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US democracy has repaired itself before. Here’s how we can do it again.
Every 60 years, America remakes itself. We’re due.
🔎 Valencia look to Germany to strengthen their technical department
The Valencia CF continues to shape its sports organization for the upcoming season. As reported by Plaza Deportiva, the name of José Viñas is strongly featured on the list of candidates to join the ...
A Look At Corteva (CTVA) Valuation After Earnings Miss And Planned Business Separation
Why Corteva’s restructuring plans are in focus Corteva (CTVA) is back on investors’ radar after its recent earnings report, where revenue came in below expectations and management outlined plans to separate the Seed and Crop Chemicals businesses. At the same time, UBS and JPMorgan downgraded the stock, pointing to execution risks around the breakup and a more cautious outlook. This is helping shape how the market is reassessing Corteva’s story right now. See our latest analysis for...
Letters to the Editor - Primary voting, political mailers, UNT layoffs, peace, tariffs
Readers don’t like separate primary voting, call political brochures nonsense, aren’t happy about the layoffs at UNT, ask if the president truly wants peace...
Trumbull health district recognized on a national level
Trumbull County Combined Health District was one of 19 health departments across the country recognized for high standards and services.
Berrien Co. health officials warn about 'gas station heroin' as state considers ban
The Berrien County Health Department is issuing a warning about a highly addictive drug, sometimes known as "gas station herion."It is readily available right n
Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani Drawing Major Buzz Ahead of WBC
Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has left the team and their spring training preparation, departing for Team Japan and the World Baseball Classic.
Olympic star Jack Hughes earns huge ovation during NHL return
The 2026 Winter Olympics might be over, but Jack Hughes is still living his best life as he prepares for the final stretch of the NHL season. The New Jersey Devils standout returned to his NHL team Wednesday after visiting…
🚨 Mexico’s starting XI for the friendly against Iceland
Everything is ready in Querétaro for the Tricolor to continue its preparation journey towards the 2026 World Cup. The Mexican territory has been in the eye of the storm due to the violent events that...
ICE won’t be at polling places for midterms, Trump appointee tells state election officials
A Donald Trump appointee at the Department of Homeland Security told state election officials from around the country Wednesday that federal immigration agents won’t be deployed to polling places during the 2026 midterms, according to multiple sources on the call.
Rhode Island health officials report second blizzard-related death
Rhode Island Department of Health on Wednesday announced a second blizzard-related death after record-breaking snowfall.A DOH spokesperson said it was a shoveli
Entertainment This Week with Mike Marra
Airdate: February 25th, 2026 Willbee Transit Mix Previews HBAJ Home & Garden ShowFebruary 25, 2026Chamber Announces Women’s Week Panel Discussion BreakfastFebruary 25, 2026Henry Ford Wellness Wednesday: Cancer Screening with Tumor Board Director Donna Long, RNFebruary 25, 2026Jackson Fire Department Offering Free Smoke AlarmsFebruary 25, 2026Entertainment This Week with Mike MarraFebruary 25, 2026New Downtown Parking Plan…
Trump's pick to lead new Justice Department unit scrutinized as president declares 'war on fraud'
President Donald Trump's pick to lead a new Justice Department division dedicated to rooting out fraud said Wednesday he would pursue prosecutions “without fear or favor" as questions grow about how the new unit will operate free of political influence.
Meet the man Trump picked to pursue his war on fraud at the Justice Department
The morning after President Donald Trump declared a “war on fraud” during his State of the Union address, Senior Justice Department prosecutor Colin McDonald sat before the Senate Judiciary Committee and said he would steadfastly follow the department’s tradition to focus only on the evidence.
Mamdani appoints new Department of Social Services commissioner
Dalton will oversee the HRA and the DHS as the DSS commissioner.
Jayapal, Lawler Introduce Bipartisan Advance Global Health Act to Streamline State Department Data Reporting
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced the bipartisan Advance Global Health Act, a bill that consolidates many reports from the Department of State’s Bureau of Global Health Security and Diplomacy into one comprehensive, searchable annual report. Currently, the U.S. Department of State is required to produce multiple overlapping reports […]
Influential economist Larry Summers to depart Harvard over Epstein ties
Former Harvard President Summers quits after disclosures about his correspondence with Jeffrey Epstein.
FCC seeks public comment on live sports broadcasting marketplace
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is soliciting public comment on consumer experience with live sports viewing in the streaming era. As part of a notice posted on Wednesday, the departmen…
Trump's pick to lead new Justice Department unit scrutinized as president declares 'war on fraud'
President Donald Trump’s pick to lead a new Justice Department division dedicated to rooting out fraud says he would pursue prosecutions “without fear or favor,” amid growing questions about how the new unit will operate free of political pressure from a White House that has declared a “war on fraud.”
Strengthening Western Hemisphere Health Security Through the America First Global Health Strategy in Panama - United States Department of State
Today, the United States and the Republic of Panama signed a three-year bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that advances the America First Global Health Strategy while defending Americans against infectious disease threats and accelerating Panama’s progress toward sustainable, country-led health systems. This partnership between the United States and Panama is the first global […]
Kazakhstan plants tens of thousands of trees in giant effort to reintroduce tigers
Kazakhstan planted 37,000 seedlings and cuttings in South Balkhash last year to prepare for the return of its tigers, which disappeared more than 70 years ago.
Rabies vaccine recall prompts warning to pet owners from Allegheny County Health Department
US, Burkina Faso sign health cooperation memo
The United States and Burkina Faso signed a five-year bilateral health cooperation memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening regional health security and improving the African nation's ability to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, the U.S. State Department said on Wednesday.
Morehead State alum inducted into Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame
A Morehead State University alum who went on to soar in sports broadcasting has received one of the field's highest honors. Marc Herklotz (Class of 1981) was inducted into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame in December 2025. Herklotz worked on the technical side of broadcasting for over 30 years and had a special interest in sports broadcasting. Under ESPN's umbrella of sporting events, Herklotz worked directly with Sunday Night Baseball and Football, Monday Night Football and Home Run Derbies. For more information about Herklotz's career and the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame, visit their website. To learn more about the Department of Communication, Media, Art & Design programs, please email cmad@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2766.
Fortifying Health Systems and Countering Infectious Disease Threats Through the America First Global Health Strategy in Burkina Faso - United States Department of State
Today, the United States and Burkina Faso signed a five-year bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that reinforces regional health security in the Sahel while advancing Burkina Faso’s capacity to independently manage infectious disease threats before they reach our shores. This MOU reflects the Trump Administration’s commitment to protecting American health security while building […]
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.
'Extraordinary' Constitution Hill to pursue career on Flat
Constitution Hill will prepare for "the next chapter" in Flat racing after being ruled out of this year's Champion Hurdle and any further races over jumps.
Repeal of EPA 'endangerment finding' endangers human health
Climate change is happening, it is human-caused and it is damaging human health, two doctors write.
The Next Gen Of Scientists Can’t Save The World If We Don’t Train Them
NASA’s Artemis missions highlight a bigger challenge: Are U.S. schools preparing students with the scientific thinking skills needed for an AI-driven future?
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.
Is Jamal Murray playing tonight? Nuggets vs. Celtics injury report
Jamal Murray is one again named on the official injury list as the Nuggets prepare to take on the Boston Celtics.
Water supplies in rural Nepal could be cleaned by harnessing the power of the sun, scientists claim
A new method for cleaning household water supplies in rural communities in Nepal is being developed by an international team of scientists. The solution removes harmful bacteria from the water by inserting ...
Will team owner greed prevail over the public good in Ohio sports facility financing? Editorial
At a minimum, any publicly funded gilding of the Guardians’ and Cavs’ resources for facility upgrades should be paired with a required renegotiating of the facility leases to take local taxpayers off the hook for any further obligation to pay for repairs and upgrades, writes the editorial board of The Plain Dealer and cleveland.com.
Allegheny Co. Health Department warns pet parents about rabies vaccine recall
MSU’s Science Night at the Museums offers family-friendly displays of science
Families milled about in front of Hilbun Hall and the Cobb Institute of Archeology at 4 p.m. Saturday, officially beginning the Science Night at the Museums event at Mississippi State University. Various departments at MSU displayed their crafts and experiments, spread across the three floors of Hilbun Hall and across the street at the Cobb...
California's Congress members' plans for Trump's State of the Union address
California has the nation's largest congressional delegation, so its elected officials frequently have an outsized presence in the nation's capital.
68% of Americans Say Trump Has the Wrong Priorities
As Mr. Trump prepares for his State of the Union address, polls show that most Americans say he isn’t paying enough attention to the country’s biggest problems.
Senate Democrats Again Block D.H.S. Funding, Demanding Enforcement Curbs
Democrats refused to allow a bill to reopen the Department of Homeland Security to move ahead without new restrictions on federal agents carrying out President Trump’s immigration enforcement drive.
Exclusive: Talking to new Xbox CEO Asha Sharma and CCO Matt Booty — "This team has brought it back before, and I'm here to help us do it again."
As former Xbox CEO Phil Spencer prepares to exit, we caught up with incoming CEO Asha Sharma and newly promoted CCO Matt Booty to learn about what the future holds for Microsoft's gaming operation.
[CROI 2026] aidsmap: The war on science: resisting and rebuilding at a crucial juncture
“We all knew Trump’s second term would be worse than his first. But few of us were prepared for the level of destruction – and the speed of it...”
Rabid raccoon confirmed in Churchville, Harford Co. Health Department says
The Harford County Health Department announced that a raccoon in Churchville tested positive for the rabies virus on Tuesday.Officials reported that the raccoon
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.
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…
South Dakota Department of Health releases new fish consumption advisories
The South Dakota Department of Health, alongside the Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources and Game, Fish & Parks, has finished its annual fish sampling program to assess fish consumption safety in state waters.
EPA mercury rollback raises health and transparency concerns in North Carolina
The Environmental Protection Agency's mercury rollback is raising health and transparency concerns in North Carolina.
Galaxy S25 Ultra outsold its predecessor, leaves Galaxy S26 Ultra big shoes to fill
As Samsung prepares to announce the new Galaxy S26 series, recent sales data shows that the Galaxy S25 Ultra significantly...
Spears Business assistant professor Dinkel wins research awards for legal ethics papers
Dr. Christopher Dinkel, an assistant professor of legal studies in OSU’s Spears School of Business Department of Management, recently won regional and international awards for his legal ethics research. His findings have significant implications for both attorneys and business scholars.
COB Initiative Helps Business Owners Protect Their Legacy
The College of Business is launching a new research initiative to explore The Owner’s Dilemma — how business owners prepare for succession, transition or sale.
Democrats Counter Trump With Their Own Version of a Wall Street Landlords Ban
As the president prepares to deliver a State of the Union address likely to touch on his own plan, Senate Democrats introduced a bill with their own vision for limiting investors’ purchases of single-family homes.
First lady Melania and Donald Trump bringing separate guests to SOTU in break with precedent
First lady Melania Trump will bring guests to the State of the Union address representing her foster care and responsible AI platforms while President Donald Trump has invited his own set of guests – a move that marks a break from precedent.
Hepatitis B vaccine rates are dropping
After a period of growth, the percentage of newborns being vaccinated against hepatitis B has seen significant declines in the last couple years, research finds
Clemson Data Science Students Help Ohio Energy Company Tackle Environmental Risk and Workforce Gaps
The need aligned with the applied learning mission of Clemson’s M.S. DSA program. The program, housed in the Department of Management within the Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business, is an online degree developed cooperatively by Clemson’s School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences and Department of Management.
Lubin School of Business Homepage
Explore the Lubin School of Business at Pace University, a nationally ranked, AACSB‑accredited business school offering undergraduate to doctoral programs.
Raymond James double upgrades this auto parts distribution ahead of planned business separation
Raymond James sees shares of Genuine Parts Company rallying 25% from here.
"Microsoft wants a turnaround and is worried about losing Xbox" - Insider report paints a different picture of Phil Spencer's retirement and Sarah Bond's sudden departure
Could this be a genuine reset and potential comeback?
Nick Sirianni explains his side of the Jeff Stoutland departure
Speaking for the first time publicly since just after the 2025 season, Nick Sirianni explains why legendary OL coach Jeff Stoutland departed.
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.
Pentagon Races to Spend $153 Billion in Added Funds for Military
The Trump administration for months ignored Congress’s demand for a plan on how the Defense Department would spend the money that Republicans pushed through in their sweeping domestic policy bill.
FedEx sues Trump administration for full tariff refunds after Supreme Court ruling on IEEPA
FedEx sues U.S. government for tariff refunds after Supreme Court ruled Trump's emergency trade duties on imports were unlawful.
Apple’s new ‘Sales Coach’ app is now live on the App Store
Following last week’s report that Apple was preparing to replace its “SEED” app with “Sales Coach,” the new app is now available.
Understanding human behaviour for pandemic preparedness with epigames
Nature Health - Understanding human behaviour for pandemic preparedness with epigames
Broome County Health Department continues to examine increase in stomach infection cases
According to medical director Lazarus Gehring, the outbreak appears to be local to Broome County unlike the majority of the typically observed cases.
What to expect at Tuesday's State of the Union speech
Trump's speech Tuesday night will come amid tariff confusion and a Department of Homeland Security funding fight
‘A Long Speech’: Trump Prepares for State of the Union
President Trump does not like to practice reading the speech out loud, but he spent time mimicking the setup of the House chamber, officials familiar with his plans said.
Pentagon Flags Risks of a Major Operation Against Iran
The warnings have been led by Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, within the Defense Department and during meetings of the National Security Council.
Democrats demanding ICE reforms lose airport escorts in shutdown they triggered
The government shutdown hit TSA operations as the Department of Homeland Security activated emergency measures and suspended congressional escorts while keeping PreCheck operational.
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...
Significant component of Leaving Certificate science exams risks student safety, report finds
Department of Education advised to pause AAC implementation immediately on health and safety grounds
Trump admin discussing sale of $1.7T federal student-loan portfolio
Critics worry about what forgiveness and repayment options borrowers may have if federal student loans are sold to private lenders.
CDC Leadership Disarray Deepens as Second-in-Command Departs
Leadership turmoil at the top US public health agency intensified Monday, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s second-in-command stepped down less than a week after its third new director in the past year took the helm.
McClaren Institute for Health and Quality of Life prepares for reopening by summer 2026
The McClaren Institute for Health and Quality of Life honors the life and legacy of Dr. Edward E. McClaren.
CDC deputy director abruptly departs agency
Dr. Ralph Abraham has stepped down as principal deputy director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the agency said Monday.
Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto pitching preparation takes different forms
Before the Dodgers played the Padres on Sunday in Peoria, morning work at Camelback Ranch included both Shohei Ohtani and Edwin Díaz pitching to hitters. Ohtani did not make the trip to play in Peoria and be the designated hitter in part because he pitched two simulated innings against Dodgers hitters in his final day […]
Scientists reverse muscle aging in mice and discover a surprising catch
A UCLA study in mice reveals that aging muscle stem cells accumulate a protein that slows repair but boosts survival. This protein, NDRG1, acts like a brake, preventing cells from activating quickly after injury. When researchers blocked it in older mice, muscle healing sped up dramatically — but stem cells became less resilient over time. The work suggests aging may reflect a survival trade-off rather than straightforward decline.
Two Argonne scientists receive 2025 DOE Early Career Research Awards
Two Argonne scientists, David Kaphan and Yong Zhao, have been named to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Early Career Research Program for separate projects in catalysis and nuclear physics.
Merck to create separate cancer business to offset Keytruda patent loss
Merck said on Monday it will split its human-health business into two divisions, separating its cancer franchise from its non-oncology medicines.
Merck to create separate cancer business to offset Keytruda patent loss, WSJ reports
Drugmaker Merck is separating its human-health business into two divisions to offset pressures related to the patent loss of its top-selling drug Keytruda, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday.
Virginia health department defies Trump vaccine changes
State officials say the federal shift on childhood vaccines wasn't backed by evidence.
Robin Vos looks back his tenure as Wisconsin's longest serving speaker
As Wisconsin's longest-serving Assembly speaker prepares to step away, his advice to lawmakers moving forward revolves around common ground.
Exclusive | Merck Creates Separate Cancer Business as Sales Pressure Looms
The drugmaker is splitting its pharmaceuticals unit to bolster product launches before a crucial patent loss.
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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