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Kendall Qualls’ lieutenant governor pick misstates age, is opaque about business background
Kendall Qualls — the Army veteran and former health care executive running for the Republicans nomination for Minnesota governor — announced Tuesday that Brian Nicholson will be his running mate, though he offered scant biographical details about the man who would be a heartbeat from the governor’s office. Qualls finished second in the precinct caucus […]
Takeaways from Kristi Noem’s combative Senate Judiciary Committee hearing
Senators grilled Noem about her early descriptions of two US citizens who were killed by federal officers in Minneapolis, her use of executive jets and whether ICE will be sent to polling places
In Senate hearing, Noem blames 'violent protesters' for Minneapolis chaos
It was her first congressional hearing since two protesters were killed in Minneapolis by Homeland Security officers in January
Manfra appointed Purdue’s chief quantum officer
Purdue University announced that quantum computing expert Michael Manfra has been appointed chief quantum officer.
AHCA/NCAL Submits Comments on Health Information Interoperability Proposed Rule
AHCA/NCAL submitted comments recently to the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ASTP/ONC) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in response to ...
This congressman wanted to retire. His identical twin could make history by replacing him
Should Trever Nehls win his Tuesday primary in Texas’ 22nd District and then the general election, he would become the first member of Congress to succeed his identical twin in office.
Detroit Mayor Sheffield appoints Ali Abazeed as city's new chief public health officer
What Is That Mysterious Metallic Device US Chief Design Officer Joe Gebbia Is Using?
Gebbia was reportedly spotted at a San Francisco coffee shop using an unidentified pair of earbuds with a circular disc that looks similar to the device seen in a recent OpenAI hoax ad.
Bedford man barred from conducting any securities business in New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s Bureau of Securities Regulation has barred a Bedford insurance provider from conducting any securities business in the state, Secretary of State David Scanlan’s office announced Monday.
‘Staples Baddie’ prints out a new page of her career
Kaeden Rowland, a 22-year-old print specialist at Staples, has become TikTok famous for her videos about the office supply chain’s products and services. These days, there are other opportunities in her sights.
Underdog Cuts Jobs While Pivoting to Prediction Markets
Underdog has undergone a significant round of layoffs, including cutting two-thirds of its fraud operations team.
Mayor Sheffield taps Dearborn exec as Detroit's chief health officer
Mayor Mary Sheffield announced that Dearborn's former chief public health officer will lead Detroit's health department.
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield appoints public health officer
Sign at local business shot several times; pictures released of possible suspect vehicle
The Spartanburg County Sheriff's Office has released pictures of a possible vehicle involved in the shooting of a local business sign.
'One year of failure.' The Lancet slams RFK Jr.'s first year as health chief
In a scathing review, the top US medical journal's editorial board warned that the "destruction that Kennedy has wrought in 1 in office might take generations to repair."
Burson U.S. sports and entertainment lead exits firm
Chris Console had worked at Burson since 2013.
Sheffield names Dearborn official to become city's new Chief Public Health Officer
Ali Abazeed replaces Denise Fair Razo. After working with the U.S Department of Health and Human Services, he helped establish Dearborn's health department.
Germany Sixteen Tons Entertainment Hire
In this image released on Monday, March 2, 2026, Sebastian Nussbaum, new Chief Creative Officer at Sixteen Tons Entertainment. (Sixteen Tons Entertainment/news aktuell via AP Content Services)
MLV hires ex-NFL executive as league's first commissioner
MLV hired its first commissioner, a former NFL front-office executive, who will now lead the rising league.
AP Decision Notes: What to expect in Arkansas' state primaries
Arkansas voters will choose nominees for a full slate of federal, state and local offices in primary elections Tuesday
South Africa Says Three Senior Health Officials Have Been Arrested
Sandile Buthelezi, the director-general of South Africa’s Department of Health, has been arrested and charged with fraud along with an acting deputy director general and the department’s chief financial officer.
Global webinar on core public health capacities to conduct ship inspections and issue ship sanitation certificates
Ships cross borders every day, connecting countries and serving as a backbone of the global economy. However, outbreaks onboard can disrupt maritime traffic, leading to significant economic and operational negative consequences. Without strong public health capacities to detect, prevent, and respond to public health risks on board ships, maritime travel can also become a pathway for the spread of infectious diseases. To support countries in strengthening these capacities, the World Health Organization (WHO) convened a two-day webinar on 11–12 February, bringing together more than 700 ship inspectors, port health officers, and public health authorities, primarily from the African, Eastern Mediterranean, and European Regions. The webinar came at a pivotal time. With the amended International Health Regulations entering into force on 19 September 2025, the need to focus on public health preparedness has never been greater. Strengthening public health capacities at borders, including onboard conveyances, is a cornerstone of global health security and central to the amended IHR.“The high level of attendance and active participation throughout the two days of the webinar highlighted the growing demand for technical guidance and capacity-building support in ship inspection and issuance of ship sanitation certificates”, said Dr Ninglan Wang, Head of the Borders, Mass Gatherings and Health Protection Measures (BMM) Unit at the Health Emergency Preparedness Department at WHO headquarters. “The dynamic interactions among experts and countries underscored the value of continued cross-border collaboration in the maritime sector and knowledge exchange in this area”. Conducting regular public health inspections on board ships for the issuance of ship sanitation certificates (SSCs) in accordance with the IHR requirements is crucial for ensuring that ships meet specific health standards, thereby minimizing the risk of the international spread of diseases via maritime traffic. These certificates, mandated by the IHR, require ports to have trained personnel who can identify and control public health risks on board vessels and apply recommended control measures. This standardized global procedure not only ensures compliance with the IHR but also promotes consistency in health practices across ports worldwide. SSCs are the globally-recognized tool used to prevent and control known public health risks on ships, providing a common way to register and communicate public health events and measures taken on board between all stakeholders involved in this process, including public health authorities in ports and ship operators. Only SSCs issued by ports authorized by national authorities to issue such certificates are considered valid. As per the IHR, all States Parties are required to send to WHO their list of authorized ports (available here) and to keep it updated. However, many Member States continue to face practical challenges, such as limited resources, high staff turnover, and competing priorities. These realities underscore the value of platforms such as this webinar, which foster collective learning, peer-to-peer exchange, and practical solutions to help countries build and sustain the capacities required under the IHR.Over the two days, participants engaged in presentations and discussions covering a wide range of technical and operational topics, such as the overarching international legal framework governing ship sanitation; considerations for pre-inspection planning; risk assessment factors by type of vessel; the completion and issuance of SSCs and evidence report forms; or practical insights on the inspection of various technical areas, such as food safety, medical facilities, water systems, or vector control, among others. In addition, public health authorities from the Netherlands, Morocco, and Tanzania shared case studies to showcase their practical application of these IHR requirements in their respective countries. Given its success, WHO plans to replicate similar sessions in the future to reach additional time zones and regions and cover other pressing border health-related topics, ensuring that Member States can continue benefiting from these opportunities to share knowledge and expertise.
Oil price spike underscores risks of Trump's Iran strategy
President Donald Trump’s decision to topple the Iranian regime is threatening to torch an oil market his administration has been at pains to keep cool since he returned to office.
Buffettology Without Buffett in Abel’s First Shareholder Letter
Greg Abel has passed his first test since taking over from Warren Buffett as Berkshire Hathaway Inc.’s new chief executive officer. In his introductory shareholder letter, he emphasizes that Berkshire’s culture runs far deeper than a single man. Yet, almost in the same breath, he tells us not to worry — after all, Buffett is still lurking around the office.
6 gear recommendations for home office and business travel
This column features six equipment and gear recommendations for work travel and home office use.
Are Colorado businesses leaving or evacuating?
At this point, if you hear beeping downtown, it’s not a construction crew. It’s a company backing out. And look, I get it. Businesses relocate for all sorts of reasons: taxes, regulations, labor costs, office space, crime, commute times, the haunting feeling your chief executive is one City Council meeting away from being declared a […]
Kickstarter’s C.E.O. on Running a Fully Remote Company With a Four-Day Workweek
Everette Taylor took over Kickstarter at a low moment for the crowdfunding pioneer, which made its name with small projects but now attracts major multinationals and celebrities.
How to run your 2026 March Madness pool: Play for prizes, plus create your own NCAA Tournament game
The CBS Sports 2026 NCAA Men's and Women's Games have returned for March Madness 2026 office pools.
CBF attends event with Brazilian business leaders in the USA
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), represented by Bruno Costa, head of the entity's international office, was present at the first edition of "Kick Off! Brazil in Miami 2026.” The event, wh...
From box office bomb to media powerhouse: Skydance’s 20-year rise to overtake Paramount, Warner Bros
It's a come-from-behind story fit for Hollywood itself. Skydance's unlikely triumph in the battle for Warner Bros. Discovery, sealed with Netflix's step back, is a win two decades in the
How the ICE Raids Turned Minnesota Politics Upside Down
Several top state and federal offices are up for grabs amid a period of crisis with few if any precedents in the state’s history.
‘Trump’s not enough. And he knows he’s not enough’: California governor Gavin Newsom on populism, ‘purity tests’ and whether he’ll run for the presidency
He’s the Democratic politician with movie-star looks and a picture-perfect family, dogged by accusations of being a smooth‑talking elitist. Can he really unite the American left and win the most powerful office in the world?
Downtown office market on the mend.
New report finds office vacancy rate in the core of downtown is falling faster than other key business districts.
Caregiver tax credit, athlete exemption from PE: CT politics news
Plus: Proposals for a bigger Correction Ombuds office, a life jacket requirement for children and more Office of the Child Advocate staff.
Kamala Harris Endorses Jasmine Crockett in Texas Senate Race
The endorsement from the former vice president, her most significant since leaving office, comes as Ms. Crockett is facing a competitive Democratic primary contest against James Talarico.
David Ellison Used Political Ties, Deep Pockets to Buy Warner Bros.
After the board of Warner Bros. Discovery Inc. concluded a meeting Thursday afternoon, Chief Executive Officer David Zaslav called David Ellison and Ted Sarandos to let them know the results. The board had deemed Ellison and Paramount Skydance Corp.’s latest bid superior to that of Netflix Inc. and Sarandos.
Intuit’s CFO isn’t flinching at AI. He says it’s fueling the company’s next growth phase
He sees opportunity where others see risk.
Bee Cave entertainment district to bring pickleball courts, eateries
In addition to a sports lounge and courts, the 35,000-square-foot site will also host retailers, medical offices and “luxury eateries with a sensory experience,” according to the developer’s...
New $11.3M luxury pickleball and entertainment district coming to Bee Cave in 2027
In addition to a sports lounge and courts, the 35,000-square-foot site will also host retailers, medical offices and “luxury eateries with a sensory experience,” according to the developer’s website.
Anaheim police shot and killed man in mental health crisis, family says
The family of a man fatally shot by Anaheim police has filed a claim against the city, alleging officers used unnecessary deadly force while he was suffering a mental health episode.
Incumbent Monroe County DA Brian Green launches reelection campaign
Gov. Kathy Hochul appointed Green to the office in the fall after former DA Sandra Doorley resigned last August.
Texas Comptroller ends Austin’s ability to certify historically underutilized business
The Texas Comptroller office ended the Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) with the city of Austin which allowed them to certify business on behalf of the Texas Comptroller's office. MOAs originally allowed ...
Texas Comptroller ends Austin’s ability to certify historically underutilized business
The Texas Comptroller office ended the Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) with the city of Austin which allowed them to certify business on behalf of the Texas Comptroller’s office. MOAs originall…
Austin PD focuses on officers’ mental health support
At the Austin Police Department, a range resources are available to officers both before and after critical incidents.
Mom says son had mental health issues before Walnut Creek police fatally shot him
A mother is speaking out after a Walnut Creek police officer shot and killed her son early Thursday morning.
Bombardier has chance to boost business jet sales in India, says CEO
MONTREAL, Feb 26 () - India's efforts to improve its airport infrastructure will give Bombardier a chance to boost sales of business jets there, chief executive officer Eric Martel told reporters on Thursday. (Reporting by Allison Lampert, editing by David Ljunggren).
TXBIZ PAC Announces 2026 Texas Primary Election Endorsements for Pro-Business Candidates
AUSTIN, TX — Today, TXBIZ PAC, the political action committee representing the Texas Association of Business, released its full list of endorsed candidates for the March 3rd, 2026 Primary Elections. “The TXBIZ PAC Board is proud to endorse candidates and officeholders who are committed to protecting and strengthening Texas’ unrivaled pro-business climate,” said TXBIZ PAC…
City of Pasadena Announces Health Officer
PASADENA, Calif. – The Director of Public Health Manuel Carmona has selected Dr. Parveen Kaur to be the next Health Officer at the Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD). Dr. Kaur has served as Acting Health Officer since 2023 and will continue to provide medical direction to clinical programs, issue public health policy and guidance, and […]
New AirSnitch attack breaks Wi-Fi encryption in homes, offices, and enterprises
That guest network you set up for your neighbors may not be as secure as you think.
Penn Entertainment Is Staying Away From Prediction Markets
The CEO says the company has no plans to enter prediction markets. He wants the Supreme Court to weigh in on the “controversial” industry.
Announcing a Transformational Gift for Mental Health - UCLA Office of the Chancellor
Chancellor Frenk shared this message with the Bruin community. Dear Bruin Community: We are pleased to announce a landmark $100 million gift from Stewart and Lynda Resnick that will help expand world-class behavioral health care at UCLA Health and support...
Lawmakers call on Hochul to close Erie County child care funding gap
The group sent a letter to the governor's office saying Erie County is facing a $23.1 million deficit in the Child Care Assistance Program.
To fight ‘inherent distrust,’ Utah lawmakers say lieutenant governor shouldn’t run elections
Following false claims of election fraud, Utah lawmakers are advancing a proposal to remove election oversight from the lieutenant governor's office.
As literacy rates lag, a pediatric hospital is screening for reading ability
For some young children in Columbus, Ohio, reading assessments don’t start in the kindergarten classroom — they happen first in the doctor’s office.
Exclusive: Third Way Health raises $15M for front-office AI
As many startups eye building AI platforms to break the "point solution" mold, Third Way is hoping providers hand over the keys to several admin tasks.
Home Office denies ‘absurd’ criticism over rule change that could leave dual nationals stranded
MPs raise cases of honeymooners and other Britons caught out by new passport requirements as minister rejects calls for a grace period
Political Candidates and the Troubling Chill Factor
Whether it’s political polarization, ruthless social media or federal interference, this is a particularly tough time to be in elected office in a city or a state.
Nonprofit transforms former Airbnb office in Old Town into family-focused business incubator
Big Pink owner buys another Portland building on the cheap
If now is the time to buy Portland offices for a song, Jeff Swickard is singing.
How prison staffing shortages are driving away mental health staff
Correctional officers are leaving their jobs at federal prisons. And when these prisons are understaffed – psychologists and other staff are asked to act as guards. Recent reporting from The Marshall Project says it’s pushing mental health professionals out of prisons. For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Email us at considerthis@npr.org.This episode was produced by Jason Fuller and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Ted Mebane.It was edited by Jeanette Woods and Courtney Dorning.Our executive producer is Sami Yenigun.
Slash Interruptions With Microsoft Office 2024 Home and Business
Increase your daily productivity with these elite AI-powered programs.
First Diocesan Science Fair Celebrates Creativity, Experimentation
The Catholic Schools Office hosted its first-ever diocesan-wide science fair on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
Balancing act: Top general tries to avoid conflict with Trump while preparing for possible war with Iran
As Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Dan Caine has been drafting military options for potentially striking Iran, a steady stream of top officials from the Army, Navy and Air Force have been quietly summoned directly to his office.
Robert Adamson, RWJBarnabas Health Chief Information Officer, Honored by Becker’s Hospital Review as a 2026 CIO to Know
Robert T. Adamson, PharmD, FASHP, Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer of RWJBarnabas Health, was honored as one of just 135 hospital and health system CIOs to know nationwide by Becker’s Hospital Review. This is the second consecutive year that Dr. Adamson has appeared on this list.
Exclusive | Spy Agency Blocks Congress From Seeing Gabbard Whistleblower Intelligence
Tulsi Gabbard’s office rejected Democratic efforts to see all the underlying material about a foreign conversation that discussed Jared Kushner.
WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region and Pan American Health Organization sign agreement to strengthen hospital resilience
25 February 2026 (EMRO/PAHO)—WHO’s Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) have signed a Memorandum of Arrangement to strengthen collaboration on making hospitals safer and better prepared for health emergencies and disasters. At a time of growing instability and constrained resources, this collaboration positions hospitals as a dependable anchor for communities, ensuring they remain open, functional, and capable of delivering life-saving care when it matters most.
Hall among leaders honored with West Virginia Leadership Business awards
Joshua Hall, Milan Puskar Dean of the John Chambers College of Business and Economics, is the recipient of The State Journal’s inaugural West Virginia Business Leadership award for Chief Operating Officer of a Medium-Sized Business.
Patriotism over politics: USA Hockey team honored by Trump amid backlash
U.S. Men's Hockey team faces backlash after their White House visit as Joe Concha defends them. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani downplays a snowball attack that injured NYPD officers.
WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region and Pan American Health Organization sign agreement to strengthen hospital resilience
Cairo, Egypt, 25 February 2026 — WHO’s Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) have signed a Memorandum of Arrangement to strengthen collaboration on making...
Maui businesses encouraged to participate in 2026 Maui Nui Business Health Check Survey
The County of Maui Office of Economic Development is encouraging Maui County businesses to participate in the Maui Nui Business Health Check, a countywide survey focused on understanding current business conditions and identifying opportunities that support recovery, stability and long-term growth.
Live updates: Trump to deliver State of the Union address
President Donald Trump is set to deliver the State of the Union address tonight — his first since returning to office for a second term.
How to run your 2026 March Madness pool: Play for prizes, create your own NCAA Tournament game
The CBS Sports 2026 NCAA Men's and Women's Games have returned for March Madness 2026 office pools.
Burglary suspect caught in business's air vent by DeKalb County K-9 officer, police say
A burglary suspect is in custody after police say a DeKalb County K9 officer caught them hiding inside a restaurant supply store's air vents.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue Appoints Christopher Wilson as Chief Nursing Officer - NYC Health + Hospitals
New York, NY – NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue today announced the appointment of Christopher G. Wilson, MSN, RN, CNML, CENP, NEA-BC, FACHE as Chief
MVHS Medical Offices Moving to State Street in Utica
Several Mohawk Valley Health System medical offices are moving to a new location in Utica.
Why Savannah Bananas Are Expanding Their ESPN Deal
The Savannah Bananas will have 25 games air on ESPN platforms in 2026, including the baseball entertainment team's ABC debut.
Olaplex links with ‘SNL’ star to blend science, style and humor in new ads
Chloe Fineman serves as Chief Hair Officer for “Science Never Looked So Good,” a campaign that promotes the hair care brand’s bond repair treatment.
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Dr. Cliff Moore, the chief medical officer at Women’s Hospital, holds the two Cardiotocography monitors that are currently used during delivery to monitor the heat rate and contractions on Monday,
Trump says he's kept all of his campaign promises. PolitiFact's MAGA-Meter shows otherwise
President Donald Trump has said he already delivered on all he returned to office to do. The truth? Trump fulfilled a decent chunk of his domestic agenda in his first year, but many promises remain undelivered.
Trump's big speech will be delivered to a changed nation and a Congress he has sidelined
One year back in office, Trump has emerged as a president defying conventional expectations. He has executed a head-spinning agenda, upending priorities at home, shattering alliances abroad and challenging the nation's foundational system of checks and balances.
Jill Basinger Joins Stris & Maher To Lead Media, Entertainment & Sports Practice
Jill Basinger has joined Stris & Maher LLP as a partner to lead its Media, Entertainment and Sports Litigation practice from the firm's Los Angeles office.
Jeanine Pirro's office shelves pursuit of Democrats over social video, sources say
A federal grand jury in D.C. unanimously rejected the attempt to indict six lawmakers who told military and intelligence community members on social media not to obey unlawful orders.
Dirty Business review – if this doesn’t incite righteous anger over our filthy water then nothing will
Based on the true story of amateur sleuths appalled at the dumping of sewage in our rivers, this drama starring David Thewlis is a blast of controlled fury – and could become the next Mr Bates vs the Post Office
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: COMPUTER SCIENCE PROGRAM
Welcome to Viking News’ In the Spotlight, a Q&A series highlighting how Del Mar College departments, programs, and offices are using technology and innovation to enhance services, strengthen partnerships, and improve student success.Each post “spotlights” a different author sharing – in their own words – how these advancements shape th...
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.
The High Rates of Mental Health Struggles
New research from Special Olympics Health, authored by SOI Chief Health Officer, Dr. Dimitri Christakis was published in JAMA Network Open titled: Anxiety, Depression, and Care Barriers in Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
AMC Entertainment beats revenue estimates as box office recovers
AMC Entertainment beat Wall Street expectations for fourth-quarter revenue on Monday, offering a sign of confidence in the slow recovery of cinema traffic from pandemic-era lows.
Pingree to boycott Trump’s State of the Union address
Rep. Jared Golden said he will watch the speech from home and Sen. Angus King's office said his schedule is still in flux. Republican Sen. Susan Collins plans to attend the speech.
AMC Entertainment posts results topper aided by box office recovery
AMC Q4 earnings beat: revenue tops estimates as North American box office recovers.
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.
Mike Wampold has developed properties across the region. He's bullish on Baton Rouge.
Developer Mike Wampold has a vast portfolio that includes hotels, apartments, office buildings and an 1800-acre planned community. His focus these days is on Baton Rouge, where he sees untapped potential.
‘Wuthering Heights’ reaches remarkable lows: subpar adaptation
Released on Feb. 13, “Wuthering Heights” has acquired approximately $83 million in gross revenue from the box offices globally since premiering, with numbers continuing to climb. Starring Margot Robbie as
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
Uniting to respond to mental health impacts of digital violence
Technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV), from doxxing and cyberstalking to cyberbullying and online harassment, is reshaping how women and girls navigate digital spaces. Globally, an estimated 23% of women have experienced digital violence. In Indonesia, reported cases of TFGBV reached 1,791 in 2024, a 40.8% increase from the previous year. Yet very few survivors seek help, leaving lasting effects on their mental health and wellbeing. As part of the multi-UN agencies UNiTE campaign for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health (MoH) co-hosted a talk show on 6 December 2025 to spotlight this urgent issue. The event brought together voices from Meta, the Indonesian Clinical Psychologist Association and Dr Vivi Syarif, a WHO Fides content creator, creating a cross-sectoral dialogue on the magnitude and mental health impact of digital violence. The talk show introduced psychological first aid as a vital initial intervention that communities can provide to survivors. This intervention aligns with the Psychological First Aid: Guide for Field Workers, a framework that has been standardized for over a decade. The "look, listen, link" approach focuses on ensuring safety and urgent needs, reassuring survivors and connecting them to appropriate services. In addition to this public health approach, Meta also outlined mechanisms to respond to digital violence and reaffirmed its commitment to building safer digital spaces by continuously updating community guidelines based on user feedback. Such collaborative discussions help connect community engagement initiatives with daily digital life. They empower audiences not only to understand how the health sector and industry are responding, but also to educate others, promote first-line support and encourage referrals to appropriate help. By fostering awareness and engagement, these dialogues strengthen collective resilience against digital violence. Written by Jessie O. Yunus, National Professional Officer (Gender, Equity, Rights and Disability Inclusion), WHO Indonesia
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