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After tariffs and inflation, small businesses face another problem: higher gas prices
John Andrews, a South Carolina-based chef who runs a meal delivery service, estimates he drives over 100 miles every week to deliver fresh home-cooked meals to his clients.
Major US trade groups pressing Trump to give tariff refunds 'en masse'
The groups say the refunds are "existential" for small businesses and startups.
Judge Orders Government to Begin Refunding More than $130 Billion in Tariffs
Over 2,000 lawsuits have been filed by companies in the court seeking to recoup their money after the Supreme Court invalidated tariffs last month.
Small business owners: tell us how Trump’s tariff war has affected you
Trump’s sweeping tariffs have left many businesses facing higher costs and uncertainty. We want to hear how smaller companies are navigating the fallout
Narain Batra: The politics of ‘after Trump’
The real question is not who comes after Trump but whether the conditions that produced him will truly change.
There is little US LNG producers can do to immediately replace lost Qatari cargoes
The U.S. has little spare capacity to quickly lift output of liquefied natural gas and offset lost supply after Qatar halted production due to the conflict in the Middle East, according to Reuters calculations and industry analysts.
Israel’s ‘Iron Beam’: why laser weapons are no longer science fiction
‘Directed energy weapons’ are a cheap way to hit a lot of targets – and militaries around the world are taking notice.
SCOTUS Tariff Ruling: What It Means For You And Your Small Business
SCOTUS ruled that the President does not have broad authority to set tariffs under the IEEPA and that this power rests with Congress, but there are still many questions.
War with Iran means higher gas prices. How is that affecting your small business?
Rising oil prices tied to the conflict in the Middle East could add another strain for US small businesses already struggling under the weight of stubborn inflation and President Donald Trump’s hefty tariffs.
Small Businesses Hold Steady, but See a Rocky Road Ahead
Small businesses maintained steady performance in 2025, but a Cleveland Fed survey shows optimism for 2026 has faded as rising tariff costs squeeze margins.
New York Fed's Williams says tariff burden falls 'overwhelmingly' on U.S. businesses and consumers
Williams said that not only were the tariffs being felt at home, but they also were keeping the Fed from reaching its 2% inflation goal.
Tariffs Confound Small Businesses Again
Chocolate makers and fig-paste importers are facing a tangle of unknowns, including whether to seek refunds for tariffs invalidated by the Supreme Court.
Bett STEAM Expo brings hands-on science, creativity to families Saturday
The Bett STEAM Expo returns March 7 with free hands-on science, technology, engineering, art and math activities for families, plus special guest Alex Turner and planetarium shows at Bettendorf High School.
US manufacturing grows steadily in February, input prices surge
U.S. manufacturing activity expanded steadily in February, but a measure of prices paid by factories for inputs rose to the highest level in nearly 3-1/2 years, highlighting upside risks to inflation amid import tariffs even before a U.S.-led attack on Iran sent oil prices higher.
5 Vegetarian Foods Rich in Omega-3 for Heart Health
Plant-based foods like hemp seeds, flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds can help you meet your omega-3 needs, whether you're following a vegetarian or vegan diet.
New Hampshire businesses react to Supreme Court ruling on tariffs
Michael Skelton of the Business & Industry Association of New Hampshire discusses the business community's reaction to the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on tariffs.
School politics class: Supreme Court torpedoes Donald Trump’s tariff regime in check on executive power
US Supreme Court
Highly anticipated planetarium to finally open at Science Central
The opening of Science Central’s facility marks the return of the region’s only public planetarium.
Oregon exports fell by $6 billion last year — the trade war is just one reason why
“From the beginning there was a concern that Oregon was going to be more susceptible to tariffs."
Waiting on a tariff refund after Trump’s duties were struck down? Don’t bother
Though the supreme court ruled against the levies, businesses hit hard by the tariffs shouldn’t hold their breath for any rebates
What's next for the sprawling ravine site of the shuttered Ontario Science Centre?
These are some of the ideas percolating for the possible uses of the property.
What's next for the sprawling ravine site of the shuttered Ontario Science Centre?
These are some of the ideas percolating for the possible uses of the property.
Trump tariff refund fight in motion as small businesses take helm
The fight for tariff refunds following the Supreme Court’s decision to void President Trump’s sweeping levies is underway. A Michigan auto parts store and New York wine importer are leading the ch…
Sierra Canyon wins 2026 Open Division girls' basketball title
Behind a standout performance from Jerzy Robinson, the Sierra Canyon girls' basketball team defeats defending champion Ontario Christian for the Southern Section Open Division crown.
US shares video of its Iran strikes, including destroying targets
The US and Israeli militaries launched strikes against Iran with hundreds of aircraft and numerous munitions.
How U.S. Businesses Are Shaving Billions Off Their Tariff Bills
A well-honed tariff-reduction playbook is giving businesses some confidence that they can deal with President Trump’s latest tariffs.
Labour anxiety and accusations after big shift in Muslim vote to Greens
PM criticises ‘sectarian politics’ in byelection but party may fear Greens’ nascent leftwing political machine
Supreme Court tariff ruling: a welter of new uncertainties
The decision is a vindication for the rule of law, but Donald Trump will not take the verdict lying down
Ontario Science Centre’s new home is smaller, worse and probably pricier
None of the Ford government’s main claims about this new facility at Ontario Place appear to be true
This small business owner is already giving her customers a tariff refund
Saputo USA recalls Great Value cottage cheese due to possible health risk
Three types of Walmart Great Value brand cottage cheese products were voluntarily recalled by Saputo Cheese USA Inc. due to a possible health risk, the Food and Drug Administration announced Wednesday.
Politics expert Nelsen reacts to State of the Union address
Furman politics expert Brent Nelsen says SOTU addresses tend to be more about show than substance especially during a midterm election year. He speaks with FOX Carolina News about a range of topics including U.S. tensions with Iran and tariff policy.
Moore demands Trump tariff reimbursements for Maryland consumers, businesses
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) is demanding reimbursements for his state’s consumers and businesses after the Supreme Court shot down a majority of the Trump administration’s tariffs last week. …
What economists got wrong about Trump’s tariffs
The 3 big lessons we’ve learned since “Liberation Day.”
Everyone has something to say at the Supreme Court. Why the tariffs ruling had more than 160 pages
The extraordinary number of dueling opinions in the Supreme Court’s tariff case, laying bare divisions among the justices, also became the basis for a punch line.
Small Business and the Trump Tariffs
Last Friday, the Supreme Court ruled that President Donald Trump illegally imposed tariffs on U.S. imports from trading partners. The main partner is
Rising optimism among region’s business leaders suggests growth for Delaware
Business optimism is returning for small and midsize business leaders at the start of 2026, fueling confidence and growth plans. The 2026 Business Leaders Outlook survey, released in January by JPMorganChase, reveals a turnaround from last June, when economic headwinds and uncertainty about shifting policies and tariffs caused some leaders to put their business plans […]
Trump pushes Congress to pass SAVE Act during State of the Union; no meddling with tariffs
Republican divisions emerge over Trump's tariff policies as the president pushes Congress to pass the SAVE Act and restrict congressional stock trading.
Sources: Trump, college leaders to tackle issues at roundtable
Conference commissioners are expected to join sports celebrities and dignitaries on March 6 in a roundtable discussion with President Donald Trump about the future of college athletics, sources said.
Tariffs aren’t slowing down a soaring Long Beach Port, but consumers and businesses feel the pinch
The uncertainty hasn't stopped record-breaking cargo volumes. But with the costs being passed on, smaller businesses say they’re freezing hiring and running out of stockpiled inventory.
Small businesses gear up for tariff fight after Supreme Court rules against Trump
Tariffs. Loans. ICE. Immigrant business owners face plenty of hurdles under Trump administration
Businesses operated and owned by immigrants all over the Boston area face a slew of challenges that were shared at a recent roundtable with Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley.
International Trade After Trump: 4 Business Issues Explained By Economist
Tariffs, transactional deals, and trade wars will impact international business after Trump is gone. Four essential issues key to resilient international trade strategy.
Top manufacturing leader meets with Wisconsin companies at Rockwell
NAM leaders met at Rockwell Automation to discuss tariffs, inflation, and policy, highlighting optimism and federal policy uncertainty.
Letters to the Editor - Primary voting, political mailers, UNT layoffs, peace, tariffs
Readers don’t like separate primary voting, call political brochures nonsense, aren’t happy about the layoffs at UNT, ask if the president truly wants peace...
Trump's tariffs: Asia braces for another year of Trump tariff turmoil
The US Supreme Court's decision to block a pillar of US trade policy has caused yet more uncertainty.
Businesses Push for Tariff Refunds as Trump Aides Hint at Fight to Come
By the president’s own admission, it could be years before the matter is settled, even though the administration previously indicated it would pay.
Javier Palomarez, USHBC President, Warns State of the Union Is Disconnected from Small Business Reality
WASHINGTON, Feb. 25, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Last night’s State of the Union address focused heavily on economic momentum, stock market performance, energy policy, immigration enforcement, and tariffs. While President Trump emphasized record market highs and economic resilience, recent polling among Hispanic business owners suggests a widening gap between macroeconomic indicators and kitchen-table reality. According to the United States Hispanic Business Council (USHBC)’s most recent survey of
China's $112 billion cargo gap shows record U.S. tariff evasion
Business owners, shipping merchants, trade attorneys and former customs officials are sounding the alarm over a surge in apparent tariff fraud.
Economists, business leaders react to Trump's State of the Union speech
Business leaders and top economists weighed in on Trump's inflation claims, tariff push, and his plan for a federally backed retirement savings plan.
Resident Evil Requiem Shines Within Its Confines
The corridors of a former sanitarium are both terrifying and rewarding, while Raccoon City is bland and filled with chores.
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
US tariff rate to hit 15% or more for some nations, USTR says
The U.S. tariff rate for some countries will go up to 15% or higher from the newly-imposed 10%, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said on Wednesday, without naming any specific trading partners or other details.
WHO Director-General visits Jordan to recognize strong collaboration on health system delivery, emergency relief and advancing mental health
The Director-General of the World Health Organization, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, today concluded the first day of his two-day State visit to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, underscoring the strong partnership between WHO and Jordan across the areas of universal health coverage (UHC), mental health and humanitarian health action.
6 takeaways from Trump's State of the Union speech
Key takeaways included his comments on tariffs, lower consumer prices, and AI driving up energy costs.
Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal plans to make 1 start for USA in World Baseball Classic; Paul Skenes available for multiple starts, knockout round
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
Small businesses that challenged Trump’s tariffs begin refund push
Fresh off their Supreme Court victory, a group of small businesses that challenged President Trump’s global tariffs formally commenced their refund push on Tuesday. I…
Mpls Fed survey: Upper Midwest businesses report falling profits, tariff uncertainty
A survey of businesses by the Minneapolis Fed shows profits are down across the Upper Midwest and many blame government policies such as tariffs.
READY, SET, IMPLEMENT! Lifelines in Crisis: Prioritizing Women’s, Children’s, and Adolescents’ Health in Humanitarian and Conflict-affected Settings
Conflict, climate change and displacement are driving a global “permacrisis,” with over half of maternal and child deaths occurring in fragile settings. This PMNCH webinar explores rights-based, resilient approaches to protect WCAH and SRHR, strengthen local systems, and accelerate integrated health action in crisis contexts.
How one AI company is helping businesses navigate Trump’s new tariff chaos following the Supreme Court ruling
Plus Anthropic accuses Chinese AI rivals of using Claude's answers to train their own models
Populism is plain to see all around us
Letters: The characteristics include attachments to authoritarian regimes including the one based in the Kremlin, writes Kevin Lloyd; plus a letter from Peter Gray
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.
FedEx joins other U.S. companies, seeks a full refund after Trump tariffs are ruled illegal
FedEx said in a filing with the U.S. Court of International Trade that they have "suffered injury" from having to pay the tariffs
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.
Trump’s Tariffs Go Into Effect at 10 Percent, Not 15
The change surprised executives and foreign leaders, who had been expecting the 15 percent rate the president announced on Saturday.
Don't bet on lower prices, businesses say, even after emergency Trump tariffs were shot down
Consumers expecting a drop in prices after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the White House's emergency tariffs are likely to be disappointed, as businesses plan to use any relief to offset elevated costs and gird themselves to chase refunds.
4 things to watch in Trump’s State of the Union
Republicans want Donald Trump to hard launch a midterm message on affordability and the economy, and the president will likely address tariffs again. Here’s what to watch.
Live updates: Trump to give State of the Union speech after Supreme Court tariffs ruling
Get the latest news and live updates on Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address as he speaks before Congress on the current U.S. state of affairs.
These small business owners are owed tariff refunds. Will they ever get them?
Anyone who paid the taxes should get reimbursed, but the high court did not address how. Business owners wonder if they'll need lawyers, brokers, money — or luck.
5 things to watch for in Trump's State of the Union address
The president is expected to defend his economic record and tariffs, but how will he handle immigration enforcement? And what will Democrats do?
Trump’s new global tariffs kick in at 10%
Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial news
Supreme Court ruling on tariffs leaves uncertainty for Cincinnati businesses, economists say
A local coffee roaster and University of Cincinnati economist explain how shifting trade policies could impact prices and planning across Ohio.
FedEx sues Trump administration for full tariff refunds after Supreme Court ruling on IEEPA
FedEx sues U.S. government for tariff refunds after Supreme Court ruled Trump's emergency trade duties on imports were unlawful.
Monday Morning Politics: Tariffs; Polls and More | The Brian Lehrer Show
Jonathan Lemire talks about the latest national political news, including the tariffs ruling and this week's SOTU address.
Warren to Trump: ‘you got to give the [tariff] money back’
Five Big Political Questions About Trump’s State of the Union Speech
Tariffs, the cost of living, immigration: The president has a careful line to walk on major issues.
Columbus businesses navigate tariff changes after U.S. Supreme Court ruling
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
Vt. business blames Trump tariffs for first layoffs in nearly 50 years
A Westford business says the president's tariffs drove sales down and forced layoffs.
Trump officials say courts must weigh in on tariff refunds
Trump on Monday railed against the ruling and high court, suggesting it could rule against him in ano ther high-profile case
From Nick Shirley to Colin Hortman: What Minnesota SOTU guests say about the politics of the moment
The state’s 10-member congressional delegation will highlight with their guests where they stand on immigration, fraud, tariffs and political violence.
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.
Business Organizations React To SCOTUS Ruling On Tariffs
Business organizations across the political spectrum from conservative to progressive are in general agreement with the Supreme Court ruling on Friday on tariffs.
Rochester-area man says Trump's tariffs have been devastating for his business
Ben Pearson will be attending the president's address as a guest of Sen. Chuck Schumer.
Democrats say they'll ensure Trump's new 15% tariffs are temporary
President Donald Trump is trying to use a different law to impose new 15% global tariffs. But Democrats say they'll ensure the taxes are temporary.
Live updates: Trump leaves tariff refunds to the courts as he mulls military action in Iran
Trump’s Ominous Netflix Threat Could Impact Warner Deal
Plus, why the tariffs haven’t cut the U.S. trade deficit, and what we can expect when the government releases its UFO files
Attacks on Ukraine’s health care increased by 20% in 2025
Since the beginning of the full-scale war on 24 February 2022, WHO has documented at least 2881 attacks on health care in Ukraine, affecting health workers, facilities, ambulances, and medical warehouses.
What happened in Iowa politics the week of Feb. 16-20
Listen as Morning Edition Host Meghan McKinney and IPR's State Government Reporter Katarina Sostaric review the latest in Iowa politics.
How to stop a dictator
I spent months studying how authoritarians like Trump lose. The answer is shockingly simple.
US dollar drops and stock markets face losses after Trump announces 15% global tariff
Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial news
Analysis: Trump won’t blink on tariffs — because he can’t
It was always unthinkable that President Donald Trump would choose a new “most beautiful word” in the dictionary after the Supreme Court knocked back his emergency tariff powers.
Gold rises as dollar falls on US Supreme Court tariff verdict
Gold rose to a more than three-week high on Monday, as the dollar fell after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a vast swathe of President Donald Trump's tariffs on Friday and as U.S.-Iran tensions simmered.
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
Trump Administration Ending Humanitarian Aid to Seven African Countries
The State Department will let lifesaving projects expire because “there is no strong nexus between the humanitarian response and U.S. national interests,” according to an internal email.
‘We were right’: He took Trump’s tariffs to the Supreme Court and won
Wine importer Victor Schwartz challenged Trump's tariffs at the Supreme Court and won, dealing a blow to the trade agenda after survival threats.
Trump tariffs: The uncertainties facing businesses and consumers after tariff changes
Businesses say questions remain after US President Donald Trump announced he will impose global tariffs of 15%.