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New image reveals secrets of Milky Way galaxy in stunning detail
Largest ever image obtained by specialist telescope in Chile represents scientific and aesthetic breakthrough
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.
Clinton Halts Epstein Deposition After Republican Leaks Photo of Her Testifying
Hillary Clinton, the former secretary of state, had requested a public hearing if she was going to be forced to testify in the House Oversight Committee’s investigation, but the G.O.P. chairman had refused.
Hillary Clinton accuses Oversight Republicans of ‘political theater’ in opening statement - Live Updates
The former secretary of State said Republicans are “fully aware” that she has no knowledge that would assist their investigation into Jeffrey Epstein.
Republicans to Press Hillary Clinton in Epstein Probe
The former first lady and secretary of state sits for a deposition with GOP-led panel following a monthslong legal fight with Congress.
Hillary Clinton faces off with House lawmakers in Epstein probe
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is currently facing off with the House Oversight Committee in a closed-door interview as part of the panel’s investigation into the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Woman suing Meta, YouTube over social media addiction expected to take stand at trial
A California woman is expected to testify in court on Thursday about how using Meta Platforms' Instagram and Google's YouTube as a child harmed her mental health, as her landmark trial in Los Angeles continues.
Resident Evil Requiem Nintendo Switch 2 tech analysis, including frame rate and resolution
New details have been released about the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Resident Evil Requiem including frame rate and resolution.
EG Group agrees sale of French business to EG On The Move
Under the arrangement, EG On The Move had entered a put option to acquire around 260 sites in France.
‘Untamed’ Season 2 Details: Who’s Joining Eric Bana for New Mystery?
Mystery thriller moves to Hawai'i for Season 2.
Green hydrogen has a hidden problem and scientists may have fixed it
Green hydrogen could be a game-changer for the clean energy transition—but right now, it’s too expensive and still relies on harmful “forever chemicals.” A new EU-backed project called SUPREME aims to fix that by reinventing how hydrogen is made. Led by the University of Southern Denmark with partners across Europe, researchers are developing a PFAS-free electrolysis system that slashes the use of rare metals like iridium and dramatically cuts costs.
TD Beats Estimates on Strong Results Across Its Business Lines
Toronto-Dominion Bank topped estimates on better-than-expected results in both its US and domestic retail divisions as well as its markets-related businesses.
Ayotte pitched tax credits for businesses with child care. Here’s how it’s going in the Legislature.
In her State of the State speech, New Hampshire Gov. Kelly Ayotte called the rising cost of child care a “downward pressure” on families. Her solution: giving businesses tax credits so they can create their own.
Immigration Enforcement’s Twin Threats to Health Care
Patients are afraid to show up to medical appointments, while workers are being detained, deported or losing their visa statuses.
Sausalito looking for business to fill vacancies on Bridgeway
The city of Sausalito, deeply concerned about maintaining its world-class tourist image and warding off sea level rise, is planning to lure bigger retailers and restaurants without making it like every other place.
Mesa sports grill, Scottsdale Chinese restaurant cited by health inspectors
Health inspectors found employees not washing up and vegetables stored in to-go bags at several Valley restaurants in this week's Dirty Dining report.
Mesa sports grill, Scottsdale Chinese restaurant cited by health inspectors
Health inspectors found employees not washing up and vegetables stored in to-go bags at several Valley restaurants in this week's Dirty Dining report.
Health inspectors cite Mesa sports bar, Scottsdale Chinese restaurant
Health inspectors found employees not washing up and vegetables stored in to-go bags at several Valley restaurants in this week's Dirty Dining report.
Google details MCP-like ‘AppFunctions’ that let Gemini use Android apps
Following the Gemini automation announcement today, Google is detailing how all this works under the hood on Android.
Readers Write: ICE detaining children, voter ID, politics and the Olympics, Boundary Waters mining
We cannot support such evil.
Motorola teases ‘every detail’ about Razr Fold is coming next week
Motorola has done well with its flip phone Razr series in recent years, but the company revealed at CES 2026...
Caring for Denver changes alcohol policy following audit
A city auditor report recently criticized its spending and grant oversight.
Urban Outfitters’ Rental Business Beats Its Sales Target
The retailer’s Nuuly clothing-rental service also saw big gains in subscribers.
Hide from Meta's spyglasses with this new Android app
: Academic urges users not to harass those suspected of snooping with (sp)eyewear
49ers detail importance of mental health resources after Rondale Moore tragedy
49ers GM John Lynch emphasized the importance of San Francisco's mental health resources after the tragic passing of NFL receiver Rondale Moore.
Compromises for affordability ahead: Code leak spills details on new MacBook
Nobody claimed it was going to be equivalent to a MacBook Pro or even a MacBook Air. A code leak details the budget MacBook having an A18 Pro chip, limits on charging, no True Tone, and more.
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.
After stints at Nike and Kohl’s, Elevance Health’s CDIO pivots to using tech to bring more ‘delight’ to healthcare
Ratnakar Lavu spent most of his career working at major retailers. Here's why Lavu thinks his experience can bring 'delight' to the healthcare sector.
China's $112 billion cargo gap shows record U.S. tariff evasion
Business owners, shipping merchants, trade attorneys and former customs officials are sounding the alarm over a surge in apparent tariff fraud.
Leaker Says Apple's Lower-Cost MacBook Will Have These 8 Limitations
Apple is expected to unveil its long-rumored lower-cost MacBook next week. Given it will be more affordable, this MacBook model will obviously have some reduced specs and compromises compared to the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro. While we are still waiting for Apple to announce the new MacBook, a leaker has shared eight alleged limitations to expect, based on an internal version of Apple's Kernel Debug Kit for a macOS Tahoe beta that leaked online last year.
John Lewis pulls out of housebuilding business
The retailer began expanding into housebuilding in 2020 but it is scrapping those plans to focus on retail instead.
Motorola launches Android 17 beta program, here are the eligible devices
This comes very soon after Google's release of the first Android 17 beta. Google released the first beta of Android 17 for its Pixel devices earlier this...
Ninja Gaiden 4: The Two Masters DLC Arrives on March 4 - New Weapons, New Enemies, and New Challenges
We’re excited to announce that The Two Masters DLC for Ninja Gaiden 4 will be released on March 4, 2026 - find out all the details inside.
New NFIB Survey Shows Rise in Industry-Specific Small Business Optimism
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 25, 2026) – The NFIB Research Center released an industry-specific quarterly Small Business Economic Trends survey highlighting the construction, manufacturing, retail, and services industries. According to the report, the Optimism Index increased from the previous quarter for
Here’s Resident Evil Requiem’s Metacritic Score As Reviews Go Live
The metacritic score for Resident Evil Requiem is in, and it will likely please fans hoping for a hit. You can play tomorrow.
This Georgia politician was State of the Union's designated survivor
Doug Collins, a politician from Georgia and the U.S. Cabinet VA Secretary served as the designated survivor for the State of the Union.
More Lower-Cost MacBook Details Surface Ahead of 'Apple Experience' Next Week
Apple is expected to unveil up to five new products next week, including a lower-cost MacBook, and a few more details about the laptop surfaced today. According to supply chain sources who spoke to DigiTimes, the entry-level MacBook will indeed be launching in March. The report said volume shipments of the laptop to Apple are projected to begin next month. Quanta Computer is expected to be the primary assembler of this new model, and Foxconn is expected to join in later.
NASA’s Webb Examines Cranium Nebula
Two heads are better than one in the latest images from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, which reveal new detail in a mysterious, little-studied nebula
Google Messages Details page brings back edit history
After losing with the broader Material 3 Expressive redesign, Google Messages Details page has regained edit history.
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...
2 downtown retailers receive small-business enhancement grants
Two downtown Sioux Falls retailers are recipients of small-business grants to help grow their stores.
Britain's John Lewis Partnership to withdraw from build to rent business
British retailer the John Lewis Partnership said on Wednesday it is withdrawing from its Build to Rent property business, blaming a "fundamental shift" in the economic conditions that underpinned the venture when it launched in 2020.
‘We melt it down’: As gold hits record highs, business has never been so good for San Diego precious metals merchants
It is a boom time for bullion, as people dig through jewelry boxes and coin collections to turn metal into cash. Instead of reselling those items, many businesses will convert them into gold and si…
US tariff rate to hit 15% or more for some nations, USTR says
The U.S. tariff rate for some countries will go up to 15% or higher from the newly-imposed 10%, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said on Wednesday, without naming any specific trading partners or other details.
'A place of extremes': Scientists unveil the largest-ever map of the galaxy's chaotic center
Scientists using the ALMA telescope have created the most-detailed-ever map of the Milky Way's chaotic center. The observations could open a window to the ancient universe as it appeared shortly after the Big Bang.
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…
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.
The Transatlantic Defense Business Politics Can’t Break
The foundations of the Atlantic alliance are shifting in ways not seen since the early days of the Cold War. Washington is no longer simply urging greater
The Transatlantic Defense Business Politics Can’t Break
The foundations of the Atlantic alliance are shifting in ways not seen since the early days of the Cold War. Washington is no longer simply urging greater
Rubio Was Looking at His Phone After Trump Praised Him in State of the Union Speech
Shortly after Secretary of State Marco Rubio was singled out for praise, a New York Times photographer captured him reading messages from Mr. Trump’s special envoy to Venezuela.
New Lakers business president says team will retain Rob Pelinka, with Magic Johnson and top Dodgers execs involved
New Lakers business president says team will retain Rob Pelinka, with Magic Johnson and top Dodgers execs involved
Someone Remotely Accessed the Cameras in 7,000 DJI Robot Vacuums
Maybe all these cameras inside homes aren't such a good idea, after all.
Michigan House committee hears testimony alleging mold, drugs, lack of health care at women’s prison
Lawmakers heard alarming testimony Tuesday detailing years of alleged neglect, toxic mold, illegal drugs, and inadequate health care at Michigan’s only women’s prison, prompting calls for oversight and policy changes.
Douglas County adopts ordinance to address retail theft and support local businesses
Following extensive community and business input, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners has adopted an ordinance designed to improve reporting, strengthen enforcement and protect local businesses from retail theft. The…
2 charged for stealing $21,500 worth of metal products from Del. businesses
Two men were charged in connection to a string of thefts where they are accused of stealing $21,500 worth of metal materials from Delaware businesses.
New M6 MacBook Pro details revealed, including Dynamic Island, touch, more
Apple has its first touchscreen-equipped Mac coming later this year: the M6 MacBook Pro. A new report offers fresh details on what to expect.
Would you eat fruits and vegetables with a doctor’s prescription?
“These health issues are linked to what type of food we choose, with 80 to 90% of folks that don’t meet recommended dietary guidelines for fruit and vegetable consumption,” Song writes.…
Etan Frankel Strikes First-Look Deal With Fox Entertainment Studios
The writer-producer, who also created and showran Peacock’s ‘Joe vs. Carole,’ will focus on premium series, genre storytelling and creator-led projects at the studio.
9 Foods With the Most Flavonoids for Heart and Brain Health
Flavonoids are plant compounds with powerful health benefits. Eat more of these colorful fruits and vegetables to increase your intake.
Etan Frankel Inks First-Look Producing Deal With Fox Entertainment Studios
Writer and producer Etan Frankel has inked a first-look producing deal with Fox Entertainment Studios to develop and produce premium scripted series.
Etan Frankel Signs First-Look Producing Deal With Fox Entertainment
'Joe vs. Carole' creator Etan Frankel has signed a first-look producing deal with Fox Entertainment Studios.
Etan Frankel Inks First-Look Producing Deal With Fox Entertainment
The "Shameless" and "Sorry For Your Loss" EP will produce scripted series across genres, including premium dramas and creator-driven series.
Etan Frankel Inks First-Look Producing Deal With Fox Entertainment Studios
Writer and producer Etan Frankel (Joe vs. Carole, Sorry for Your Loss) is getting into business with Fox Entertainment Studios. Frankel has inked a first-look producing deal with the studio to develop...
AWS Debuts AI Vertical-Conversion Tools To Automate Live Sports Clips
AWS launches Elemental Inference tools to automate finding, clipping, adding meta data and distributing vertical video highlights from live sports events.
Google Messages more widely rolling out circular read receipts redesign
In August of 2024, Google Messages started testing a circular redesign of read receipts. There now looks to be wide beta availability...
Oura launches a proprietary AI model focused on women's health
The model supports questions spanning the full reproductive health spectrum, from early menstrual cycles through menopause.
Oura launches a proprietary AI model focused on women's health
The model supports questions spanning the full reproductive health spectrum, from early menstrual cycles through menopause.
Glenview slows plans to turn downtown into entertainment district, ban service businesses
Glenview slows plans to turn downtown into an entertainment district, ban service and retail businesses, including doctors.
Meta's Addiction Trial Could Predict Problems for Sports Gambling
If social media is found to be addictive in a way that violates the law, will the same finding be made with sports betting? Sportico investigates.
Meta and AMD agree to blockbuster chip deal
Meta has agreed to buy 6 gigawatts' worth of AMD's artificial intelligence chips, the companies said on Tuesday.
The Nothing Phone 4a fixes my two biggest problems with the Nothing Phone 3
It might not look as unique, but I think Nothing's Phone 4a will be much more pocketable than its premium predecessor.
Can trash be good for the environment? The science of artificial reefs
Helicopters. Cargo containers. Old washing machines. For years, fishermen dumped this waste into the Gulf of Mexico. But they weren’t just trying to get rid of junk; they were trying to create artificial reefs that would help attract fish. For this month’s Nature Quest, WWNO coastal reporter Eva Tesfaye takes a (metaphorical) dive into the gulf to find out if Alabama’s ocean junkyard is an economic – and environmental – solution.This episode is part of Nature Quest, our monthly segment that brings you a question from a Short Waver who is noticing a change in the world around them.Send a voice memo to shortwave@npr.org telling us your name, location and a question about a change you're seeing in nature – it could be our next Nature Quest episode!Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.
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.
A Meta AI security researcher said an OpenClaw agent ran amok on her inbox
The viral X post from an AI security researcher reads like satire. But it's really a word of warning about what can go wrong when handing tasks to an AI agent.
Adolescent Social Health May Foretell Loneliness, Aggressive Behavior, Study Suggests
Teens who are lonely and those who experience conflict in their home life are more likely to act aggressively toward peers or become victims themselves. These are some of the findings in a new University of California, Davis, study that creates a detailed picture of children’s social lives by identifying patterns and predictors of adolescent social health.
iOS 26.4 beta 2: Here's what's new
One week after the release of the first beta, iOS 26.4 beta 2 is now available. The update continues to...
WhatsApp is finally working on scheduled messages
Meta is at last bringing scheduled messages to WhatsApp, delivering on one of the app’s most-requested features.
Meta employee shares OpenClaw email-deletion nightmare
Meta alignment director Summer Yue hooked OpenClaw up to her inbox. Then, the bot tried to delete her emails. Yue chalked it up to a "rookie mistake."
Farage kicks things off before 30 minutes of hate – and has the final word
Reform’s ‘shadow home secretary’, Zia Yusuf, launches tirade of misery that sounded more hardline and deranged as it went
Citi nears Banamex stake sale to investor group including Blackstone, Bloomberg News reports
Citigroup is nearing a deal to sell a 24% stake in its Mexican retail bank Grupo Financiero Banamex to a group of investors that includes Blackstone , Bloomberg News reported on Monday, citing people familiar with the matter.
Trump's science and tech man lays out White House's global AI strategy
Exclusive interview reveals White House AI strategy: Michael Kratsios details new export program targeting developing countries with tech support.
Women's college volleyball teams head to Bahamas for historic showcase
USA TODAY has the exclusive details on four college volleyball teams, including Kentucky and Purdue, competing in a new showcase in the Bahamas.
Meta Director of AI Safety Allows AI Agent to Accidentally Delete Her Inbox
Meta Superintelligence Labs’ director of alignment called it a “rookie mistake.”
Heart Health Fair
This week, we’re hosting our Heart Health Fair, providing free health education and screenings! Make sure to catch Kelli Watson, our Community Outreach Nurse and Health Educator, as she discusses event details with WHSV-TV3’s Mike Staley. https://www.whsv.com/video/2026/02/11/now-3-heart-health-fair/
No evidence behind RFK Jr’s claim keto diet can cure schizophrenia, experts say
Health secretary likely referred to Harvard psychiatrist who says he’s ‘never used the word cure in my work’
Former Secret Service agent details disturbing rise of political violence after Mar-a-Lago shooting
Former Secret Service agent Tim Miller discusses the Mar-a-Lago shooting incident, the increase in threats against President Donald Trump and the disturbing rise of political violence in America.
‘Inside the Situation Room’ Bridges the Gap Between Politics and Academia
Columbia SIPA Dean Keren Yarhi-Milo and Secretary Hillary Clinton co-edited a book that brings readers into the room where leaders make decisions in times of crisis.
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.
Democrats decry meager medical care for detainees in funding fight
Fernando Viera Reyes needed a biopsy for possible prostate cancer when the Trump administration sent him to an immigration detention center in California’s Mojave Desert.
Shields beats Crews-Dezurn to retain title
Claressa Shields defends her undisputed heavyweight crown by beating fellow American Franchon Crews-Dezurn by unanimous points decision in Detroit.
Can Ssense 2.0 Work?
Ssense’s founders got buyout approval. What will the retailer’s next phase look like — and can they build back brand and consumer trust?
Budget, housing, business development: Concord City Council sets its priorities
Responsible monetary decisions. Clear and widely disseminated communication with the public, especially on the city’s finances and taxes. Helping people keep their homes and find new ones. Regulatory and cultural changes to make it easier for businesses and development, and investments in the roads, sewers and other infrastructure to support them. These pursuits are what […]
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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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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