinese tech giant explains what makes Chinese AI different from the West.
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
Jacks of All Trades: BC Student Duo Launches Magic Business
“Once I did a trick and I found out [Alden] also knew some tricks, I was like, ‘Let’s make some up,’ like, ‘Let’s figure some more out,’” Dhane said. “This would be really fun to kind of go out and just do magic to people.”
Newsmakers: New hires for Southern NH Health, Montagne Powers
Southern NH Health hires Baldi