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Michigan Voices: Seeking understanding after Trump's SOTU|Opinion
During the State of the Union Address, bad blood boiled over. Trump called Democrats “crazy.” Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Michigan, wore a \
Boutique hotel catering to gay travelers proposed for Northalsted
The proposal highlights the North Side neighborhood's profile as a key tourism magnet for the city.
US, Burkina Faso sign health cooperation memo
The United States and Burkina Faso signed a five-year bilateral health cooperation memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening regional health security and improving the African nation's ability to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, the U.S. State Department said on Wednesday.
Fortifying Health Systems and Countering Infectious Disease Threats Through the America First Global Health Strategy in Burkina Faso - United States Department of State
Today, the United States and Burkina Faso signed a five-year bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that reinforces regional health security in the Sahel while advancing Burkina Faso’s capacity to independently manage infectious disease threats before they reach our shores. This MOU reflects the Trump Administration’s commitment to protecting American health security while building […]
5 Business Technology Trends Leaders Can’t Ignore in 2026
AI is no longer about pilots and promise. Leaders must focus on execution, using agentic AI, smart automation and disciplined cloud and security strategies to deliver business value.
New App Detects the Radio Fingerprint of Smart Glasses and Warns You When Someone Is Using Them Nearby
Yves Jeanrenaud is a scholar and amateur software developer behind Nearby Glasses, an open-source smart glasses detection app.
Scientists Just Caught Trees Firing Off Ultraviolet Sparkles During Thunderstorms
Scientists have observed "coronae" on treetops for the first time, confirming the phenomenon occurs in the wild.
Photos: Pelicans vs. Warriors | Fans and Entertainment 2/24/26
Check out fan and entertainment photos from the New Orleans Pelicans vs. Golden State Warriors game on Tuesday, Feb. 24 during the 2025‑26 NBA season.
Science Policy Education Should Start on Campus
Although modern science has only been around for a few centuries, we’ve become quite adept at training students in the scientific method
Sens. Mullin and Sanders get into spat over fixing healthcare in America
Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., criticized Sen. Bernie Sanders, D-Vt., for the state of healthcare in the U.S. during a Senate hearing on the nomination of Dr. Casey Means for surgeon general.
New NFIB Survey Shows Rise in Industry-Specific Small Business Optimism
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 25, 2026) – The NFIB Research Center released an industry-specific quarterly Small Business Economic Trends survey highlighting the construction, manufacturing, retail, and services industries. According to the report, the Optimism Index increased from the previous quarter for
WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region and Pan American Health Organization sign agreement to strengthen hospital resilience
25 February 2026 (EMRO/PAHO)—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 hospitals safer and better prepared for health emergencies and disasters. At a time of growing instability and constrained resources, this collaboration positions hospitals as a dependable anchor for communities, ensuring they remain open, functional, and capable of delivering life-saving care when it matters most.
Scientists Used ’Dancing Molecules‘ to Heal Lab-Grown Mini-Spines. One Day, They Could Cure Paralysis.
By fine tuning the motion of molecules, scientists created an injectable therapy that encouraged the growth of neurites and neurons in damaged spinal organoids.
EU Nordic expansion: why would Iceland and Norway want in?
Trump’s tariffs and threats to seize Nato ally Greenland are fuelling support for joining the bloc, with its implied security as well as economic benefits
North Carolina businesses fall short in defense contracts
Last Thursday, I was at RTI International in RTP to hear Peter Singer talk about “The Story of the Future: What Trends Most Challenge National Security Leaders?” Singer, who grew up in Charlotte, has a doctorate from Harvard. He is Strategist and Senior Fellow at New America. He has been named by Defense News as […]
Voters react as Trump calls Dems 'crazy' for not applauding ban on secret teen gender transitions
Voters react in real time as President Donald Trump calls Democrats “crazy" during his State of the Union over a proposed ban on school gender transitions.
NASA study finds ancient life could survive 50 million years in Martian ice
Mars’ frozen ice caps may be time capsules for ancient life. Lab experiments show that key building blocks of proteins can survive tens of millions of years in pure ice, even under relentless cosmic radiation. Ice mixed with Martian-like soil, however, destroys organic material far more quickly. The findings point future missions toward drilling into clean, buried ice rather than studying rocks or dirt.
Medicine on the slopes: Caring for winter athletes
UNR Med’s Sports Medicine Fellowship trains physicians to treat winter sport injuries on the slopes and in clinics across Northern Nevada.
What Taking Short Stretch Breaks During the Day May Do for Your Blood Sugar and Joint Health
Stretching throughout the day could support blood sugar regulation and joint health. Here's what to know.
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.
Trump defends immigration crackdown at State of Union as approval ratings plummet
To defend an increasingly unpopular immigration crackdown during his State of the Union speech, President Trump highlighted the victims of crimes perpetuated by undocumented immigrants.
Battered clubs battle as Warriors hobble into Memphis
The Memphis Grizzlies are going through a difficult stretch because of the abundance of injuries, particularly at one key position.
Trump decries ‘crushing’ health costs, blames Dems
What President Donald Trump said about health care during the State of the Union.
Charleston businesses say city is 'a little too late' addressing downtown development fallout
Charleston’s small business owners say the city isn’t doing enough to help mitigate the negative impact two major downtown developments have caused.
Iran accuses US of spreading ‘big lies’ after Trump’s State of the Union address
President claimed during longest ever State of the Union speech that Tehran was building weapons that could strike the US
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.
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 […]
Key takeaways from President Trump's State of the Union address
President Trump delivered his first State of the Union address of his second term Tuesday night. We break down what he said, what his political messaging was, and how it previews the administration's goals through the midterm elections. We also analyze how the Democrats responded.This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, congressional reporter Sam Gringlas, senior political editor & correspondent Domenico Montanaro, and senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson.This podcast was produced and edited by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Special thanks to Kelsey Snell, Natalie Winston and Neil Tevault.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
Buried by Snow—and by Shaky Science
It feels like snowstorms are becoming more intense, but science tells us that we don’t really know, writes Roger Pielke Jr.
Seahawks' Schneider: 'Business as usual' with team for sale
Despite an ownership change looming, Seahawks GM John Schneider said it will be "business as usual" for the team during the offseason.
Boone Health Community to provide free heart screenings around mid-Missouri
Free heart-healthy screenings provided by the Boone Health Community Wellness team will begin today around mid-Missouri.
Seatmate politics - Live Updates
So much for interparty solidarity. Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), who earlier in the day telegraphed plans to sit together during the State of the Union, have evidently abandoned that idea. State of the UnionMassie wrote on X before Trump’s address that he was seated on the Republican side of the chamber. Khanna is sitting next to former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. But Reps. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) and Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.), who often work together, are seated together along with some other Republicans. Mia McCarthy contributed to this report.
Tourism, tariffs weigh on local small businesses as they await president’s remarks
Tourism and tariffs are shaping the outlook for many small business owners across the Las Vegas Valley, with impacts varying widely depending on what a business
40,000-year-old signs show humans were recording information long before writing
More than 40,000 years ago, Ice Age humans were carving repeated patterns of dots, lines, and crosses into tools and small ivory figurines. A new computational study of more than 3,000 of these Paleolithic signs reveals that they were not random decorations but structured sequences with measurable complexity. Surprisingly, their information density rivals that of proto-cuneiform, the earliest known writing system that emerged around 3,000 B.C.E.
Senate Democrats Again Block D.H.S. Funding, Demanding Enforcement Curbs
Democrats refused to allow a bill to reopen the Department of Homeland Security to move ahead without new restrictions on federal agents carrying out President Trump’s immigration enforcement drive.
Curiosity Blog, Sols 4812-4819: Back Into the Hollows
Written by Diana Hayes, Graduate student at York University, Toronto
New Volunteer Data from 143 Observatories Unveils the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse
On April 8, 2024, volunteers participating in NASA’s Eclipse Megamovie citizen science project all around the United States hurried to photograph the solar eclipse with the latest, greatest equipment, capturing groundbreaking images of the Sun’s corona.
WATCH LIVE: Democratic lawmakers join 'People's State of the Union' rally during Trump's address
Trump Leans on Congress to Address His False Claims of Voter Fraud
The State of the Union gives the president a high-profile chance to issue a call to action on election security legislation he has pressured Republicans to ram through over Democratic opposition.
Tommy Nelson announces new fiction series from Global Entertainment Stars Dude Perfect
NASHVILLE, Tenn., February 24, 2026--Tommy Nelson, an imprint of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, announced today a new middle grade fiction series from internet icons and leading sports entertainment company, Dude Perfect, known for their viral trick shots, epic battles, and wide-ranging family entertainment. Aimed at readers ages 8-12, the Dude Perfect + Panda series brings the beloved Dude Perfect personalities to middle school for new adventures featuring tricks, flips, fist bumps, and mo
Opioid Overdose Deaths: National Trends and Variation by Demographics and States
Opioid overdose deaths fell sharply from 2023 to 2024 (79,358 to 54,045), driven largely by decreases in fentanyl-involved deaths. Even after these declines, deaths remained above 2019, the year before opioid deaths increased sharply during the pandemic.
Live fact-checking Trump's 2026 State of the Union address
During the president's speech, our partners at PolitiFact will be providing live fact-checking here.
Photos: Pelicans vs. 76ers | Fans and Entertainment 2/21/26
Check out fan and entertainment photos from the New Orleans Pelicans vs. Philadelphia 76ers game on Saturday, Feb. 21 during the 2025‑26 NBA season.
NYC’s Award-Winning Nursing Homes Featured in New Episode of NYC Health + Hospitals Podcast The Remedy - NYC Health + Hospitals
New York, NY – NYC Health + Hospitals today released a new episode of its podcast, The Remedy, featuring leaders and health care providers from the
NASA’s PACE Satellite Provides New Pollution Measuring Product
NASA’s Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem (PACE) satellite, known for measuring tiny organisms in the ocean and particles in the atmosphere, has a new
Your next Mac Mini might be made in the US
It's the latest example of Tim Cook leaning into the made-in-America theme as Apple navigates tariffs during Trump's second term.
Sofia Vergara on How Her Mom Inspired Her Heart Health Mission
Sofia Vergara joins TODAY to talk about “America’s Got Talent” as it begins its 21st season, appearing in three Super Bowl commercials during one game, and how her mom’s experience with high blood pressure inspired her heart health mission to spread awareness about uACR tests that detect early kidney damage. (Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim)
Style and Politics: On “The National Security Strategy of the United States of America”
"We need to feel our culture, and history, and current system is better than all the others, while acting as though we don’t believe those things." The National Security Strategy of the United States of America may have its longest life as a particularly vivid example of the ways in which bad faith will always manifest in terrible prose,
Self-defense company finds major benefits after moving manufacturing from overseas to US
Byrna Technologies CEO Bryan Ganz moved manufacturing from South Africa to Indiana before President Donald Trump's tariffs, saying the company "correctly surmised" onshoring benefits.
Fire breaks out at Curtis Motor Sports in Mackinac County Monday night, no injuries
MACKINAC COUNTY, Mich., (WPBN/WGTU) -- A fire broke out Monday night, February 23, at Curtis Motor Sports in Mackinac County, prompting a response from multiple
This Washington, DC, rowhouse from the 1790s is on the market
The rowhouse in Washington, DC, was built in 1794, but has some modern flourishes. See the historic home.
What could Kroger Field entertainment district look like? Here are four options
During UK’s Board of Trustees meetings last week, the university provided the first glimpse of what a fan entertainment district near the football stadium could look like.
What others can learn from how Minnesota helped its most vulnerable residents during the ICE surge
The surge of federal immigration agents in Minnesota over the past few months left many people not only traumatized but financially hard up.
Norway’s Centuries-Long Watch on the Northern Lights
The nation’s northern region has led the scientific quest to understand the aurora borealis. This summer, a 10,000-antenna radar is expected to begin the next phase of exploration.
Spurs' Julian Champagnie: Buries five triples
Spurs' Julian Champagnie: Buries five triples
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.
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Tara Croft, the CEO of Baymatob, demonstrates placing the Oli sensor, which is wireless, on electrode tabs that help keep the system in place during birth on Monday, February 23,
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Dr. Cliff Moore, the chief medical officer at Women’s Hospital, holds the two Cardiotocography monitors that are currently used during delivery to monitor the heat rate and contractions on Monday,
Exclusive | Trump to Sell the Economy During State of the Union Address
The president is expected to argue that the country is “strong, prosperous and respected” as it enters its 250th year
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
A Meta AI security researcher said an OpenClaw agent ran amok on her inbox
The viral X post from an AI security researcher reads like satire. But it's really a word of warning about what can go wrong when handing tasks to an AI agent.
BAFTA and BBC apologize for racial slur during awards show
The British Academy Film Awards and BBC have apologized Monday for a racial slur that was broadcast during Sunday’s show while two stars of the film “Sinners” were onstage. The
What to Expect From the iPhone 17e Launching in March 2026
We've got just over a week to go until Apple's "Special Experience" on March 4, and we're expecting to see the iPhone 17e announced during the week of the event. The iPhone 17e will be the first update to the new low-cost iPhone 16e that Apple unveiled in February 2025. Design The iPhone 17e will look a lot like the iPhone 16e, featuring the same 6.1-inch display size, single-lens rear camera, and black and white color options.
What to expect at Tuesday's State of the Union speech
Trump's speech Tuesday night will come amid tariff confusion and a Department of Homeland Security funding fight
What to watch in the race for North Carolina's open Senate seat
North Carolina’s primary election is next week, and early voting is already underway. We discuss what to watch in the race for the state's open Senate seat and a competitive Democratic primary in the state's 4th congressional district.This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, political correspondent Ashley Lopez, and WUNC Capitol Bureau Chief Colin Campbell.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
Did Kansas basketball drop in latest USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll?
Kansas basketball split its games during the past week of play, beating Oklahoma State and losing vs Cincinnati. Here’s where it is now in the top 25.
10 storylines to watch during NFL combine week, including Ty Simpson, Rueben Bain, Maxx Crosby and more
There will be plenty of stories related to the combine, as well as the free agent and trade markets
7 Samsung flagships getting February 2026 security patch
Samsung has begun rolling out its February 2026 security update for seven of its flagship Galaxy devices. These devices are Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE, Galaxy Z TriFold, Galaxy Z Flip 6, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and Galaxy S24 FE. The latest update improves security, stability, and […]
How have you been affected by tariffs?
During the past year, President Donald Trump has imposed sweeping and steep tariffs on most imported goods with the intent to reduce trade deficits and bolster US-based manufacturing.
How Domino's is trying to double its business during a rough patch for big pizza rivals
Domino's Pizza posted better-than-expected earnings and said it is winning over lower-income diners with value offerings.
Pentagon Flags Risks of a Major Operation Against Iran
The warnings have been led by Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, within the Defense Department and during meetings of the National Security Council.
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.
Democrats demanding ICE reforms lose airport escorts in shutdown they triggered
The government shutdown hit TSA operations as the Department of Homeland Security activated emergency measures and suspended congressional escorts while keeping PreCheck operational.
Political Backlash After Pro-Palestine Comments at Berlin Awards Ceremony
A German cabinet minister walked out during one acceptance speech, and Berlin's conservative mayor said the ceremony was “misused for political destruction.”
AbbVie to invest $380 million to expand US manufacturing in Illinois
AbbVie on Monday said it would invest $380 million to build two new active pharmaceutical ingredient manufacturing facilities at its Illinois campus, expanding its domestic production capacity for its neuroscience and obesity medicines.
Three UW Students to Present Research During Science Café in Pinedale
Three University of Wyoming graduate students will present their research to the public during a Science Café Sunday, March 1, at 1:30 p.m. in Sublette County.
Matt Maiocco's NFL mock draft 1.0: 49ers select Missouri defensive end Zion Young with pick No. 27
Here is who NBC Sports Bay Area's Matt Maiocco has the San Francisco 49ers selecting in the first edition of his 2026 NFL mock draft.
Serena Williams brings athlete discipline to business leadership in ‘The CEO Club’ series
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Serena Williams may have traded match points for meetings, but the hustle doesn’t stop — even during interviews. When Williams logged onto Zoom for an interview with The Associated…
Serena Williams brings athlete discipline to business leadership in 'The CEO Club' series
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Serena Williams may have traded match points for meetings, but the hustle doesn’t stop — even during interviews.
AMC Entertainment Shares Tumble To New Low On 10% Drop In Attendance During Fourth Quarter
Attendance at AMC Entertainment movie theaters dropped 10% in the fourth quarter compared with the prior year, dragging down the company's results.
Can the ‘right’ food choices really treat a mental health condition?
A nourishing diet with nutrients that support brain health can support mental health treatment, but it’s not a stand-alone option, writes columnist Carrie Dennett.
A massive youth sports complex could be coming to this N.J. city under $6M deal
There's a deal to purchase 108 acres near a local college for a regional sports facility designed to boost tourism and create jobs.
iPhone 18 Pro Reportedly Enters Trial Production Stage
Apple's upcoming iPhone 18 Pro has entered production testing ahead of a launch later this year, a Chinese leaker reported today. In a Weibo post, the leaker account known as "Fixed Focus Digital" said the Pro models had already entered "mass-production testing," likely referring to late-stage manufacturing validation for the devices ahead of a September launch.
Xbox CEO Shares Her Three Favourite Games Of All Time, Along With Her Gamertag
It's a good list, and she's a Chrono Trigger fan too!
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.
When it comes to health insurance, federal dollars support more than ACA plans
Subsidies. Love ’em or hate them, they dominated the news during the Affordable Care Act’s sign-up season, and their reduction is now hitting many enrollees in the pocketbook.
Katie Porter holds ‘F--- TRUMP’ sign at California Democratic convention
Former Rep. Katie Porter, who is running for Golden State governor, said "F--- Trump" during remarks at the California Democratic Party state convention.
BBC and host apologize after racial slur shouted during BAFTA awards by guest with Tourette's
BAFTA and the BBC have apologized after a person with Tourette syndrome shouted a racial slur during the British Academy Film Awards.
Like Trump nationally, incumbent Colorado Dems lose sight of what matters to everyday people
My years as a high-level radioactive waste manager took me in and out of Washington, D.C. frequently during the 1990s. Following Newt Gingrich’s successful 1994 ouster of the Democratic majority in Congress, following their 40-year reign, I was surprised many Democratic lobbyists were willing to acknowledge privately Newt’s win was probably a good thing. There […]
Loftus-Cheek carried off after collision
England midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek suffers a head injury during AC Milan's defeat by Parma.
Nantwich sports photographer calls job 'ridiculous at times'
Photographer Simon Stacpoole has been capturing key moments in sport for 20 years.
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.
LeBron James still hasn't forgotten Jaylen Brown's criticism of Bronny during the Summer League
Pessimism Widespread Among Local Businesses
The latest BOSS Survey reveals widespread pessimism about Hawaii's economy, with 51% of business leaders expecting conditions to worsen in 2026. Though tourism companies remain notably more optimistic than other sectors.
iOS 26.3.1 Update for iPhones Coming Soon as 'Apple Experience' Nears
Apple's software engineers are testing iOS 26.3.1, according to the MacRumors visitor logs, which have been a reliable indicator of upcoming iOS versions. iOS 26.3.1 should be a minor update that fixes bugs and/or security vulnerabilities, and it will likely be released within the next two weeks. Last month, Apple released iOS 26.2.1 with bug fixes and support for the second-generation AirTag.
Simple blood test can forecast Alzheimer’s years before memory loss
Scientists have created a blood test that can estimate when Alzheimer’s symptoms are likely to begin. By measuring a protein called p-tau217, the model predicts symptom onset within roughly three to four years. The protein mirrors the silent buildup of amyloid and tau in the brain long before memory loss appears. This advance could speed up preventive drug trials and eventually guide personalized care.
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
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