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30,000 Facebook Accounts Hacked via Google AppSheet Phishing Campaign
30,000 Facebook accounts hacked via AppSheet phishing emails, exploiting Meta lures, leading to large-scale account theft and resale.
Caroline Kennedy makes rare public appearance months after daughter Tatiana's death, 'Love Story' portrayal
Caroline Kennedy made a rare public appearance at a reception honoring King Charles III and Queen Camilla's state visit in New York on Wednesday. The outing came months after the death of her daughter Tatiana Schlossberg, and her depiction on the FX series 'Love Story.'
Light Phone Is Making Its Dumb Phone More Useful With Third-Party ‘Tools’
A new developer program for LightOS allows anyone to create tools for the Light Phone, whether that’s a local public transit app for your city or a way to read ebooks.
Will King Charles' visit clear tensions in US-UK friendship?
King Charles III has won praise for his deft diplomacy and dealings with President Donald Trump in his visit to the United States. Is it enough?
Who was invited to dinner with King Charles: Justices, business leaders and Palm Beach friends
President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump hosted a white-tie dinner at the White House with King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Nearly 130 guests enjoyed Dover sole meunière and a beehive-shaped chocolate dessert on Tuesday night. The guest list included business leaders, tech CEOs and friends from Palm Beach, Florida. The six conservative justices on the Supreme Court also attended, despite Trump’s recent criticism over tariffs. Fox News stars and other conservative media figures were present, along with three of Trump’s children, his father-in-law, sports figures and lawmakers, including House and Senate leaders.
Who was invited to dinner with King Charles: Justices, business leaders and Palm Beach friends
President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump hosted a white-tie dinner at the White House with King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
Jeff Bezos and Tim Cook Among Guests at State Dinner Honoring King Charles III and Queen Camilla
Business leaders, Supreme Court justices, cabinet secretaries and Trump family members attended the white-tie festivities at the White House.
Australia becomes the 30th country to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem
The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated Australia for eliminating trachoma as a public health problem, marking a significant milestone in the health of indigenous peoples and in global efforts to combat neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Trachoma, the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness, no longer represents a public health problem in the country.Australia is among a growing number of countries that have successfully eliminated trachoma, contributing to global progress towards the targets set out in the WHO road map for NTDs 2021–2030.Trachoma is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis and spreads through close contact with infected individuals, contaminated surfaces, and flies that carry eye and nose discharge. Repeated infections can lead to scarring of the eyelids, turning eyelashes inward, and ultimately causing blindness if untreated.“WHO congratulates Australia on this important achievement,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “This success reflects sustained commitment, strong partnerships, and a focus on reaching populations most affected by health inequities. It brings us closer to a world free from the suffering caused by trachoma.”Australia’s journey to eliminationAustralia’s achievement reflects decades of targeted public health action, particularly in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, where trachoma persisted despite its earlier disappearance from the rest of the country.National efforts intensified with the establishment of the National Trachoma Management Programme in 2006, which implemented the WHO-recommended SAFE strategy: surgery for trichiasis, antibiotics to treat infection, promotion of facial cleanliness, and environmental improvement. Regular screening of all communities classified as at-risk of trachoma by teams of qualified health workers formed an important part of the Programme. Interventions were delivered through coordinated partnerships between federal and state governments, Aboriginal community-controlled health services, and local communities.Over time, sustained screening, treatment, and prevention activities, including improvements in housing, water, sanitation and hygiene, led to a steady decline in trachoma prevalence. Australia’s approach included adaptations to reflect its context, such as targeted treatment based on community-level data rather than mass drug administration, and strong integration with environmental health programmes.“Elimination of trachoma is a win for the eye health of communities across Australia, particularly those whose lives have been impacted by a disease that is entirely preventable,” said Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Ageing, Australia. “This major milestone is thanks to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership, community commitment and sustained investment over many decades.“The lessons from this work will inform how we approach other preventable health conditions in remote and regional Australia. Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and local health workers have been central to this success, delivering culturally safe care and community-led solutions.”“This recognition from the World Health Organization reflects decades of work led by Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, alongside local health workers in remote First Nations communities,” said Malarndirri McCarthy, Minister for Indigenous Australians. “Their work has been critical to eliminating trachoma as a public health problem in Australia.”Advancing global efforts against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs)Trachoma is one of 21 diseases and disease groups that are regarded by WHO as NTDs. Together, NTDs affect more than 1 billion people worldwide, primarily in underserved populations with limited access to essential services such as clean water, sanitation, and health care.Australia’s elimination of trachoma as a public health problem highlights the importance of sustained political commitment and cross-sectoral collaboration in addressing the underlying determinants of health. It also underscores the feasibility of eliminating trachoma even in geographically challenging settings.In addition to trachoma, Australia has several endemic NTDs, including Buruli ulcer, leprosy and scabies. Validation of elimination of trachoma as a public health problem marks the first time that WHO has confirmed the elimination of an NTD in Australia, which becomes the 63rd country globally and 16th in the Western Pacific Region to have eliminated at least one NTD.“Tackling neglected tropical diseases in the Western Pacific Region has long been a challenge for countries across the socioeconomic spectrum, given the complexities in reaching the most vulnerable communities, including in remote areas,” said Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. “As a doctor from Tonga, I’ve experienced these challenges for myself. But I also know that with strategic commitment underpinned by optimal resources and partnerships in health, success is possible as other countries in our region have also demonstrated. I commend Australia on eliminating trachoma as a public health problem and urge all involved to remain vigilant to ensure this status is maintained.”WHO continues to support countries working to eliminate trachoma and other NTDs, ensuring that progress reaches those most in need and that gains are sustained through strong surveillance, appropriately integrated into national health systems, and mainstreamed within the wider health sector and beyond.Editor’s notesNeglected tropical diseases and trachoma elimination effortsNeglected tropical diseases are associated with devastating health, social and economic consequences. Their burden is mainly felt among impoverished communities in tropical areas.Public health targets for the control, elimination and eradication of these conditions were set in the road map for neglected tropical diseases 2021–2030 (https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240010352).In 1996, WHO launched the WHO Alliance for the Global Elimination of Trachoma by 2020 (GET2020), creating a network of governments, non-governmental organizations and academic institutions dedicated to the fight against trachoma. WHO continues to support endemic countries to accelerate progress towards the global target of eliminating trachoma as a public health problem worldwide; 2030 is the new target date.Elimination of trachoma as a public health problem is defined as: (i) a prevalence of trachomatous trichiasis (TT) “unknown to the health system” of < 0.2% in ≥15-year-olds; and (ii) a prevalence of trachomatous inflammation—follicular (TF) in children aged 1–9 years of < 5%, in each formerly endemic district, plus (iii) the existence of a system to identify and manage incident cases of TT.Other countries validated by WHO as having eliminated trachoma as a public health problem are: Algeria, Benin, Burundi, Cambodia, China, Egypt, Fiji, Gambia, Ghana, India, Iraq, Islamic Republic of Iran, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Libya, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mexico, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Togo, Vanuatu and Viet Nam.
King Charles III warns U.S.-U.K. relationship cannot rest on history
Hanging over the king’s address and trip to the U.S. is the recent strains between Trump and fellow leaders of European and NATO member countries.
King Charles' speech ‘unified’ both sides of the ‘political aisle:’ Former Margaret Thatcher aide
Former foreign policy advisor to Margaret Thatcher Nile Gardiner reacts to King Charles III's address to Congress on ‘The Story.’
Epstein scandal lingers in background of King Charles’ visit to Washington
As King Charles III and Queen Camilla were being greeted by the US president, first lady and pomp and circumstance designed for royalty at the White House Tuesday morning, a group of individuals who had been denied an in-person meeting with the king and queen took their chance to be heard a couple of miles down Pennsylvania Avenue.
For Joe Kennedy III, a new family business
For former Congressman Joe Kennedy III, energy is the new politics, and the family business.
For Joe Kennedy III, a new family business
For former Congressman Joe Kennedy III, energy is the new politics, and the family business.
Geoff Tate brings ‘Operation Mindcrime’ tour to Iowa City
Geoff Tate’s tour features the entire “Operation: Mindcrime” album and previews new material from “Operation: Mindcrime III” at First Avenue Club in Iowa City.
UToledo Media Communication Senior Finds Success as a Live Sports Storyteller
Graduating Saturday, James “Trip” Floyd III is ready to launch a career in game presentation and production after earning his bachelor’s degree in media communication.
Put it in pencil: NASA's Artemis III mission will launch no earlier than late 2027
SpaceX and Blue Origin tell NASA their lunar landers will be ready for Artemis III in late 2027.
State of Texas: Marijuana reclassification could expand medical research
The federal government is easing restrictions on medical marijuana, reclassifying certain cannabis products from a Schedule I drug to a less restrictive Schedule III — a move that could significant…
Lake Erie College renames program to the Master of Reading Science
Lake Erie College in Painesville has officially renamed its Mastery of Literacy program to the Master of Reading Science, reflecting the college’s full alignment with the Science of Reading and Ohio’s updated expectations for educator pre…
Choice lifestyle: Family business flourishes in tough love for backcountry skiing
Grace Yancey might someday write a book about her childhood winters – the igloo playhouse, a breezy three-sided latrine and visitors from around the world at her Little House in the Purcells.
Marijuana's reclassification raises new questions for the cannabis industry
Medical marijuana is moving from Schedule I status, reserved for the most dangerous drugs like heroin and LSD, to Schedule III, like testosterone and steroids, which are less strictly regulated.
‘We only had moments’: Brantley County wildfire destroys wedding chapel business & home, leaves family starting over
A Brantley County business owner, Ginger Hunter says she is starting over from nothing after a fast-moving wildfire destroyed her home, her wedding chapel, and nearly everything tied to her family’s livelihood.
Blacknut Levels Up: Select Activision Publishing and Blizzard Entertainment Games Now Streamable on Blacknut
Cloud gaming hits new heights with Diablo® III, Spyro® Reignited Trilogy, Crash Bandicoot® N. Sane Trilogy, Warcraft® I: Remastered, Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II, and more via Ubisoft+ Premium on Blacknut Activision-Blizzard Games Now Streaming on Blacknut Cloud gaming hits new heights with Diablo® III, Spyro® Reignited Trilogy, Crash Bandicoot® N. Sane Trilogy, Warcraft® I: Remastered, Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II, and more via Ubisoft+ Premium on Blacknut Paris, France, April 23, 202
Saint Anselm College to move to Division III for sports
Saint Anselm College will soon leave NCAA Division II to compete in the New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference in Division III.
My grandmother sold homemade tamales. Today’s rules wouldn’t allow that.
Home chefs should be able to build a business in Colorado.
Trump, Pope Leo, William F. Buckley and John XXIII: An overview of Popes and Politics in America
A literary spat between ‘America’ and William F. Buckley 65 years ago is proving to have been eerily proleptic in light of Mr. Trump’s war of words against the pope and the latter’s assertion of church teaching on just war.
Sony’s major Xperia 1 VIII redesign looks unconvincing in a new leaked render
Sony may introduce a major redesign to its flagship phones, though some details remain unclear.
Tax relief on the horizon: How federal rescheduling could reshape cannabis business taxes
Rachel Carr Shreves and Crystal Howard of Spencer Fane discuss the proposed federal rescheduling of cannabis to Schedule III and considerations stemming from potential relief from the limitations on certain deductions under Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code.
LIV Golf Mexico City: Jon Rahm, Legion XIII Sweep Individual, Team Titles
Jon Rahm finished at 21 under at Club de Golf Chapultepec to secure a commanding six-shot victory at LIV Golf Mexico City.
Upper Valley spring sports preview: Softball
Oxbow It’s hard to have a conversation about Upper Valley softball without talking about the perennial juggernaut that is Oxbow High. The Olympians enter 2026 coming off yet another undefeated season at 18-0 and another VPA Division III state championship after defeating BFA-Fairfax 13-0. Oxbow has won the state title five years in a row. […]
Tolkkinen: These rural Minnesota Catholics prefer Trump for politics, Pope Leo for theology
Trump’s tussles with Pope Leo haven’t shaken their support.
Prep baseball roundup: Big VIII League receives big-time performances
Norco, Corona and Corona Santiago let their hitters take charge in victories
Dodgers vs. Mets game III chat
The Dodgers conclude their three-game series against the New York Mets on Jackie Robinson Day, looking to get a sweep and take five of six games on the homestand. Shohei Ohtani makes his third start of the season against right-hander Clay Holmes. Ohtani will only be on the mound on Wednesday, as Dalton Rushing is […]
Adobe's Firefly AI Assistant works across Photoshop, Premiere and other apps
Adobe is taking on AI apps like Gemini's Nano Banana with its new prompt-based Firefly AI Assistant.
Rainier, University of Oklahoma Foundation to Build $1.1B Rock Creek Entertainment District in Norman
NORMAN, OKLA. — Rainier Development Co. has executed a master development agreement with the University of Oklahoma Foundation for the planned Rock Creek Entertainment District, a $1.1 billion project in Norman. Rainier will lead planning, design, coordination and development of the 269-acre district in collaboration with Cleveland County, the City of Norman, the University of Oklahoma, community stakeholders and other development partners. Rock Creek Entertainment District is envisioned as a year-round destination that will include an 8,000-seat performance venue designed to host concerts, conventions and community events, as well as University of Oklahoma men’s and women’s basketball games and women’s gymnastics events. Plans for Phase I of Rock Creek include the performance venue; a central outdoor plaza; approximately 140,000 square feet of retail, dining and entertainment experiences; roughly 250 multifamily units; and a structured parking garage with 1,200 spaces. Phased openings of the venue, restaurants and retail are expected to begin in 2028. Phase II will include approximately 180,000 square feet of office space and a 150-room hotel. Phase III calls for 500 additional multifamily units, as well as townhomes and single-family residences. Future phases are anticipated to include additional expansion, subject to market conditions and planning. The project, located…
2025-26 Academic All-America® Woen's Basketball teams announced for all NCAA and NAIA divisions
Four CSC Academic All-America ® Team Member of the Year recipients including University of Connecticut’s Azzi Fudd, Olivia Reed Thyne from Colorado Mesa University, Carroll University’s Natalie Gricius, and Macy Sievers of Dordt University, highlight the 2025-26 CSC Women's Basketball Academic All-America® teams for NCAA Divisions I, II, III and the NAIA announced by College Sports Communicators.
Sony Xperia 1 VIII: Launch details of Sony's new flagship phone surface in the wild
A new leak has now revealed some more information on what to expect from Sony's upcoming flagship smartphone. The Xperia 1 VIII will succeed last year's Xperia VII and could be scheduled to debut on the global market shortly.
Prep sports roundup: Norco moves two games up in Big VIII League baseball race
Corona Centennial upsets Corona 5-2; Norco rolls to 10-3 win over Roosevelt
NFL news, live updates: Texans reportedly pick up fifth-year options on QB C.J. Stroud and edge Will Anderson Jr.
With Orion still flying, NASA is nearing key decisions about Artemis III
One of the questions is what the initial orbit will be for Artemis III."
College Sports Communicators Announces 2025-26 Women's Swimming & Diving Academic All-District
A total of 11 CUNY Athletic Conference women's swimming and diving student-athletes were named to the 2025-26 College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District Team for NCAA Division III announced Tuesday.
Longtime pals Loudon Wainwright III and Chris Smither return to Iowa City for Englert Songwriter Series
Folk singer-songwriters Loudon Wainwright III and Chris Smither will perform together for the Englert Songwriter Series this Thursday, April 9, at the Englert Theatre.
The year in review: Influential people who have died in 2026
As director of the FBI, Robert S. Mueller III transformed the agency into a terrorism-fighting force after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. But Mueller, who died in March, is perhaps
Vivo X300 Ultra vs Sony Alpha A7 full-frame camera: Who wins?
200MP photos from what is currently probably the best camera flagship phone on the market go up against 24MP shots from a Sony Alpha A7 III setup with a Sony 24-70 lens. Which one comes out ahead in which areas can be judged by anyone based on the available original images.
Hiryu no Ken Collection announced for PC
NihonGame has announced Hiryu no Ken Collection, a collection of four early games from the Hiryu no Ken series. It includes Hiryu no Ken, Hiryu no Ken II: Dragon no Tsubasa, Hiryu no Ken III: Gonin…
High school dance, cheer and lacrosse could become sanctioned sports in Louisiana
Representative Roger Wilder III, R-Denham Springs, introduced a resolution that could bring high school dance, cheer and lacrosse under the Louisiana High School Athletic Association's jurisdiction. The move could bring more oversight and structure to the sports.
High school dance, cheer and lacrosse could become sanctioned sports in Louisiana
Representative Roger Wilder III, R-Denham Springs, introduced a resolution that could bring high school dance, cheer and lacrosse under the Louisiana High School Athletic Association's jurisdiction. The move could bring more oversight and structure to the sports.
Far from the Final Four, a protest in track spells out NCAA’s drug-fighting issues across all sports
It was supposed to be a time to celebrate as the top finishers in the NCAA Division III 5,000-meter title race lined up on the eight-tiered podium to receive their trophies. Instead…
Targeting βiii-Tubulin and the roots of science: An interview with Richard F. Ludueña
Professor Emeritus Richard F. Ludueña discusses his novel theoretical framework for cancer chemotherapy, utilising CRISPR-Cas9
Club sports serve as a pathway to varsity level athletics
While club and varsity sports operate as independent units, participants are all athletes on one campus. As a Division III school, opportunities arise for club athletes to play on a bigger field, and vice versa. For senior lacrosse goalkeeper Nichole Allan, the chance did not come until her final semester at Ithaca College.
Science Studio Special Artemis II
During this special for Science Studio, Dr. Keith Pannell receives a series of calls from Dr. Jose Hurtado, member of NASA’s Artemis II and III Science Teams to update him on the status of the Artemis II mission.
King Charles III to make a state visit to the US despite calls to cancel due to the Iran war
i e politics iran-war diplomacy royalty washington-news general-news entertainment world-news | KCBS All News 106.9FM and 740AM
Syracuse two-sport athlete Calvin Russell III out indefinitely
Syracuse two-sport athlete Calvin Russell III, who also played basketball this season, will miss an "indefinite period of time" after suffering an undisclosed injury in spring football practice.
Bill Bliss: Edmonds School District science teacher, researcher
William (Bill) Henry Bliss III 1935-2026 Bill Bliss passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 9, 2026. Family ancestry records reflect three brothers and one sister arriving in Philadelphia […]
Turning big ideas into real business plans through the Latina Entrepreneur Academy
Kentucky basketball is losing another assistant coach this offseason
The Kentucky Wildcats are set to lose another assistant coach, as Alvin Brooks III is expected to head elsewhere.
Winter sports teams earn scholastic honors - Fayetteville-Manlius CSD
All 10 of the Fayetteville-Manlius School District Winter 2025-26 varsity sports earned Scholar-Athlete status from the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) Section III. This accomplishment is earned by 75% or more of the varsity roster having an average grade point average (GPA) of 90% or above; 171 student-athletes earned that accomplishment.
Maine governor candidate King sets education priorities
King said he wants to help teachers by simplifying what it takes to be certified, rewarding high achievers with better pay and giving them opportunities to further their careers.
Meet Three Sagehens Playing Spring Sports in 2026 | Pomona College in Claremont, California
The spring sports season offers a smorgasbord of options for Sagehens fans, with teams taking to the diamond, track, pool, field and golf course to test their mettle against Division III athletes from across the country.
STC HVACR student turns childhood lessons into vision for future business
Currently pursuing an associate degree in Heating, Ventilation, AC and Refrigeration (HVACR) at South Texas College, Cesar Bernal III said he was just 12 years old when he began watching his father turn determination and hard work into a small but thriving air-conditioning business in Weslaco.
Educational Service Center awarded Teach Computer Science 2.0 Grant
The Educational Service Center of the Western Reserve has been awarded $584,614 through the Ohio Teach Computer Science 2.0 State Grant, a competitive initiative funded by the Ohio Department of Higher Education. As part of an $8 million…
Robert S. Mueller III, 81, Dies; Rebuilt F.B.I. and Led Trump Inquiry
After he concluded that Russia had interfered in the 2016 election, he became a target of the president’s anger.
Memphis People in Business for March 19, 2026
A look at promotions, hirings, movers and newsmakers in the Memphis area business scene.
Chairman of The South Carolina Entertainment and Music Hall of Fame
Roy Costner III, Chairman of The South Carolina Entertainment and Music Hall of Fame, looks forward to the future of the state's best
Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Gets A Switch 2 Release, Free Upgrade "Coming Soon"
New 'Challenge Mode' update launches alongside it
Calvin Austin III leaves Steelers, signs with NFC East team
The speedy receiver is headed to play for John Harbaugh.
Tomb Raider I-II-III Remastered now available for Switch 2, iOS, and Android alongside ‘Challenge Mode’ update
Publisher Aspyr and developer Crystal Dynamics have released a Switch 2, iOS, and Android versions of Tomb Raider I-II-III Remastered alongside a free “Challenge Mode” update for existi…
Birmingham playing for Division III state hoops title after losing early in City playoffs
The Patriots regrouped after losing in the City Section playoffs to advance to play Antioch Cornerstone Christian for the title on Friday.
The Republican Party Continues Eating Its Own
What one lawmaker’s defection from the GOP says about the state of politics
Safety Kevin Byard III, NFL's interceptions leader in 2025, reportedly signs 1-year deal with Patriots
Kenneth Walker III signing with Chiefs after Super Bowl MVP effort with Seahawks
Walker was named Super Bowl LX MVP after a 161-yard effort in the Seahawks' win against the Patriots.
NFL news, free agency updates: Tua Tagovailoa released; Kenneth Walker III, Alec Pierce, Mike Evans hit the market as negotiating window opens Monday
Syracuse.com's 2026 spring sports media day flag football roll call
Section III flag football stars take over syracuse.com's 2026 spring sports media day at Cicero-North Syracuse High School on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, and Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Cicero-North Syracuse High School.
Daughter of UFC legend Frank Mir wins NCAA wrestling championship
Wrestling for Division III North Central, Bella Mir defeated Iowa's Reese Larramendy to claim the 145-pound title at the NCAA wrestling championship.
African Public Health Emergency Management Fellowship Cohort III Announcement
CONTEXTCombating the several public health threats across the African continent requires adequately trained and equipped workforce. The Africa Health Security and Sovereignty (AHSS) Agenda has called for self-sustaining health security program that includes workforce development. The call is in alignment with the vision of the African Union (AU) and its desire to build capacity in […]
NFL news, live updates: Colts place transition tag on QB Daniel Jones; Bengals' Trey Hendrickson, Seahawks' Kenneth Walker III not expected to be tagged
NFL news, live updates: Jets reportedly franchise tag RB Breece Hall ahead of Tuesday's deadline; Seahawks not expected to tag Kenneth Walker III
Let’s talk Steelers: Should PIT bring back Calvin Austin III?
The speed threat is set to be a free agent.
Basketball box scores, other sports results for Saturday, February 28, 2026
SATURDAY’S RESULTS Boys Basketball WPIAL CLASS 3A PLAYOFFS Championship Aliquippa 65, South Allegheny 54 ALIQUIPPA (18-6) -- Cleaster Longmire III...
Tennessee State earns 79-71 win against Southeast Missouri State
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (AP) Antoine Lorick III's 22 points helped Tennessee State defeat Southeast Missouri State 79-71 on Thursday.
Section III high school sports scoreboard, stats leaders for Feb. 25
See results for Section III teams.
Star senior leads Episcopal past Newman in Division III Select playoffs
“I knew she would be ready. She’s a senior. She doesn’t want to go home.”
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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