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Placer County-sponsored resolution aims to provide support for farmers' mental health
Vegan diets linked to colon cancer in large new study: what to know
A new study suggests vegan diets may be lacking some nutrients that help shield people from colon cancer. Fortification could help.
Another Clackamas County location labeled measles exposure site
Oregon health officials identified another place in Clackamas County where people may have been exposed to measles.The Oregon Health Authority and Clackamas Cou
Caesars considering takeover offers, according to report
The Financial Times is reporting that Caesars Entertainment, which merged with Eldorado Resorts in 2020, is considering takeover offers.
'Made in Baltimore' store shines light on Black-owned businesses
In honor of Black History Month, the Baltimore Development Corp. is supporting Black-owned businesses at its "Made in Baltimore" store at the Inner Harbor.
Junior college football in Alabama? ‘I would like to see it,’ State Rep. Chris Blackshear says
Newly formed committee will provide feasibility report by Nov. 1
Family Businesses Face Major Leadership Shakeups—But Most Still Lack Succession Plans
Less than a third of those posts are likely to be filled by relatives of the outgoing CEO.
The Strong Leader's Guide to Scaling Without Breaking Your Company
A practical framework for founders and business leaders to scale smarter by combining freemium access, marketplace participation and partner ecosystems into a cohesive growth model.
The End of Language As We Know It? Scientists Challenge 60 Years of Linguistic Research
An international team proposes replacing Hockett’s feature checklist with a model of language as a dynamic, multimodal, and socially evolving system.
Florida's first Black-owned brewery now open for business
Florida's first Black-owned brewery is now open for business, with its name coming from a symbol of segregation. NBC News' Priscilla Thompson explains how the brewery's owner believes this symbol will help the community heal.
Former SVSU educator to discuss women in science at Saginaw event
The free talk, titled “Science, Women of Science, and Women in Science,” takes place Wednesday, March 4, at 6:30 p.m.
Google releases Nano Banana 2 AI image generator, promises Pro results with Flash speed
Google's new image model replaces the previous versions immediately.
The Insightful Leader Live: Can Business Negotiation Strategies Work with Friends and Family?
Negotiation skills are essential for your career, whether in asking for a raise or brokering a deal. But they’re not just useful in the workplace. Effective negotiation strategies can also be applied ...
Conference League | Fiorentina vs Jagiellonia Bialystok
Fiorentina welcome Polish side Jagiellonia Bialystok to the Stadio Artemio Franchi this evening, as the Viola look to book their place in the last 16 of the UEFA Conference League.The Viola won the fi...
DHS official promises that federal immigration agents won't be at polling places during midterm elections
A Department of Homeland Security official on Wednesday told state election administrators that immigration agents will not be stationed at the polls during November's midterm elections, trying to swat down one of Democrats' greatest fears about possible election interference from the Trump administration.
Mistakes I made getting floors replaced: Spent $12,000; have regrets
We thought replacing our carpets with vinyl-plank flooring would be easy and cost $6,000. We spent more than double that and uncovered so many issues.
Readers respond: Give Lloyd Center a destination sports complex
Letters to the Editor can be submitted to letters@oregonian.com with full name and place of residence.
Corbyn to be Your Party parliamentary leader as Sultana joins leadership committee
Former Labour leader says time for ‘real work’ to begin as his candidates take 14 of 24 available places on executive committee
Game Preview: New Jersey Devils @ Pittsburgh Penguins 2/26/2026
Who: New Jersey Devils (28-28-2, 58 points, 7th place Metropolitan Division) @ Pittsburgh Penguins (29-15-12, 70 points, 2nd place Metropolitan Division) When: 7:00 p.m. eastern How to Watch: Locally broadcast on Sportsnet Pittsburgh and MSG, streaming on ESPN+ Pens’ Path Ahead: Well, hopefully everyone enjoyed the time off because the schedule goes bonkers from here. This is […]
Hillary Clinton to testify in House Oversight Committee’s Epstein investigation
Deposition will be filmed but take place behind closed doors, with former president Bill Clinton scheduled to answer questions tomorrow
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.
The 'Great Wealth Transfer': A $3 trillion opportunity for Black business owners is on the horizon
Researchers forecast 6 million small- and medium-sized businesses, or SMBs, will be available for acquisition by 2035.
Top high school performers in Oshkosh, Fond du Lac from Feb. 16-22
See who the top high school performers were in the Oshkosh and Fond du Lac area from Feb. 16 - Feb. 22.
Live updates of New York girls freestyle wrestling championships
The New York State girls freestyle wrestling tournament hosted by NYSPHSAA takes place Feb. 26 at MVP Arena in Albany
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.
DHS official promises that federal immigration agents won't be at polling places during the midterms
A DHS official is promising top state election administrators that immigration agents will not be at polling places during November’s midterm election
Predators out to extend recent dominance over Blackhawks
A date with the Chicago Blackhawks is an opportune spot for the Nashville Predators to make headway on their playoff push.
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.
She showed warnings of a failing behavioral health system in rural AZ. Her crisis turned deadly.
"She was failed by the system as much as society was." As Angela Bouck crossed the center line in a fatal 2025 crash, her history of bipolar disorder & lack of a mental competency evaluation reveals a breakdown in Arizona’s behavioral healthcare system.
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.
Things to do this weekend in Metro Detroit
Black History Month events, theater, concerts and more on deck around town this weekend, Feb. 27-March 1.
Entertainment Highlights: Film festival aims to offer ‘something for everyone’
WHITE RIVER JUNCTION — For just over two decades, the annual White River Indie Film Festival has served as a gathering place to catch the latest independent projects from Upper Valley filmmakers and those working farther afield. In recent iterations of WRiF, programming has swelled to include not just movies but other art forms and […]
Startup founder shares where to leverage AI, and what it can't replace
Tim Desoto built a shopping startup using AI, despite no tech background. He shares where AI helped him — and where human perspective still matters.
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…
Melvin Robert Shines in KTLA Spotlight as Morning News Entertainment Anchor
Ever since Melvin Robert joined KTLA’s “Morning Show,” he has lit up the show with an incandescent smile and effervescent charm as he delivers entertainment hot topics. The Inglewood native replaced Sam Rubin last year when the iconic news personality suddenly died.
How two churches forged Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico’s politics
In the Senate Democratic primary, Talarico has made his church’s ethos of compassion central to his campaign, while Jasmine Crockett is tapping into the civic power of Black churches.
Lidl falls through at Railyard at Lambert’s Point, Norfolk businesses create association to boost growth
Railyard at Lambert’s Point in Norfolk still lacks an anchor tenant — “the biggest missing gap,” Dana Whitaker said — but growth continues.
Hartford HealthCare committed to advancing health equity in Connecticut
HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — In honor of Black History Month, Hartford HealthCare is highlighting its ongoing commitment to advancing health equity across Connecticut. Elisabeth Michel, director …
'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.
Sports betting comes to Minnesota via prediction markets
Some Minnesota lawmakers want to regulate or ban prediction markets.
Despite likening new Xbox head's job to a "palliative care doctor", original co-creator doesn't actually think Xbox is dead
Seamus Blackley, one of the co-creators of the original Xbox, has assured the community he doesn't actually think Xbox is "dead".
The South’s ‘mecca of Black entertainment’ celebrates 105 years
A cultural hub for Black entertainment celebrates 105 years in Macon.
Irv Cross pioneered a sports media trend that remains popular to this day
The former Eagles Pro Bowl cornerback made history on The NFL Today in 1975 as the first Black co-host of a network sports show.
How UGA political science spaces combat polarization
While national headlines warn of worsening political polarization, University of Georgia students and faculty say their classrooms feel thoughtful, not broken.
Notre Dame Men’s Lacrosse Dominates Georgetown 15-9
Unless you were at the Loftus Center on Sunday, you were not able to see the Notre Dame Men’s Lacrosse team defeat Georgetown by a final score of 15-9. It was the rare occurrence where a top 10 matchup was nowhere to be found on any sort of TV or streaming platform. That’s rough and […]
Al Green kicked out of State of the Union after holding sign protesting Trump
The Texas Democrat held a sign that read “BLACK PEOPLE ARE NOT APES!” It’s a reference to a video Trump shared on social media this month that depicted Barack and Michelle Obama as apes.
2026 Pensacola Sports banquet honors hometown athletes, from amateurs to Olympians
PENSACOLA, Fla. -- The Pensacola Sports 70th annual awards banquet took place at the Brownsville Community Center Tuesday night.
Rep. Al Green ejected from Trump's State of the Union after holding a 'Black people aren't apes' sign
Green, a Democrat from Texas, was also removed last year after disrupting Trump's joint address to Congress.
Tyler Black leads Brewers rout in first Spring Training win
Tyler Black had 6 RBIs as Brewers get 10-0 win over Athletics
Clinic aims to prioritize health for Black and brown men in Madison
MADISON, Wis. — Aaron Perry has a simple but ambitious goal: getting men to prioritize their health.
Rhodes Business Students Triumph in Investment Research Competition
Rhodes College students Cole McNair ’26, John Mori ’26, Jason Rubinstein ’27, Graham Allen ’26, and Ismail Malik ’26 secured first place at the Mid-South competition of the Chartered Financial Analysts Institute Research Challenge held Feb. 21 in Memphis.
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.
Why did AI ‘science fiction’ spur market panic? We asked a behavioral-finance expert to find out.
Amid high AI valuations and fears of software displacement, a blog post from Citrini Research ignited a selloff as investors tried to front-run the exit
Unrest in Mexico impacts local family and business owner
One Smith Mountain Lake business owner says just weeks ago, Guadalajara felt safe and vibrant, but now, his family is sheltering in place as violence disrupts daily life.
Touchscreen OLED MacBook Pro Coming in 2026 With Dynamic Island and Redesigned macOS Controls
The rumored touchscreen OLED MacBook Pro that Apple has in development will adopt the iPhone's Dynamic Island and a hole-punch camera, reports Bloomberg. The Dynamic Island will replace the notch, leaving more available screen space for content. As with the iPhone's Dynamic Island, the Mac Dynamic Island will be interactive and it will contextually expand based on the app or Mac feature in use. Apple is updating macOS to make it more touch friendly.
READY, SET, IMPLEMENT! Lifelines in Crisis: Prioritizing Women’s, Children’s, and Adolescents’ Health in Humanitarian and Conflict-affected Settings
Conflict, climate change and displacement are driving a global “permacrisis,” with over half of maternal and child deaths occurring in fragile settings. This PMNCH webinar explores rights-based, resilient approaches to protect WCAH and SRHR, strengthen local systems, and accelerate integrated health action in crisis contexts.
Honored by the National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Awards: First Place for Podcast Host
I’m deeply honored to share that my podcast, Make Your Own Map, was recognized by the National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Awards (NAEJ) with
Healthy eating with conscious plates
We're celebrating Black History Month and putting healthy eating on the table without losing flavor.
Atlanta Braves launch own broadcast network after split with FanDuel Sports Network
The games will be available without any blackout restrictions.
The ACA health coverage subsidy lapse hit 22 million people. Here are some of their stories
The lapse of enhanced subsidies for Affordable Care Act marketplace insurance has forced families to make difficult financial choices.
50 year quest ends with creation of silicon aromatic once thought impossible
After nearly 50 years of failed attempts and scientific speculation, chemists at Saarland University have achieved what many thought might be impossible: creating a long-sought silicon-based aromatic molecule. By replacing carbon atoms in a famously stable ring-shaped compound with silicon, the team synthesized pentasilacyclopentadienide — a breakthrough published in Science.
4 Patriots storylines to watch at the NFL Combine
The Combine takes place this week in Indianapolis.
Mamdani’s Vanquished Foes Are Plotting a Comeback, if Not Revenge
Many of New York City’s wealthy and well-connected power players find themselves in an unfamiliar place: the wilderness.
How much liberty do you really believe in?
I’m guessing my regular readers, if asked which Colorado Politics story I would choose to write about this week, would guess the Out West Roundup, which I admit is a personal favorite. The notion New Mexico would launch a “Truth Commission” investigation into Jeffrey Epstein’s ranch and what happened there is certainly worth exploring. One […]
Gossip: Reds consider Szoboszlai-Rodrygo swap deal
Liverpool could consider a swap deal with Real Madrid which would bring Brazil winger Rodrygo, 25, to Anfield and allow midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai to join the Spanish giants. Fichajes - in Spanish) Aston Villa, Crystal Palace and Wolves are among the clubs interested in signing Andy Robertson, should the left-back leave Anfield this summer. (Caught Offside)
Gossip: Palace keen on Robertson
Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Wolves are among the clubs interested in signing Scotland left-back Andy Robertson, should the 31-year-old leave Liverpool this summer. Caught Offside) Palace will allow Austrian manager Oliver Glasner to continue to lead the team until the end of the season. (Football Insider)
France restricts US ambassador’s access to officials after summons no-show
US Ambassador sends embassy official in his place, his second time to skip a summons from the French Foreign Ministry.
Newcastle United vs Qarabag – Predicted lineup and team news
Newcastle United host Qarabag at St. James’ Park on Tuesday night, aiming to confirm their place in the Champions League last 16 following a dominant first-leg display.The Magpies have moved into a ...
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Tara Croft, the CEO of Baymatob, demonstrates placing the Oli sensor, which is wireless, on electrode tabs that help keep the system in place during birth on Monday, February 23,
What to watch for when Arizona men’s basketball visits Baylor
A lot was accomplished on Saturday, when Arizona went to Houston and beat the two-time defending Big 12 regular season champions on their own court. The win helped the Wildcats (25-2, 12-2) take over sole possession of first place in the Big 12, with effectively a 2-game lead on the field with four to go. […]
Trump’s Suddenly High-Stakes State of the Union
The president is visiting Congress in a dramatically different place from where he was a year ago.
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.
What to Expect From the iPhone 17e Launching in March 2026
We've got just over a week to go until Apple's "Special Experience" on March 4, and we're expecting to see the iPhone 17e announced during the week of the event. The iPhone 17e will be the first update to the new low-cost iPhone 16e that Apple unveiled in February 2025. Design The iPhone 17e will look a lot like the iPhone 16e, featuring the same 6.1-inch display size, single-lens rear camera, and black and white color options.
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.
Apple Launches New 'Sales Coach' App
Apple today debuted a new Sales Coach app for the iPhone and the iPad, replacing the former SEED app. Designed for Apple Store and Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP) employees, Sales Coach provides training resources and information useful for Apple device sales. Sales Coach is available for Apple Store and AASP employees worldwide, and Apple has released it as an update to the former SEED app. Those who have the SEED app will see it change to Sales Coach when installing the latest update.
To spotlight Trump cuts to health insurance, Welch brings Vermont lawmaker to the State of the Union
Both elected officials are striving to call attention to expired Obamacare subsidies and the high cost of health insurance they say only federal action can address.
'Xbox Is Being Sunsetted' — Seamus Blackley, One of the Creators of Xbox, Thinks Recent Shakeup Spells the End for Microsoft's Gaming Business
Amid the official statements and many tweets that followed one of the biggest shakeups ever at Xbox, one of its creators believes Microsoft’s true plan is to bring its gaming business to an end.
Arabella Solomon ’33 Earns First Place in Regional Science Fair
Arabella Solomon ’33 took home top honors at the regional science fair on Saturday, Feb. 14, for her project, titled "Using Sound Frequencies to Clear Microplastics from NC Waterways.”
SGMC Health Honors Wallace with BEE Award
SGMC Health recognized Shantonitt Wallace, Patient Care Technician, as the recipient of the Being Extraordinary Everyday (BEE) Award
Nothing reveals the Phone 4a ahead of schedule
Nothing just officially revealed the Phone 4a via a photo. This will likely replace the pre-existing 3a smartphone.
New Microsoft gaming chief has "no tolerance for bad AI"
But Asha Sharma faces scrutiny for lack of gaming experience.
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.
Industry Innovators 2026: Grace Good
The founder of Goodness Gracious Creative Entertainment approaches event entertainment from a performer’s perspective.
Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 4 Pro will support head-shaking gestures, lacks case speaker
Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Buds 4 Pro will take at least one page out of Apple's playbook, but that rumored case speaker seems to be missing.
Spring 2026 Sports Preview
The Ithacan’s digital sports preview. Get the rundown on what to watch out for, all in one place. Updated daily, from Feb. 23 to Feb. 28.
Health Savings Accounts Can Be a Bad Deal for Low-Income Marketplace Enrollees
In the wake of their actions that have worsened health care affordability, President Trump and Republicans in Congress have pushed to expand health savings accounts (HSAs). But this doubles down on an inequitable coverage model.
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…
Oregon’s Behavioral Health Talent Council releases final report
Many parts of Oregon lack mental health care providers, especially in rural counties.
Android's Weather 'app' is going away, and what's left behind is disappointing
It is being replaced by generic web results.
'Beep Boop Beep Boop': New Xbox Boss Asha Sharma Hits Back at Claim Her Social Media Account Is Run by AI, and Posts Her Gamertag
Microsoft's new gaming boss Asha Sharma has begun chatting on social media with Xbox fans — and responding to comments regarding her perceived lack of gaming knowledge and background in AI.
‘Flow’ dramatically improves Android voice typing without replacing Gboard
Voice-to-text on Android is really good if you’re using a Pixel, and pretty hit or miss everywhere else. But the...
BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on HappyPlace Berkshires in Great Barrington
An artist-entrepreneur transforms Berkshire pride into locally made screenprints and other branded merchandise, building community one iconic design at a time.
Snow surge in Sierra sparks business boom in Truckee
Along Donner Pass Road, the Wagon Train diner—an area staple established in the 1940s—has been especially busy as residents and visitors look for a warm place to gather.
This year's Mag Lab open house connects books and science
The immersive demonstrations and exhibits showcase the world changing research that takes place every day at the famed facility.
British acting awards interrupted by racist slur from man with Tourette Syndrome
It was the clip heard around the world after Sunday night’s BAFTA ceremony in London — a man yelling a racist slur as two of the world’s most celebrated Black actors, Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo, presented an award on stage.
Black Health Matters: Atlanta health summit empowers community wellness
The Black Health Matters Winter Health Summit in Atlanta on Saturday offered free health screenings, expert-led fitness sessions, and vital resources designed to educate, empower, and inspire proactive wellness for all.
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
A giant blade-crested spinosaurus, the “hell heron,” discovered in the Sahara
Deep in the heart of the Sahara, scientists have uncovered Spinosaurus mirabilis — a spectacular new predator crowned with a massive, scimitar-shaped crest that may once have blazed with color under the desert sun. Discovered in remote inland river deposits in Niger, the fossil rewrites what we thought we knew about spinosaur dinosaurs, suggesting they weren’t fully aquatic hunters but powerful waders stalking fish in forested waterways hundreds of miles from the sea.