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House speaker tells GOP Rep. Gonzales to promptly address affair allegations
House Speaker Mike Johnson on Monday said he’s spoken with Rep. Tony Gonzales about the “very serious” allegations against him and told the Texas Republican to address the claims.
Blizzard Plans: Updates on Diablo, Wow, Overwatch, Johanna Faries
Blizzard Entertainment president Johanna Faries reveals 35th anniversary plans across "Diablo," "World of Warcraft," "Overwatch" and more.
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.
Johnson Will Bring Daughter of Jimmy Lai to State of the Union Address
Her appearance underscores that “America is determined” to secure the release of the Hong Kong democracy activist, Speaker Mike Johnson said.
2026 Business Leaders of the Year
Central Massachusetts is full of amazing professionals, each with their own unique skills, talents, and dedication to their companies, industries, and communities. You could make a strong case for hundreds of them to be considered as WBJ’s Business Leader of the Year. Yet, to actually win the award, you need to have that little something extra: a magic spark, an insight no one else sees, years of knowledge that pay off with the right decision at the right time, a leadership style inspiring people to follow, a push for a paradigm shift at a stagnant organization. Business Leader of the Year is WBJ’s oldest award, launched in 1982 when Herb Dunnington of First Safety Fund Bank won the sole award. In the decades since, BLOY has expanded to honor winners from different corners of the economy: small businesses, large businesses, nonprofits, innovation, families. Each of the six winners this year has that something special setting them apart as true leaders in our Central Massachusetts business community: Neelu Mohaghegh’s creativity, Nick Haritos’ compassion, Nicolette Sacco’s adaptability, Julie Bowditch’s energy, Sean Rose’s steadiness, the Vaccaro family’s culture. You can read more about each of them through the links below.
Colts reportedly have begun multi-year contract extension talks with QB Daniel Jones
Backing VENU’s Disruptive Vision for Future of Live Entertainment
Niall Horan and Dierks Bentley Joining Venu as Shareholders
Exploring The Natural World With Elizabeth Kolbert
Join SciFri Book Club to discuss Kolbert's "Life on a Little-Known Planet."
Delroy Lindo calls out BAFTA response to N-word controversy at awards show
Delroy Lindo said he was disappointed that nobody from BAFTA spoke to him or Michael B. Jordan after a racial slur was yelled while the 'Sinnners' stars were on stage at Sunday's ceremony.
Prior authorization is a top health care burden, KFF poll finds
About 32% of Americans say prior authorization requirements are a major burden, more than billing confusion or finding appointments, according to the January 2026 survey.
Major changes to the Send system - can the government win over MPs and parents?
Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey discuss the government’s long-awaited plans for the special educational needs and disabilities system
Kristen Mellen
First Bank Chicago, one of the five largest privately held banks in Chicago, is pleased to announce Kristen Mellen has been promoted to Systems and Applications Support Officer. In this role, Kristen leads process improvement initiatives that enhance client experiences with our products and services. She provides ongoing support throughout the Bank for system configuration and application implementations. Kristen joined the Bank in 2017.
No business like snow business: blizzard shuts down the north-east US
As another major storm brings to the area up to 2ft of snow, people brave the weather to commute and shovel
New Community Space for Cosmic Pathfinders Program
Follow the link here to join: https://discord.gg/DsDq5UX8TJ
'View' makes major changes to broadcast as Whoopi Goldberg's chair left empty
'The View' makes major changes to live broadcast as Whoopi Goldberg's chair left empty amid a New York City blizzard.
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.
ALFA Insurance teams with Sorrell College of Business to create a business innovation lab to spur student success and develop the next generation of business leaders
Alfa Insurance and Troy University’s Sorrell College of Business are teaming up to expand educational capabilities through the creation of the Alfa Insurance Business Innovation Lab in John Robert Lewis Hall.
This Gen Zer skipped university and built a six-figure dog walking business
As AI threatens entry-level jobs, some young people are starting their own businesses.
Rams reporter says team is 'overdue' to invest in CB
The Los Angeles Rams need to figure out their cornerback room for 2026.
Supreme Court to decide if Colorado city can sue oil companies for climate change
The Supreme Court agreed Monday to take up a major environmental appeal from fossil fuel producers who are hoping to shake off a lawsuit from a Colorado city that wants to hold them responsible for climate change.
Texas A&M AgriLife modernizes greenhouses to support innovative plant science
Major upgrades to greenhouses at the Borlaug Center for Southern Crop Improvement ushers a new era of plant research at Texas A&M AgriLife.
FBI director joins U.S. men's hockey team in celebration of Olympic gold medal
Videos shared on social media showed a pumped-up Patel drinking beer from a bottle and spraying the rest around the locker room
How to Regulate Your Hormones With Gut Health, Movement, More
Millions of women struggle with the frustrating and often dismissed symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, so Dr. Amy Shah joins TODAY to help women reclaim their health with evidence-based advice from her new book “Hormone Havoc: A Science-Backed Protocol for Perimenopause & Menopause.” Tips include taking control of gut health, strength training and more.
New off-Broadway show stars Elizabethtown native, viral TikTok husband-and-wife dancers
Perhaps you're not in love with your job, or your relationship is feeling a little rocky.
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...
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.
Which full-body MRI scan should I get? Compare major companies like Preunvo.
Full-body MRIs are all the rage. We take a look at three major companies offering such testing.
Politics Unplugged Podcast: Richard Ruelas on the Guthrie media circus
Arizona Republic reporter Richard Ruelas joins the pod to talk about the media circus in Tucson for the Guthrie case.
Expert believes USC has gotten its coaching staff right
Gary Patterson and Lincoln Riley should be the coaching duo that will propel the Trojans into contention - so says CFB analyst Joel Klatt
Rejoice! Private equity is taking over America’s small businesses
Its ghoulish reputation is ill-deserved
RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group Raises the Final Steel Beam for New Multi-Specialty Center in Howell
RWJBarnabas Health raised the final steel beam of its new three-story, 67,000-square-foot Multi-Specialty Center on January 21, alongside joint venture partners New Jersey Imaging Network, Seaview Orthopaedics, and Family First Urgent Care.
Map: 39 flights to Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara diverted amid violence
Two private jets and an 11-hour transatlantic journey from Madrid were among the flights that diverted due to cartel violence in Mexico.
Merck to create separate cancer business to offset Keytruda patent loss, WSJ reports
Drugmaker Merck is separating its human-health business into two divisions to offset pressures related to the patent loss of its top-selling drug Keytruda, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday.
WBJ names the 2026 Business Leaders of the Year
Each of the six winners this year has that something special setting them apart as true leaders in our Central Massachusetts business community.
Edward Rogers and Rogers Communications steer a unified Toronto sports empire
As Rogers Communications moves to fully own MLSE and leverage the Blue Jays, Maple Leafs, Raptors and Sportsnet for content, growth and possible spin-off, Edward Rogers steers a unified Toronto sports empire.
How to stop a dictator
I spent months studying how authoritarians like Trump lose. The answer is shockingly simple.
‘Progressive membership’: Ukraine’s economic resilience shows future for EU business tie-ups
Joint ventures on defence, green energy and telecoms suggest how country could join bloc in stages rather than wait for full status
Former F.B.I. Official, Ousted Under Trump, Will Run for Congress in Maryland
David Sundberg, who led the Washington Field Office, is joining a crowded Democratic primary for Steny H. Hoyer’s open House seat.
Checks and balances aren’t working under Trump, growing majority says
On the eve of President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, two-thirds of Americans say the system of checks and balances that divides power between the White House, Congress and the courts is not working well, according to the latest PBS News/NPR/Marist Poll.
Rachel Grage says Q4 haul shows 'energy' behind bid to upset John Rutherford in CD 5
Longshot candidate points to early fundraising.
Major Galaxy Buds 4 Pro leak reveals almost all the new features
Samsung will unveil the Galaxy Buds 4 series this week, and a new leak has revealed plenty of Galaxy Buds 4 Pro features.
Enel to Increase Spending, Shareholder Returns Under 2028 Plan
Enel plans to spend more than 26 billion euros in its integrated business—with the majority invested in Europe and North America. It also sees more than 26 billion euros spent across its grids unit.
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 […]
Honeywell Enters Into Amended Agreement to Acquire Johnson Matthey's Catalyst Technologies Business
/PRNewswire/ -- Honeywell (NASDAQ: HON) today announced that it has entered into an amended agreement to acquire Johnson Matthey's Catalyst Technologies...
In health care’s defining moment, AMA helps drive positive change
Building on eight major wins in the federal budget deal, doctors gather for the AMA National Advocacy Conference in Washington to reshape medicine.
Nantwich sports photographer calls job 'ridiculous at times'
Photographer Simon Stacpoole has been capturing key moments in sport for 20 years.
Trump's Swollen Ankles Spark Health Concerns Again: Edema Causes, Risks And What It Means
US President Trump's visibly swollen ankles have reignited scrutiny over his health, drawing attention to edema, fluid buildup in tissues. Here's what causes swelling and when it may signal a serious health issue.
Josh Shapiro, in his own words, on political violence and antisemitism
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro is opening up about his Jewish faith at a pivotal moment in his political rise
As antisemitism rises and strife over Israel continues, Josh Shapiro turns toward his Jewish faith
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro may be the nation’s most prominent Jewish politician as antisemitism surges across America
As antisemitism rises and strife over Israel continues, Josh Shapiro turns toward his Jewish faith
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro may be the nation’s most prominent Jewish politician as antisemitism surges across America.
Yankees news: Jones adopts an Ohtani-like swing
Spencer Jones’ new swing draws comparisons to Ohtani; Caballero can seize playing time; John Sterling’s health scare.
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson to lead business delegation to NYC
Shedeur Sanders Receives Major Praise From Fellow Browns' Rookie
Cleveland Browns standout linebacker Carson Schwesinger heaps praise on fellow rookie Sheduer Sanders
Understanding the science of sports tape
That kinesiology tape you see on elite athletes is more than a joint stabilizer. It plays a much bigger role
Did E! Entertainment's 2026 BAFTA Awards Airing Edit N-Word Moment?
It doesn't seem E! edited the moment when Tourette syndrome campaigner John Davidson yelled the N-word at Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo.
Ron DeSantis doubts deal possible with 'tottering' Iran regime, thinks Donald Trump will 'follow through' with attacks
'They don't want to have a peaceful world like we would want to enjoy with our allies.'
British acting awards interrupted by racist slur from man with Tourette Syndrome
It was the clip heard around the world after Sunday night’s BAFTA ceremony in London — a man yelling a racist slur as two of the world’s most celebrated Black actors, Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo, presented an award on stage.
Lakers unveil Pat Riley statue next to Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Why Rider Strong was 'against' Matthew Lawrence joining 'Boy Meets World'
Rider Strong recently opened up to his 'Boy Meets World' costar Matthew Lawrence why he was initially 'against' the teen idol's casting on the show: 'We don't need him.'
Michael Jordan celebrates Tyler Reddick's NASCAR Atlanta win
23XI co-owner Michael Jordan has opened the 2026 NASCAR season with back-to-back wins.
This is why you should stop connecting your Smart TV to WiFi and what you should do instead
If your Smart TV struggles to stream flawlessly, it could be because your WiFi signal isn’t quite up to the job, but there is another way
John Sterling goes on the air to clarify recent health issue
On Sunday, legendary Yankees broadcaster John Sterling went on WFAN radio with Rickie Ricardo to talk about a recent personal health issue.
Pokémon GO: Road to Kalos Prep Guide
Journey through the previous GO Tour events celebrating the Kanto, Johto, Hoenn, Sinnoh, and Unova regions in a lead-up to Pokémon GO Tour: Kalos.
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
Sony and TCL plan joint venture in home entertainment
Japanese electronics manufacturer Sony and TCL Electronics Holdings Limited have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore the establishment of a joint venture in the home entertainment segment.
Agritourism Growth Drives Insurance Demand As On-Farm Entertainment Operations Grow, So Do Farmers' Risks
By Allen Laman As farmers diversify their operations in the face of volatile markets and unpredictable weather conditions, an agribusiness insurance
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.
Former Detroit Lions OC reportedly landing position with Broncos
Former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator John Morton is expected to be hired by the Denver Broncos.
The Vikings’ Interim GM Inherits 3 Major Headaches
Rob Brzezinski is in charge of the Minnesota Vikings for the next few months after the organization claimed it would […]
Study identifies long-term health risks in testicular cancer survivors treated with contemporary chemotherapy
A large, multi-center study published online in the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (JNCCN) provides new insight into the long-term health effects of contemporary chemotherapy regimens ...
Lovejoy's 33 lead Detroit Mercy past Green Bay 74-70
DETROIT (AP) Orlando Lovejoy scored 33 points as Detroit Mercy beat Green Bay 74-70 on Sunday.
Denver high school wrestler encourages more girls to join the sport
Tomorrow's Top 25 college basketball rankings prediction: Duke poised for rise to No. 1
A new No. 1 and a new-look top 10 is in order Monday after major upheaval in college hoops this week
Emissions from trucks and buses cost Australia $6.2bn in health effects each year, study finds
Research describes children exposed to air pollution equivalent to eight cigarettes a day by attending childcare near major roads
The Times' top 25 high school baseball rankings
St. John Bosco and Orange Lutheran remain atop The Times' high school baseball rankings one week into the 2026 season.
This Week in Missouri Politics - February 22, 2026
Scott Faughn is joined by Navy Veteran and business owner Taylor Burks.
Stars arrive for the UK’s BAFTA film awards, in photos
LONDON (AP) — Stars are convening Sunday for the British Academy Film Awards, a major awards season ceremony ahead of next month's Oscars.
Photos: San Jose’s Vietnamese community celebrates Tet
Festivities wrap up today at 10 p.m. at Eastridge
Apple Reportedly Plans to Unveil at Least Five New Products Next Week
In his Power On newsletter today, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman said Apple will have a three-day stretch of product announcements from Monday, March 2 through Wednesday, March 4. In total, he expects Apple to introduce "at least five products". A week ago, Apple invited selected journalists and content creators to an "Apple Experience" in New York, London, and Shanghai on Wednesday, March 4 at 9 a.m. Eastern Time.
Winter Olympics 2026: How Team USA honored Johnny Gaudreau after winning ice hockey gold
The U.S. men's ice hockey team held up Gaudreau's No. 13 jersey and brought his two children onto the ice as they posed to celebrate winning the gold medal in Milan Cortina.
U.S. men's hockey hadn't won Olympic gold since 1980. Then Jack Hughes changed everything.
Hughes scored the winning goal in sudden-death overtime to earn the U.S. men only their third Olympic gold medal, joining teams in 1960 and 1980.
Antarctica’s Gravity Hole Growing Stronger, Scientists Find
Scientists found that rock movements under Antarctica are correlated to major changes in Antarctica's climate over millions of years.
6-in-10 Americans disapprove of Trump's job performance, new poll says
In a new poll released two days before Trump's highly anticipated address to Congress, 60%, said they disapprove of his performance.
Jodi's Journal: Smithfield story sets stage for Sioux Falls' future
In this week's column, Jodi breaks down the biggest business news story in recent Sioux Falls history.
Science journalism on the ropes worldwide as U.S. aid cuts bite
Federal freezes to foreign assistance are affecting grants for investigative reporters everywhere—but especially in poorer countries
In Roob's Observations, just how young is the Eagles' offensive coaching staff?
We take a look at the nearly unprecedented youth of the Eagles’ offensive coaching staff, what Lane Johnson’s return means for this year’s draft.
The First Amendment protects the Second
It’s not an attack on the Second Amendment, but the First Amendment. I know this is going to sound crazy but, there was a time when liberals, not conservatives, were the champions of free speech. Today? Now in Colorado it is punishable to “mis-gender” someone. By speaking truthfully, say calling a man, “a man,” when […]
Yet Another Fix Coming For Older AMD GPUs On Linux - Thanks To Valve Developer
Timur Kristóf of Valve's open-source Linux graphics driver team has been doing a fantastic job enhancing the older AMD Radeon GPU support under Linux
Pokémon GO Events This Week: 23 February
Pokémon GO’s February 23 to March 1 week has us entering the final week of Precious Paths! Enjoy a bumper week of daily raid hours, the build up to Kalos Tour, and the epic Global Kalos Tour event! Plus the weekly rotating Spotlight and Raid Hours, Dynamax Battles and Mega Raids. ⭐Highlights Raid Boss Change […]
Royal Business Equipment in Elyria has served community since 1962
The Royal Business Equipment, 591 Cleveland St. in Elyria, has been a part of the community since 1962. Glenn Pubal, owner of Royal Business Equipment, said his father owned a gas station and also …
Josh Shapiro to neighbors: Get off my lawn
The Pennsylvania governor and Democratic star is embroiled in a dispute with his neighbor that has escalated into an unlikely political saga.
Marine Corps' top enlisted leader wants speedier post-service hiring
The Marines' top Sergeant Major wants companies to start hiring more troops before they leave the military.
Johnny Knoxville's silly and sincere messages for the folks back home
'Jackass' star Johnny Knoxville is raising money for South-Doyle High School's new weight room. Find out how he's giving back to his hometown.
A border district in Texas is flashing warning signs for Republicans in the midterms
We visited Alcazar and South Texas as part of our “All Over the Map” project, an effort to track elections and major issue debates through the eyes of experiences of everyday Americans. That there is good reason to visit speaks volumes about President Donald Trump’s midterm political troubles.
A Vikings Offseason Quarterback Strategy
The Minnesota Vikings are looking to bolster their quarterback room this offseason with at least one quarterback capable of competing for the starting job. There remain enough doubts about J.J. McCarthy’s durability and readiness to operate Kevin O’Connell’s offense that the Vikings are actively pursuing other options to compete for the starting job and possibly […]
Garcia beats Barrios to claim WBC welterweight title
Ryan Garcia secures his first major title with a dominant unanimous decision victory over Mario Barrios in Las Vegas to become the new WBC welterweight champion.
What Gallup polls teach us about presidents
The Gallup organization, founded by George Gallup, announced Feb. 11 they will no longer conduct their well-known polls that rate whether the Americans approve or disapprove the way presidents handle the job. Gallup began these polls in the late 1930s but did not conduct them during World War II. The Gallup staff has said no […]
Saint Mary's defeats Washington State 83-67
PULLMAN, Wash. (AP) Joshua Dent scored 22 points as Saint Mary's beat Washington State 83-67 on Saturday.
Idaho wins 86-80 over Sacramento State
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) Biko Johnson scored 25 points as Idaho beat Sacramento State 86-80 on Saturday.