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Inherited diseases don't work like we thought they did
"Monogenic" diseases, triggered by mutations in just one gene, may actually be more complex than scientists thought.
Google is winding down the Pixel Studio app
In light of other Google image generation features and integrations, Pixel Studio is going away. It was introduced...
Pokémon's 10th generation Winds and Waves will not release until 2027 and is exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2
Pokémon Wind and Waves, the 10th generation of mainline games, have been revealed for the first time during today's 30th anniversary celebration stream.
Scientists discover diet that tricks the body into burning fat without exercise
Researchers found that cutting two amino acids common in animal protein—methionine and cysteine—made mice burn significantly more energy. The boost in heat production was nearly as powerful as constant exposure to cold temperatures. The mice didn’t eat less or exercise more; they simply generated more heat in their beige fat. The discovery hints that diet alone might activate the body’s calorie-burning machinery.
Preparing and Supporting the Next Generation of Health Care Leaders
The AHA Next Generation Leaders Fellowship focuses on developing leaders and empowering them to bring about real and lasting change in the hospitals and health systems in which they serve, as well as in our field overall.
Jack Dorsey struck an 'empathetic' tone with Block's massive layoffs
The CEO's empathetic and transparent tone and a relatively generous layoff package, are gaining respect amid a 40% workforce reduction at Block.
How A $200 Million Pea Protein Business Is Fueling The Ozempic Generation
Since the 1980s, the Lorenzen family has grown its protein powder business, Puris, into an AgTech power player. Now the preferred supplier for food brands seeking craveable recipes for GLP-1 users—it’s helping America become ‘protein independent
9/11 first responders get health care for life | FOX 13 Tampa Bay
More than two decades after the September 11 attacks, first responders who rushed into danger are now being guaranteed lifetime healthcare coverage following new legislation passed by Congress earlier this month. FOX 13's Genevieve Curtis reports.
US Olympic hockey player distances himself from White House video trashing Canadians
While the Trump administration has shown no hesitation to bash Canada – especially after the US men’s Olympic hockey team won gold in overtime – one of the players took issue with a recent AI-generated TikTok posted by the White House that made it sound like he was trash-talking Canadians.
Sixth-generation Van Dyke Grocery in Atchison to close after 120 years
After 120 years in business, a sixth-generation family grocery store in Atchison is preparing to close its doors for good.
Arkansas surgeon general highlights efforts to expand prenatal, postpartum care
Arkansas officials say expanding early prenatal care and improving access in rural communities are key steps in addressing the state’s ongoing maternal health c
Hands-On With Nano Banana 2, the Latest Version of Google's AI Image Generator
Google’s latest image model, Nano Banana 2, is a powerful AI photo editor that punctures reality. Well, sometimes.
What's Coming in the M5 MacBook Air
Along with the low-cost MacBook, Apple could introduce a refreshed version of the MacBook Air next week. Most of the focus will be on the new machine, but the MacBook Air is expected to get some useful internal updates. M5 Chip The next-generation MacBook Air will adopt the M5 chip, which Apple already introduced in the iPad Pro and MacBook Pro models that came out last year.
Ken Paxton’s daughter defends him after a John Cornyn ad accuses him of ‘dirty deeds’
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton deployed his daughter to vouch for him Thursday after a scathing attack ad released by Sen. John Cornyn in their increasingly contentious Republican Senate primary race.
Spring sports events in Clarksville to generate up to $12 million in visitor spending
Through April, Visit Clarksville is hosting a series of sporting events expected to bring more than 23,000 athletes, coaches, and spectators to the area.
ContextLogic Completes $907.5 Million Acquisition of US Salt, Marking Transformation into Business Ownership Platform
Transaction Creates Leading Public Business Ownership Platform with Strong Cash Generation and Approximately $2.9 Billion in NOLsOAKLAND, Calif., Feb. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ContextLogic Holdings Inc. (OTCQB: LOGC) (“ContextLogic,” the “Company,” “we” or “our”) today announced the successful completion of its acquisition of US Salt Parent Holdings, LLC and its subsidiaries (collectively, “US Salt”) from private equity funds managed by Emerald Lake Capital Management (“Emerald Lake”) in a t
Four Key Moments: Hearing on Advancing the Next Generation of America’s Health Care Workforce
WASHINGTON, D.C. – There remains a critical need for more physician training and medical residencies located in rural communities across the...
Super-ager brain: What to know
New research suggests that super-agers generate twice as many neurons as typical older adults. But you don't have to be a super-ager to stay sharp.
Super-ager brain: What to know
New research suggests that super-agers generate twice as many neurons as typical older adults. But you don't have to be a super-ager to stay sharp.
A genetic analysis reveals new details on ancient couplings between humans and Neanderthals
Ancient linkups may have happened more frequently between female humans and male Neanderthals, according to an new genetic analysis.
Google releases Nano Banana 2 AI image generator, promises Pro results with Flash speed
Google's new image model replaces the previous versions immediately.
Google launches Nano Banana 2 model with faster image generation
Google is making Nano Banana 2 a default model in Gemini app and in AI mode
Apollo rocks reveal the Moon had brief bursts of super-strong magnetism
Scientists at the University of Oxford have finally settled a decades-long mystery about the Moon’s magnetic field — and it turns out both sides were right. By reanalyzing Apollo mission rocks, they discovered that the Moon did occasionally generate an incredibly powerful magnetic field, even stronger than Earth’s — but only for fleeting bursts lasting thousands of years or less. Most of the time, the Moon’s magnetic field was weak.
The more you fear aging, the faster your body may age
Worrying about getting older—especially fearing future health problems—may actually speed up aging at the cellular level, according to new research from NYU. In a study of more than 700 women, those who felt more anxious about aging showed signs of faster biological aging in their blood, measured using cutting-edge “epigenetic clocks.” Fears about declining health had the strongest link, while concerns about beauty or fertility didn’t appear to have the same biological impact.
SEC, Big Ten study: Pooling TV rights 'dangerously unworkable'
A study commissioned by the SEC and the Big Ten concluded that allowing conferences to pool their media rights would generate less revenue than if the leagues continue the decades-old practice of selling their own games.
How A.I.-Generated Videos Are Distorting Your Child’s YouTube Feed
Experts caution that low-quality, A.I.-generated videos on YouTube geared toward children often feature conflicting information, lack plot structure and can be cognitively overwhelming — all of which could affect young children’s development.
States Sue to Block Trump’s ‘Anti-Science’ Vaccine Policy
Climate change helps spread vaccine-preventable diseases. But the Trump administration’s reduced vaccine schedule “throws science out the window,” and makes Americans more vulnerable to infections, state attorneys general charge in a new lawsuit.
GM Joe Hortiz hints at Chargers' free agency plans
Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz revealed where the team plans to focus in free agency next month.
Nate Bittle scores 20, Oregon beats Wisconsin 85-71
EUGENE, Ore. (AP) Nate Bittle scored 20 points, Takai Simpkins added 17, and Oregon beat Wisconsin 85-71 on Wednesday night.
Phonak ambassadors spotlight hearing health for the next generation on World Hearing Day
STÄFA, Switzerland, Feb. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Phonak, a global leader in innovative hearing solutions, will mark World Hearing Day on March 3 with a global campaign across three continents, putting youth hearing health at the center of the conversation. Together, with its three international ambassadors, Phonak inspires children and teens to protect their hearing, understand the risks of hearing loss, and feel confident to dream big with the support of modern hearing technology. Accordin
SocGen Expands Japan Credit Business With Santander, UBS Hires
Societe Generale SA has hired two senior people for its business selling credit products in Japan, as opportunities in the country spur global banks to expand their local presence.
MAHA, Subdued
The nominee for surgeon general kept her most eccentric wellness beliefs largely in check at her confirmation hearing.
Takeaways from hearing to confirm surgeon general nominee Casey Means
Casey Means was questioned in a confirmation hearing on everything from her stance on the flu shot to her lack of an active medical licence.
WATCH: Markey asks Dr. Means if Trump's order promoting glyphosate production puts health at risk
WATCH: Markey asks Dr. Means if Trump's order promoting glyphosate production puts health at risk
‘The Chosen’ effect: How the biblical drama opened the door for a new era in faith entertainment
The mega-success of ‘The Chosen’ is generating fresh momentum while redefining expectations for faith-based storytelling
Small Business Admin. IG Testifies on Fraud in Small Business Relief Programs
Small Business Administration Inspector General William Kirk and Pandemic Response Accountability Committee Executive Director Kenneth Dieffenbach testify on fraud in small business relief programs before the Senate Small Business Committee.
New York sues video game developer Valve, says its 'loot boxes' are gambling
New York's attorney general sued Valve, a video game developer whose franchises include Counter-Strike, Team Fortress and Dota, accusing it of violating state gambling laws and threatening to addict children through its use of "loot boxes."
Surgeon general nominee Means questioned about vaccines, birth control and financial conflicts
During a confirmation hearing, senators asked Dr. Casey Means about her current positions and her past statements on a range of public health issues.
Meet the influencer Trump wants in charge of U.S. health
Wellness influencer Dr. Casey Means — a Stanford-trained physician and co-founder of Levels — is President Trump’s nominee for U.S. surgeon general.
WATCH: Surgeon General nominee Means says health problems reflect nation with a 'broken heart,' 'society losing its mind'
Dr. Casey Means, a wellness influencer allied with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., says she wants to address the root causes of chronic disease if chosen as the nation’s doctor.
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.
Sens. Mullin and Sanders get into spat over fixing healthcare in America
Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., criticized Sen. Bernie Sanders, D-Vt., for the state of healthcare in the U.S. during a Senate hearing on the nomination of Dr. Casey Means for surgeon general.
Casey Means faces the Senate health committee in a confirmation hearing to be U.S. surgeon general
NEW YORK — Dr. Casey Means, a wellness influencer, author and entrepreneur aligned with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his Make...
Casey Means faces Senate health committee in confirmation hearing for US surgeon general
Live updates: Trump, GOP celebrate wins; surgeon general pick faces Senate
President Trump delivered a record-setting State of the Union address Tuesday night, when he zeroed in on his signature economic and foreign policies, while laying criticism on the Supreme Court an…
Casey Means faces Senate committee in hearing to be U.S. surgeon general
Means will likely face questions about her qualifications and potential conflicts
Scientists Found a Protein That Could Keep Your Brain From Growing Old
As we age, neuron production declines in the human brain, but scientists just identified the protein key to regenerating neural stem cells.
Casey Means faces the Senate health committee in a confirmation hearing to be US surgeon general
NEW YORK (AP) — Dr. Casey Means, a wellness influencer, author and entrepreneur aligned with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his Make America Healthy Again movement, will appear before the…
Casey Means faces confirmation hearing to be US surgeon general
Wellness influencer and entrepreneur Dr. Casey Means is set to appear before the Senate health committee as she seeks approval to be U.S. surgeon general.
Trump’s pick for surgeon general, Casey Means, heads to Senate hearing months after maternity delay
A prominent voice in the “Make America Healthy Again” movement appears before a Senate committee this morning in a bid to become the nation’s top doctor.
Attorney General James Sues Game Developer for Promoting Illegal Gambling Through Video Games
Click to read more.
UTA appoints Lal to lead precision health, informatics
Dennis Lal, a renowned neurogenetics expert, succeeds Marion Ball at the Center for Innovation in Health Informatics
WHO Director-General visits Jordan to recognize strong collaboration on health system delivery, emergency relief and advancing mental health
The Director-General of the World Health Organization, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, today concluded the first day of his two-day State visit to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, underscoring the strong partnership between WHO and Jordan across the areas of universal health coverage (UHC), mental health and humanitarian health action.
Hearing for surgeon general pick Casey Means to test MAHA agenda
Casey Means, Trump’s nominee for surgeon general, will face senators asking questions about her medical credentials, stance on vaccines and RFK Jr.’s agenda.
Seahawks GM 'catching up' after Super Bowl, clears air on Kenneth Walker
A little more than two weeks since winning Super Bowl 60, the Seattle Seahawks' general manager can bask in the glory. But barely bask.
Casey Means, Critic of Mainstream Medicine, May Become Nation’s Top Doctor
Dr. Means, a wellness influencer and President Trump’s nominee for surgeon general, will appear before a Senate committee Wednesday.
Trump surgeon general pick Dr. Casey Means to appear in Senate hearing
Dr. Casey Means, a wellness influencer and close ally of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has been tapped for the role of the nation’s doctor.
EU’s tech ban; China’s mysterious Nantianmen project: 7 science highlights
From a leading biologist leaving US for China to a semiconductor breakthrough, here are some highlights from SCMP’s recent science reporting.
Seatmate politics - Live Updates
So much for interparty solidarity. Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), who earlier in the day telegraphed plans to sit together during the State of the Union, have evidently abandoned that idea. State of the UnionMassie wrote on X before Trump’s address that he was seated on the Republican side of the chamber. Khanna is sitting next to former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. But Reps. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) and Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.), who often work together, are seated together along with some other Republicans. Mia McCarthy contributed to this report.
How One Gene Affects Alzheimer’s Risk | Science Friday
An estimated 500,000 people are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in the United States each year, but the causes and mechanisms of the condition remain a neurological mystery. A rece...
Scientists finally solve the mystery of the horse whinny
Horses have a vocal trick no one fully understood until now. Scientists have discovered that when a horse whinnies, it produces two completely different sounds at the same time. One is a deep tone created by vibrating the vocal folds, similar to how humans sing. The other is a high-pitched whistle generated inside the larynx, something never before confirmed in a large mammal. This rare ability, known as biphonation, likely helps horses send multiple emotional signals in a single call.
YouTube's More Affordable Premium Lite Plan Gets New Perks
YouTube today updated its Premium Lite subscription plan with new features, including background play and downloads. Subscribers will be able to watch most videos ad-free offline and in the background. Prior to now, downloads and background play were features that were limited to the more expensive Premium plan. YouTube Premium Lite is priced at $7.99 per month in the U.S., while YouTube Premium is priced at $13.99 per month.
Healthy Returns: What’s next for Novo Nordisk’s next-generation obesity drug CagriSema after trial miss
The Danish drugmaker released late-stage data showing that the upcoming injection CagriSema failed to match the weight loss of Eli Lilly’s Zepbound.
Buss: When 'health education' expands to sex, lines blur
The real issue isn’t whether Michigan has separated sex education from general health ed on paper — it has.
All eyes on a state tax cut - Talk Business & Politics
In the General Election on Nov. 2, 2010, Arkansas voters approved Constitutional Amendment 86, which required the General Assembly to meet annually, with even-numbered years designated as the fiscal session....
DOJ v. OhioHealth Confirms Antitrust Enforcers’ Continued Focus on Health Care Markets
On February 20, 2026, the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division (DOJ) and Ohio Attorney General (Ohio AG) sued OhioHealth Corporation (OhioHealth), alleging that OhioHealth had unlawfully…
Manipulating gene activity to reverse aging
By altering levels of molecules called transcription factors in mice, researchers were able to reverse some of the effects of aging.
SRU hosts high school science competition and career fair
Empowering the next generation of problem-solvers and leaders, Slippery Rock University welcomed nearly 300 area high school students…
Three friends built a $240,000 food truck business
Three entrepreneurs bought a former mobile dentistry RV for $5,000 and turned it into a food truck that now generates around $240,000 in annual sales.
Can solar storms trigger earthquakes? Scientists propose surprising link
Scientists have proposed a surprising connection between solar flares and earthquakes. When solar activity disturbs the ionosphere, it may generate electric fields that penetrate fragile fracture zones in Earth’s crust. If a fault is already critically stressed, this extra electrostatic pressure could help trigger a quake. The idea doesn’t claim direct causation, but it offers a fresh way to think about how space weather and seismic events might interact.
If you think politics shaped these Winter Olympics, just wait until LA 2028
In Milan, athletes showed that patriotism can be generous. In Los Angeles, that definition will be tested on the biggest, loudest stage sport can offer
Villanova Athletics Announces Strategic Revenue Partnership with NOCAP Sports
Villanova, Pa.—Villanova Athletics has partnered with NOCAP Sports to launch a new initiative focused on generating sustainable revenue through strategic business relationships.
Fat or Skinny Fat: Both Can Harm Your Health | Join the Anti-Obesity Health Base: Outsmart the Obesity Threat Together
Hong Kong is a world-renowned food paradise, offering everything from local snacks like fish balls and egg waffles to Michelin-starred culinary experiences. However, maintaining a healthy weight amidst fast-paced lifestyles, high pressure, and even genetic factors has become a relentless battle. Excessive fat accumulation poses significant health risks, and even those with a seemingly slender physique can fall into the trap of obesity. Today, obesity is no longer just a cosmetic concern; it is c
Ex-Tennessee Titans GM Jon Robinson lands a new job
Former Tennessee Titans general manager Jon Robinson was hired by Miami Dolphins as a senior personnel executive.
Sound science should drive Colorado’s pesticide policy
By Paul Schlagel As a Coloradan and fourth-generation sugar beet farmer, my relationship with the land and my livelihood depend on balancing healthy soil, vibrant crops, and clean water. Achieving this balance — and providing food to my neighbors here in Longmont — requires essential tools such as scientifically researched and tested pesticides. That’s why […]
Stigma to Science: Yale’s Role in Changing Our Understanding of Obesity and Its Treatment
Yale research helped redefine obesity as a chronic metabolic disease and advanced next-generation treatments.
OnePlus 16 leak reveals sub-1 mm display bezels
The next-generation OnePlus flagship, expected to be called the OnePlus 16, has appeared in a fresh leak. It suggests the device could feature even thinner bezels than the OnePlus 15.
Trump Says General Caine Sees Easy Victory if U.S. Attacks Iran
The remarks differ from what Gen. Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is said to have told the president in high-level White House meetings.
Scientists engineer bacteria to eat cancer tumors from the inside out
Researchers are engineering bacteria to invade tumors and consume them from the inside. Because tumor cores lack oxygen, they’re the perfect breeding ground for these microbes. The team added a genetic tweak that helps the bacteria survive longer near oxygen-exposed edges — but only once enough of them are present to trigger the change. It’s a carefully programmed biological attack that could one day offer a new way to destroy cancer.
Tarsus Reports Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2025 Financial Results and Recent Business Achievements
Generated full-year 2025 net product sales of XDEMVY® of $451.4 million, an increase of more than 150% year-over-year Providing expected XDEMVY peak sales potential of more than $2 billion Extending category-creating leadership with initiation of Phase 2 trial of TP-04 in ocular rosacea (OR) and plans to initiate a Phase 2 trial of TP-05 for Lyme disease prevention in Q2 2026 Management to host conference call today, February 23, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. PT / 4:30 p.m. ET IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 23, 2026
San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering brings industry leaders to Petco Park
Exhibitors include Ballet Folklorico Moncayo, Children’s Museum of Discovery and the U.S. Navy, plus major pharmaceutical companies like Bristol Myers Squibb and Genentech among others.
Business Organizations React To SCOTUS Ruling On Tariffs
Business organizations across the political spectrum from conservative to progressive are in general agreement with the Supreme Court ruling on Friday on tariffs.
ALFA Insurance teams with Sorrell College of Business to create a business innovation lab to spur student success and develop the next generation of business leaders
Alfa Insurance and Troy University’s Sorrell College of Business are teaming up to expand educational capabilities through the creation of the Alfa Insurance Business Innovation Lab in John Robert Lewis Hall.
New Leadership Team Set to Shape the Next Era of Assassin’s Creed
Today, Vantage Studios, a Ubisoft subsidiary, announced the appointment of three seasoned leaders who will play a pivotal role in driving the Assassin’s Creed brand’s long-term vision.
The challenge of the current generation of Black politicians
Black political power has reached a high point, with record numbers of Black members in the House and Senate, but Black voters are still asking what Black political power has done for them, as they…
With billions on the line, Chicago faces turning point on publicly funded stadiums
Chicago's professional sports teams have shaped its global identity for decades. Now they're at the heart of a rare, generational choice for local officials: Should taxpayers foot the bill?
The growing number of US scientists moving to Spain: ‘My colleagues are having a very hard time’
One in three recipients of the state-funded Atrae program comes from the United States
Android's Weather 'app' is going away, and what's left behind is disappointing
It is being replaced by generic web results.
Trump’s law is crushing the next generation of RFK Jr. disciples
Schools that educate medical contrarians like the health secretary are about to face a massive cut in federal funding.
Jacob Bridgeman reveals Tiger Woods’ message after winning Genesis Invitational
Jacob Bridgeman proudly revealed the conversation he had with Tiger Woods after winning The Genesis Invitational.
Chinese scientists engineer gene-edited tomato with popcorn aroma
By silencing two genes with CRISPR/Cas9 tool, Chinese team creates a tomato with a surprisingly sweet scent.
Call for Jersey politicians to prioritise future generations
Deputy says some current policy decisions are stacking up problems for the future.
iOS 26.3.1 Update for iPhones Coming Soon as 'Apple Experience' Nears
Apple's software engineers are testing iOS 26.3.1, according to the MacRumors visitor logs, which have been a reliable indicator of upcoming iOS versions. iOS 26.3.1 should be a minor update that fixes bugs and/or security vulnerabilities, and it will likely be released within the next two weeks. Last month, Apple released iOS 26.2.1 with bug fixes and support for the second-generation AirTag.
Scientists Find the Gene That Could Save the World’s Bananas
A wild banana’s hidden gene may help save the world’s favorite fruit from a relentless fungal threat.
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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