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Folcarelli to retire after 65 years in the family business
A longtime Altoona businessman is planning to move on after 65 years in his family business. James D. “Jim” Folcarelli, 84, plans to retire near the first of April upon the sale of Folcarelli Sheet Metal Fabrication Inc. The family business was founded by his parents Jim and Bess Folcarelli in the basement of their […]
Fertitta in weekend deal talks to acquire Caesars, while billionaire Carl Icahn waits in the wings
The deal, if it gets done, would not be finalized until early April and is not expected to close until 2027.
Weekly round-up: art installation, April ballot, entertainment district consultant
Good morning, Norman! I’m Audrey McClour, a news editor for OU Daily.
Small Business Technology News: Musk: X Money Launching In April
Will your customers pay with X? Also, new scams announced by the FBI and Microsoft wants you to hire its agents instead to do tasks.
ECU Health names Cathy Yablonski as president of Outer Banks Health
ECU Health today announced the appointment of Cathy Yablonski as the new president of Outer Banks Health. Yablonski will join on April 20.
April 1 Is Next Possible Launch Date For Moon-Bound Mission Following Repairs
The space agency has updated the list of the next possible launch dates.
Xbox Ally X handhelds will soon get a performance boost
Microsoft has announced that ROG Xbox Ally X handhelds will get a performance boost in April, thanks to Automatic Super Resolution.
A free Xbox Ally X update could deliver up to 30% smoother performance for your handheld games — "Automatic Super Resolution" preview starts soon
Xbox is bringing Automatic Super Resolution to the Xbox Ally X in April. The AI upscaling feature aims to improve performance while keeping games sharp.
Pittsburgh businesses ready for 2026 NFL Draft
Jim Coen expects his football-themed merchandise to fly off the shelves when the 2026 NFL Draft comes to town April 23. “I’m projecting this NFL Draft to be like two Super Bowls combined,” said Coen, who owns Yinzers in the Burgh, a Strip District store dedicated to all things Pittsburgh
ROG Xbox Ally X to get Automatic Super Resolution preview in April
Xbox says Automatic Super Resolution preview for ROG Xbox Ally X starts in April Xbox said at GDC 2026 that its Automatic Super Resolution, or Auto SR,
Bridging Gaps in Women’s Health: From pregnancy to long-term prevention
Rethinking postpartum care, addressing social needs and partnering with communities can help prevent disease and improve women’s health long before complications arise.
Teen Mental Health Survey Is Open
Youth between 12 and 19 years old are encouraged to complete the anonymous survey through April 30.
Steelers 2026 NFL Draft picks following Michael Pittman Jr. trade
Here’s where the Steelers will pick in April.
Drop Zone entertainment complex with golf bays, pickleball courts to open April 1
Kearney residents who have long driven to Lincoln or Omaha for certain entertainment options will soon have a new local alternative.Drop Zone, a new entertainme
Business Property Statement Deadline Quickly Approaching
Nevada County Assessor Rolf Kleinhans is reminding business owners that time is running out to file their Business Property Statement with the Assessor’s Office. The annual filing period runs from January 1 through April 1. To streamline the process, businesses can file their Business Property Statements (BOE 571-L) electronically. The statement is due on April […]
Apple Announces 50th Anniversary Plans
Apple today announced that it plans to celebrate its 50th anniversary, which is on April 1. In addition, Apple CEO Tim Cook shared a "50 Years of Thinking Different" letter.
Help needed for State Science Fair at SIU April 24-25
SIU is hosting the 2026 Illinois Junior Academy of Science (IJAS) State Science Fair April 24-25.
A “ghost” great white shark just reignited a Mediterranean mystery
A rare encounter with a juvenile great white shark caught by fishermen in April 2023 has reignited scientific interest in the mysterious population of these apex predators in the Mediterranean Sea. By reviewing records spanning more than 160 years, researchers found that great whites still appear sporadically in Spanish Mediterranean waters, suggesting the population—though elusive and declining—has not vanished. The discovery of a young shark raises an intriguing possibility: these legendary predators may still be reproducing in the region.
Windows 11's Steam Deck-ish, streamlined Xbox gaming UI comes to all PCs in April
Running Windows on gaming handhelds is currently a blessing and a curse.
Project Helix alpha development kits to ship in 2027; Xbox mode coming to Windows 11 in April
Microsoft Gaming shared updates on its newly announced next-generation hardware Project Helix during the Xbox Developer Summit keynote address at Game Developer Conference 2026, including that it p…
Microsoft's full screen 'Xbox Mode' will roll out to Windows 11 PCs in April
Today at GDC, Microsoft revealed that its big screen Xbox UI is headed to all Windows 11 devices.
Politics of power: NV Energy’s demand charge could sway race for governor, says expert
Community and energy industry advocates are calling on Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo to halt NV Energy’s controversial peak demand charge that is expected to increase some bills by $20 a month and is set to take effect in Southern Nevada on April 1. Lombardo’s reaction, as well as his opponents’, to calls to intervene could […]
Nintendo Shares Rally 10% as New Pokémon Game Lifts Sentiment
Nintendo Co. shares soared as much as 10% in their steepest climb since April as the surprise success of its new Pokémon game helped offset worries around the rising cost of memory chips.
Clayton Fuller and Shawn Harris Advance to Runoff in Marjorie Taylor Greene’s Georgia District
Clayton Fuller will face Shawn Harris, a Democrat, in an April runoff. Mr. Fuller’s win over a flashier Republican showed the power of the president’s support.
Enjoy New Prizes and Newly Distributed Battle Boxes at Play! Pokémon Stores
Acrylic standees, stickers, and Battle Boxes are coming to local Play! Pokémon Stores starting April 1, 2026.
Trinity Health hospital north of Ann Arbor to relocate in April
The public can tour the new 174,000-square-foot facility, test a surgical robot and explore emergency vehicles before the new hospital opens.
Invincible VS adds Allen the Alien; PS5 and Xbox Series open beta test set for April 9 to 11
Allen the Alien will be one of 18 playable characters available at launch in three-versus-three tag fighting game Invincible VS, publisher Skybound Games and developer Quarter Up announced. An open…
Market to elevate Black-owned vendors at NFL Draft
The Cocoapreneur Market is set for April 23-25 at the Pitt Building in Downtown.
'Apple: The First 50 Years' Book Available Tomorrow
Tech columnist David Pogue's new book Apple: The First 50 Years will be available in hardcover and digital formats starting this Tuesday, March 10. In time for Apple's 50th anniversary on April 1, the 608-page book explores the first five decades of the company's history. Pogue interviewed 150 key people who shaped Apple into what it is today, including the company's co-founder Steve Wozniak, former CEO John Sculley, former design chief Jony Ive, and others.
SIC - SEARCH IGAMING CONFERENCE, April 16 Cyprus
Limassol, Cyprus, April 16th, 2026, FinanceWireSIC - SEARCH IGAMING CONFERENCESearch iGaming Conference (SIC) to Take Place i...
Reubin O’D. Askew Lecture Series returns with discussion on East Asia, the United States, and the Future of Democracy - University of West Florida Newsroom
The University of West Florida Askew Lecture Series returns to the Museum of Commerce in downtown Pensacola on Thursday, April 9, with a timely discussion on “East Asia, the United States, and the Future of Democracy.” This year’s event features Dr. Erik Mobrand, professor at the Graduate School of International Studies at Seoul National University […]
Tickets Available for 2026 Alaska Nanooks All-Sports Banquet on April 2
FAIRBANKS - The Alaska Nanooks Department of Athletics has announced that a limited number of public tickets are now available for the 2026 All Sports Banquet, set for Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the 8 Star Event Center.
No healthcare premiums? In this economy?! Here's how.
It turns out healthcare in America CAN be cheaper. If your employer wants it to be. Today on the show, we speak with a Canadian-founded startup that has unusually generous benefits for their employees. Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! 12 cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour. Related episodes: Health insurance premiums are going up next year — unless you work at these companiesHealth care costs are soaring. Blame insurers, drug companies — and your employerThe hidden costs of healthcare churnFor sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.
Tim Cook Says Two Things Matter Most at Apple Ahead of Company's 50th Anniversary
CBS Sunday Morning correspondent David Pogue interviewed Apple's CEO Tim Cook ahead of the company's 50th anniversary on April 1, 2026. In the interview, Cook revealed the two things that are "essential" to Apple: people and culture. "Yes, we have a lot of intellectual property and so forth, and that is important, but it's people that create that intellectual property," said Cook.
FDA’s controversial vaccine chief will exit agency next month
The US Food and Drug Administration’s head of vaccines and biologic medicines will leave the agency at the end of April, a spokesperson confirmed to CNN on Friday.
FDA vaccine chief to leave the agency for a second time
Dr. Vinay Prasad will step down in April after a controversial year at the FDA.
Exclusive | FDA’s Controversial Vaccines Chief Will Leave the Agency
Dr. Vinay Prasad will depart in April, after a year leading the division that approves vaccines and biotech drugs.
Legendary magician ends Vegas residency after over two decades
The legendary illusionist announced his final show at MGM will be on April 30, 2026.
‘Rhythm & Booms’ will turn the Franklin Institute into a late-night science and cocktail party
The adults-only Science After Hours event on April 10 will mix live music, interactive experiments and rooftop stargazing.
Wisconsin Film Festival unveils 2026 lineup with more than 135 films
MADISON — The Wisconsin Film Festival has announced its 2026 lineup, featuring more than 135 films that will screen from April 9 through 16 across Madison venues.
Live cattle futures up ahead of widespread direct business
At the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, live cattle were up waiting on direct business, feeders were down on profit taking. April live cattle closed $.17 higher at $238.52 and June live cattle closed $.10 higher at $235.27. April feeder cattle closed $1.75 lower at $359 and May feeder cattle closed $1.47 lower at $355.52. Direct cash […]
Call for Proposals: Teaching Sports and Politics | Deadline: April 5, 2026 -
The American Political Science Association’s (APSA) Teaching and Learning program is pleased to announce a call for proposals for a small cohort of political scientists to participate in a virtual teaching and learning symposium that will meet on Zoom between June 11-18, 2026.
Call for Proposals: Teaching Sports and Politics | Deadline: April 5, 2026 -
The American Political Science Association’s (APSA) Teaching and Learning program is pleased to announce a call for proposals for a small cohort of political scientists to participate in a virtual teaching and learning symposium that will meet on Zoom between June 11-18, 2026.
What’s the Best Month for Sports?
Our definitive ranking of the best months to be a sports fan, from the highs of April (NBA playoffs! The Masters!) to the lows of August (baseball’s snooziest stretch).
ESPN, Disney, Pixar and National Hockey League Team Up for Inside Out Classic
ESPN+, Disney+, Disney Channel, and Disney XD to present real-time animated presentation of Washington Capitals vs. New York Rangers on Sunday, April 5 at 7 p.m. ET
KU Business announces 2026 Sutton Lecture with VML innovation leader Brian Yamada
The University of Kansas School of Business will host Brian Yamada, global chief innovation officer at VML, for the Walter S. Sutton Lecture at 5 p.m. April 8. His talk, “From Madison Avenue to Machine Learning: Business Ethics at the Speed of AI,” will explore the ethical questions emerging as artificial intelligence transforms marketing, technology and business.
Super Mario Run x Super Mario Bros. Wonder Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Meetup in Bellabel Park event now live
Super Mario Run is back with another special event, this time it’s a tie in with Super Mario Bros. Wonder Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Meetup in Bellabel Park. The event is currently being held to players of the mobile game, and will be ongoing until April 3, 2026. Just like past events you will be able to unlock exclusive...
Multiple Fights Confirmed for UFC Winnipeg on April 18
The UFC Winnipeg lineup is gradually taking shape.
Cattle futures sharply higher, optimistic about cash business
At the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, live and feeder cattle were sharply higher on cash optimism and stronger boxed beef during the session. April live cattle closed $4.222 higher at $238.35 and June live cattle closed $4.50 higher at $235.17. April feeder cattle closed $7.45 higher at $360.75 and May feeder cattle closed $7.65 higher at […]
'THE STORY OF EVERYTHING' PRESENTS GROUNDBREAKING EVIDENCE THAT HAS REIGNITED THE DEBATE OVER SCIENCE, ORIGINS, AND THE EXISTENCE OF GOD IN THEATRES NATIONWIDE FROM FATHOM ENTERTAINMENT APRIL 30-MAY 6
A new feature documentary is about to challenge everything you thought science had settled about the origin of the universe—and the existence of God. The Story of Everything arrives in theatres nationwide April 30–May 6 from Fathom Entertainment, the leading specialty distributor of content to theatrical partners worldwide. The Story of Everything will bring to the big screen stunning new evidence from cosmology, physics, and molecular biology that its creators say demands a radical rethinking o
Call for Proposals: Teaching Political Science in an Age of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) | Deadline: April 5, 2026 -
The American Political Science Association’s (APSA) Teaching and Learning program and the Political Studies Association (PSA) Teaching & Learning Network are pleased to announce a call for proposals for a small cohort of political science/politics instructors to participate in a virtual teaching and learning symposium that will meet on Zoom between June 22-26, 2026.
Call for Proposals: Teaching Political Science in an Age of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) | Deadline: April 5, 2026 -
The American Political Science Association’s (APSA) Teaching and Learning program and the Political Studies Association (PSA) Teaching & Learning Network are pleased to announce a call for proposals for a small cohort of political science/politics instructors to participate in a virtual teaching and learning symposium that will meet on Zoom between June 22-26, 2026.
New SNAP Purchase Restrictions Take Effect April 1 | Texas Health and Human Services
HHSC reminds SNAP recipients that they can no longer buy candy or sweetened drinks with their Lone Star Cards in Texas starting April 1, 2026.
Business leaders Irby, Lawhorn, McKinley to speak at 2026 CEO Day
Business executives Steve Irby, Jimmy Lawhorn and Liz McKinley will speak to students on the Spears School of Business’ 2026 CEO Day at 3 p.m. April 7 in the Student Union Theater. OSU students of all colleges are encouraged to attend free of charge.
Sabalenka, Anisimova nominated for Laureus World Sports Awards
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has been nominated for Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year, and Amanda Anisimova is up for the Laureus World Comeback of the Year. The 2026 Laureus World Sports Awards will be held in Madrid on April 20.
Laureus World Sports Awards 2026: Duplantis, Alcaraz, McLaughlin-Levrone, Ledecky lead nominations
Find out the full list of nominees for the 2026 Laureus World Sports Awards. Winners will be crowned in Madrid on 20 April.
Lando Norris, Luke Littler and Lionesses up for Laureus World Sports Awards
Lando Norris, Luke Littler and the England women's football team are among the nominees for this year's Laureus World Sports Awards with the winners to be announced in April.
Everton v Burnley: Key stats and talking points
Everton will be looking to arrest a sharp decline in their home form when Burnley make the relatively short trip to Hill Dickinson Stadium on Tuesday (19:30 GMT). The Toffees, who sit eighth, won five of the first nine league games at their new ground on the banks of the River Mersey, but they are winless in their past seven, their worst run at home since going nine without a victory at Goodison Park between April and October 1998. Back-to-back losses at home to Bournemouth and Manchester United were followed up by an impressive 3-2 win over Newcastle United in a lively game at St James' Park on Saturday.
Trump says he'll attend White House correspondents' dinner for his first time as president
President Donald Trump says he'll attend this year's White House Correspondent Association dinner on April 25, marking the first time he's done so as commander-in-chief.
Applications open for Rockonsin 2026
MILWAUKEE — Wisconsin's only statewide youth music competition is returning for its 22nd year on June 19 and 20 in Milwaukee, and applications are open until April 30.
Winners and losers from MotoGP’s season-opening Thailand Grand Prix
The 2026 MotoGP season kicked off in Thailand with KTM and Aprilia sharing the spoils and Ducati suffering an unusually difficult weekend
Talking Trash: Avoid Penalties on Cross-Border Business Aircraft Flights
There are strict rules for properly dealing with refuse when flying back into the U.S. Experts say breaking the law risks stiff fines and even prison sentences.
Talking Trash: Avoid Penalties on Cross-Border Business Aircraft Flights
There are strict rules for properly dealing with refuse when flying back into the U.S. Experts say breaking the law risks stiff fines and even prison sentences.
Nate Bargatze on comedy retirement, 'Big Dumb Eyes' tour and his surprising napkin phobia
The 46-year-old comedian and host opened up about his growing entertainment empire and plans for his future in stand-up comedy.
CRAWFORD | Louisville’s 80-75 loss at Clemson feels familiar
Three weeks into the season, Louisville looked like a team that might have something to say in April.
ENTERTAINMENT: ‘Mask’ ends SoNA season; hotel hosts paranormal deep-dive
The Basin Park Hotel hosts “Parting the Veil,” which a news release describes as “an exclusive paranormal deep-dive weekend (with) guided investigations, hands-on equipment sessions and late-night explorations (that) will take you deeper into the hotel’s storied past,” Friday and Saturday.
Taiwan Arms Sale Approved by Congress Is Delayed as Trump Plans Visit to Beijing
The package worth billions of dollars and endorsed by lawmakers is stalled at the State Department as the U.S. and China plan an April summit.
2026 San Francisco Worlds Key Art Revealed; PokemonXP and Worlds...
The key art for this year's World Championships was just revealed during today's Pokemon Presents! TPCi also announced that starting April 2nd at 6 PM
Denver Broncos to start offseason program later than usual
A minor bit of offseason schedule news this week with head coach Sean Payton telling Pat McAfee on his show that Phase 1 of the Denver Broncos offseason program won’t start until around May 1st. Typically, that first start date happens in mid-April so it’ll be a few weeks later than what we’ve seen in […]
Spring sports events in Clarksville to generate up to $12 million in visitor spending
Through April, Visit Clarksville is hosting a series of sporting events expected to bring more than 23,000 athletes, coaches, and spectators to the area.
Variety Announces 2026 Entertainment Marketing Summit Program Featuring Tina Knowles and Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group Co-Chair Pam Abdy
Variety has announced the first speakers for the 2026 Entertainment Marketing Summit, presented by Deloitte, on April 22 in Los Angeles, including Tina Knowles and Warner Bros Motion Picture Group co-...
Variety Announces 2026 Entertainment Marketing Summit Programming
The summit on April 22, presented by Deloitte, will feature keynotes with Tina Knowles and Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group Co-Chair Pam Abdy
Variety Announces 2026 Entertainment Marketing Summit Program Featuring Tina Knowles and Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group Co-Chair Pam Abdy
Variety has announced the first speakers for the 2026 Entertainment Marketing Summit, presented by Deloitte, on April 22 in Los Angeles, including Tina Knowles and Warner Bros Motion Picture Group co-...
CEO of local business incubator Ascender to step down in April
After seven years at the helm of nonprofit business incubator Ascender, CEO Nadyli Nuñez is stepping down.
Register Now – Developing Leadership Through Sport Symposium (April 14)
AURORA - The Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA), in partnership with the CU-Boulder Center for Leadership, is excited to invite member schools to participate in the "Developing Leadership Through Sport" Symposium. This symposium is an opportunity to align athletic leadership mission with practical strategies, research-based insights and statewide collaboration. Student-athletes will leave with tangible tools they can implement immediately within their teams and school communities.
Flash sale drops ticket prices for NYC’s upcoming ‘Ballet of Lights’ show
The “Ballet of Lights: Cinderella in a Sparkling Show” comes to NYC on March 8 and April 4.
College of Arts and Architecture’s Art Business Idea Competition accepting entries
The College of Arts and Architecture's Arts Business Idea Competition — the college’s annual showcase of arts entrepreneurship — is accepting entries through April 1.
CVS Health put volume heavy and directionally bearish
Bearish flow noted in CVS Health (CVS) with 3,674 puts trading, or 1.5x expected. Most active are 2/27 weekly 74 puts and 2/27 weekly 73 calls, with total volume in those strikes near 2,800 contracts. The Put/Call Ratio is 1.51, while ATM IV is up nearly 2 points on the day. Earnings are expected on April 29th.Claim 50% Off TipRanks PremiumUnlock hedge fund-level data and powerful investing tools for smarter, sharper decisions Stay ahead of the market with the latest news and analysis and maximi
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.
New coworking space planned for Michigan Central Station in Detroit
The Michigan Central Mezz is expected to open in April at the Michigan Central campus that includes the popular Newlab at Michigan Central.
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
NFL Films to premiere ‘The Football Town,’ a doc on the sport’s legacy in Western Pa.
Ahead of the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh this April, a new NFL Films documentary will tell the story of how Pittsburgh’s gritty, blue-collar culture...
APPLY: Local Business Journalism Fellowship
Apply to NPF’s Local Business Journalism Fellowship, scheduled for April 26-29, 2026 in Washington, D.C., by March 23.
Dru Joyce Classic | April 10, 2026 | Greater Cleveland Sports Commission
Dru Joyce Classic returns to Cleveland! Cleveland is set to host one of the nation’s premier youth basketball events. From April 10-12, 2026, the Dru Joyce Classic will take over the I-X Center, bringing elite competition and a significant economic boost to Northeast Ohio. This three-day tournament is a cornerstone of the...
NFL mock draft roundup: Experts predict first round before NFL combine
The NFL combine starts on Feb. 26. The NFL draft begins on April 23. Here's how draft experts are predicting the first round before the combine.
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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