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Gemini can now automate some multi-step tasks on Android
Gemini on Android will be able to automate tasks involving rideshare requests, or grocery or food delivery, says Google.
Samsung Unveils All New Galaxy Buds4 Series With Ultimate Sound
Samsung audio innovation delivers original sound as intended and intelligent adaptive controls for every environment
Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 LIVE: How to Watch S26 Ultra Reveal
Live minute-to-minute coverage from Galaxy Unpacked 2026 straight from San Fransisco. Follow along the Galaxy S26 launch with S26 Ultra, S26 Plus, and S26 Edge reveals.
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...
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.
Samsung Galaxy S26 launch live: S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra specs, Galaxy Buds 4, price, release date, and what is expected
Samsung is going to be launching its new devices today and we are closely following it all!
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.
Resident Evil Requiem reviews roundup
Resident Evil Requiem reviews are now starting to come in just before launch - check out the verdicts here.
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.
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.
Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 live: Updates from the Galaxy S26 launch event
Follow along Engadget's reporters as we cover the news as it happens from Samsung's event.
Amazon's AI-powered Alexa+ gets new personality options
Users will be able to choose from Alexa styles like Brief, Chill or Sweet, Amazon says.
Platform Science Unveils Landmark Driver Experience Report on Pay, Technology, and Retention
SAN DIEGO, February 25, 2026--Platform Science, the leading connected vehicle platform, today released its inaugural Driver Experience Report, a nationwide survey of more than 1,100 commercial drivers on factors like pay and technology that most influence their job satisfaction. The report provides data-driven insights into truckers’ perspectives on topics like communication, compensation, safety, and long-term retention, establishing what Platform Science believes are the industry’s first bench
Samsung reportedly sending store credit to users right before Galaxy S26 launch
Check your emails – some users have reported that Samsung sent them store credit to use at its online market....
Patriotism over politics: USA Hockey team honored by Trump amid backlash
U.S. Men's Hockey team faces backlash after their White House visit as Joe Concha defends them. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani downplays a snowball attack that injured NYPD officers.
From campus to community: UCSC brings science to the neighborhood to spark local dialogue
UC Santa Cruz has launched a lecture series that takes researchers out of the lab and into neighborhoods to provide the public with a clearer understanding of cutting-edge science.
Private equity to buy Arcosa's barge business for $450 million
Arcosa Inc., Dallas, announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its barge building business to Wynnchurch Capital LP, Rosemont, Ill., for $450 million in cash, continuing a string of
Teetering US tech trade puts anchor on market as Nvidia test looms
The technology stock trade has stumbled out of the starting block in 2026, stemming from pressure from artificial intelligence disruption fears and the allure of groups that have lagged, but the broader market may struggle to make substantial gains without the heavyweight sector's help.
Datavault AI (DVLT), Wellgistics Health Expand Partnership to Launch Blockchain-Powered HaaS Model
Datavault AI Inc. (NASDAQ:DVLT) is one of the best penny stocks under $1 to buy right now. On February 23, Datavault AI and Wellgistics Health Inc. (NASDAQ:WGRX) announced an expansion of their partnership to develop a Healthcare-as-a-Service/HaaS model powered by blockchain-enabled smart contracts. This initiative builds on their existing PharmacyChain technology, which currently digitizes the […]
WORLD'S PREMIER LIVE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY CONFERENCES JOIN FORCES FOR INAUGURAL LIVE SUMMIT MIDDLE EAST
/PRNewswire/ -- The two largest media companies in the global live entertainment business are joining forces to launch a first-of-its-kind international event:...
WORLD'S PREMIER LIVE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY CONFERENCES JOIN FORCES FOR INAUGURAL LIVE SUMMIT MIDDLE EAST
The two largest media companies in the global live entertainment business are joining forces to launch a first-of-its-kind international event: the Live Summit Middle East.
UK HealthCare launches Food as Health initiative across Kentucky
UK HealthCare is expanding its Food as Health Alliance, a new initiative embedded within UK HealthCare that delivers “food is medicine” services to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations across Kentucky.
Colorado is turning its back on agriculture
Colorado’s farmers and ranchers already face significant challenges, including volatile commodity prices, rising input costs, labor shortages and unpredictable weather. They should not also have to contend with a state legislature that increasingly seeks to regulate how they protect crops and livestock. Yet that is precisely what Senate Bills 26-062 and 26-065 represent: a top-down […]
NSF–DOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory Launches Real-Time Discovery Machine for Monitoring the Night Sky
NSF–DOE Rubin Observatory has issued its first scientific alerts, marking a historic milestone in astrophysics. Expected to increase to seven million alerts per night, these first alerts start a new era of dynamic, real-time observation of the night sky.
Basketball box scores, other sports results for Tuesday, February 24, 2026; Playoff basketball schedule
TUESDAY’S RESULTS Boys Basketball WPIAL CLASS 5A PLAYOFFS Semifinals Chartiers Valley 39, Moon 37 Moon 4 13 12 8 — 37 Chartiers Valley 12 7...
Michigan uses second-half surge to defeat Minnesota, 77-67
It wasn’t pretty, but Michigan basketball used a second-half surge led by its bench to defeat Minnesota, 77-67. Here is how it all went down:
Florida’s gambling helpline sees surge in calls since online sports betting’s launch in 2023
The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling says calls to the state’s gambling helpline tied to online wagering have skyrocketed since legalized sports betting launched in 2023.
Storm warning: A needed reset
Coming off a loss at BYU where the Cyclones looked constantly one step behind, TJ Otzelburger’s squad will play their second of a two leg trip to Utah as they take on a woeful Utah Utes team that has clinched just two conference wins so far this season. While road games in the Big 12 […]
iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max Expected to Feature Smaller Dynamic Island
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will have a smaller Dynamic Island, according to Bloomberg. Over the past year, there have been mixed rumors about whether the iPhone 18 Pro models will continue to feature a Dynamic Island or have a hole punch camera with under screen Face ID and no Dynamic Island, but the latest information suggests we're not getting rid of the Dynamic Island just yet.
Barshop Institute to receive up to $38 million from ARPA-H, anchoring UT San Antonio as a national leader in aging and healthy longevity science - UT Health San Antonio
Contact: Steven Lee, (210) 450-3823, lees22@uthscsa.edu SAN ANTONIO, Feb. 24, 2026 – Positioning The University of Texas at San Antonio as a national anchor for aging and longevity science, its Sam and Ann Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies will receive up to $38 million in federal funding for the first nationwide clinical study […]
Barshop Institute to receive up to $38 million from ARPA-H, anchoring UT San Antonio as a national leader in aging and healthy longevity science - UT Health San Antonio
Contact: Steven Lee, (210) 450-3823, lees22@uthscsa.edu SAN ANTONIO, Feb. 24, 2026 – Positioning The University of Texas at San Antonio as a national anchor for aging and longevity science, its Sam and Ann Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies will receive up to $38 million in federal funding for the first nationwide clinical study […]
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.
'Scream 7' hits theaters this weekend. Where did we leave off with the slasher franchise?
This marks the first film since the exit of Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega, who starred in the last two 'Scream' movies.
Birders Around the World Help Track ‘the Heartbeats of the Planet’
Launched three decades ago, the Great Backyard Bird Count mobilizes citizen scientists to monitor bird populations and advance research.
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.
Instagram's TV app is launching on Google TV devices
By bringing Reels to TVs, Instagram looking to better compete with YouTube, which largely dominates the TV space.
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.
Oppo teases the Find N6’s crease-less display ahead of rumored March launch
Oppo's Find N6 might not be coming to the US, but if its display is as impressive as this teaser suggests, you're going to wish it was.
YouTube beefs up its $7.99/month Lite subscription with offline downloads and background play
Now the only reason to get the full Premium subscription is ad-free music and music videos.
Uber Health Launches Self-Booking Feature to Empower Riders and Streamline Operations
Industry-first capability reduces administrative burden for providers, health systems, and I/DD organizations while boosting rider independenceSAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Uber Health today announced the launch of its rider self-booking feature, a new platform capability that enables healthcare and disability service organizations to offer their riders the ability to book their own organization-funded trips directly in the Uber app. The launch marks the latest milestone in Ub
Fallout 4 Switch 2 Launch Trailer Gives Us A Better Glimpse At The Wasteland
Derelict in the best way
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.
At HIMSS26, eClinicalWorks will introduce new AI API tool for EHRs
Its CEO says healthcare organizations must "mobilize" their electronic health record systems, using AI-enabled platforms to get tangible value from all the data they've been collecting for two decades.
iOS 26.4 release date: Here’s when to expect new iPhone features
iOS 26.4 is a big update with new features for Apple Music, Podcasts, CarPlay, and more, here’s when to expect its public launch.
How Public Health Officials Use Data to Protect a Community
Over the course of her career, Dr. Janet Berreman has relied on data to identify, understand, and guide her response to community health needs. One source of that data comes from syndromic surveillance, an automated data feed that can act as an early warning system for emerging health threats.
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.
Atlanta Braves announce new team-owned, produced broadcast, streaming network
‘Braves Vision’ will launch in 2026 on various streaming, linear outlets
Ambitious Des Moines company cuts goals as it misses jobs benchmarks
OpenLoop Health started with big goals. Now it's backing down on incentive contracts with city, state as it falls short on local job creation.
GAP INC. LAUNCHES ENCORE, A NEW AND MORE REWARDING LOYALTY EXPERIENCE FOR LOVERS OF FASHION & ENTERTAINMENT
/PRNewswire/ -- Gap Inc. (NYSE: GAP) today announced the launch of Encore, a new membership program that creates new ways for customers to connect with its...
Integrated Partners Launches Integrated Private Wealth to Guide Business Owners Through High-Stakes Transitions
BOSTON, February 24, 2026--Integrated Partners ("Integrated"), a national financial planning and registered investment advisory (RIA) firm serving more than $25 billion in assets under advisement (AUA), has announced the launch of Integrated Private Wealth, a new private wealth brand purpose-built to guide business owners and their families through complex, high-stakes liquidity events and regret free transitions.
Story Health by Innovaccer Partners with Allina Health Minneapolis Heart Institute To Launch Virtual Heart Failure Management Program
SAN FRANCISCO, February 24, 2026--Innovaccer Inc., a leading healthcare AI company, today announced a strategic partnership with Allina Health Minneapolis Heart Institute’s Center for Healthcare Delivery Innovation to expand access to guideline-directed heart failure management across Minnesota and western Wisconsin. By using Story Health, Innovaccer’s virtual specialty care and patient monitoring platform, Allina Health Minneapolis Heart Institute will extend continuous Guideline-Directed Medic
Atlanta Braves launch own broadcast network after split with FanDuel Sports Network
The games will be available without any blackout restrictions.
Could pro hockey anchor Phoenix's entertainment district?
At a panel discussion hosted by the Urban Land Institute, sports and real estate leaders discussed the future of downtown Phoenix.
Russian Offensive Hampered by War Losses, Western Officials Say
Mounting Russian casualties are likely to hinder President Vladimir Putin’s ability to launch a large-scale offensive against Ukraine in the coming months, according to Western officials.
Cleveland's next big sports destination: Cosm
The venue will serve as an anchor for Cleveland's riverfront development plan.
4 things to watch in Trump’s State of the Union
Republicans want Donald Trump to hard launch a midterm message on affordability and the economy, and the president will likely address tariffs again. Here’s what to watch.
The State of the Union brings a big audience for Trump. But does it matter?
In the age of algorithm-driven social media feeds, the audience for the speech is increasingly fragmented and entrenched in their political positions.
Villanova Athletics Announces Strategic Revenue Partnership with NOCAP Sports
Villanova, Pa.—Villanova Athletics has partnered with NOCAP Sports to launch a new initiative focused on generating sustainable revenue through strategic business relationships.
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 […]
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.
Senne Lammens: David Moyes makes bold claim about United goalkeeper
Manchester United registered a hard-fought win away to Everton, opening up a three-point lead over Chelsea and Liverpool.Benjamin Sesko came off the bench to score United’s winner with a first-time ...
Justin Verlander, Miggy Tigers reunion prompts ‘unbelievable’ reaction
The Tigers brought in two franchise greats this past offseason in Justin Verlander and Miguel Cabrera, and the early returns have been great.
Punch the sad viral TikTok monkey sends Ikea plush sales soaring
A viral baby monkey hugging an Ikea plush has sent the $19.99 toy flying off shelves and surging on resale sites.
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.
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.
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.
This is Trump 2.0, bro. What do you bench?
Their policies divide the country, but on social media the president’s men are crushing it as influencers, bro.
Neopets TTRPG Playtest Material Pulled for Controversial Material
The owners of the Neopets franchise recently pulled Neopets TTRPG playtest material due to it containing controversial material by developer Geekify.
Ex-Apple team launches Acme Weather, a new take on weather forecasting
The team that sold their last app Dark Sky to Apple are back with Acme Weather, which offers alternative forecasts, rainbow and sunset alerts, and more.
A look at the first new business to launch in Altadena following the Eaton Fire
2026 Business Leaders of the Year
Central Massachusetts is full of amazing professionals, each with their own unique skills, talents, and dedication to their companies, industries, and communities. You could make a strong case for hundreds of them to be considered as WBJ’s Business Leader of the Year. Yet, to actually win the award, you need to have that little something extra: a magic spark, an insight no one else sees, years of knowledge that pay off with the right decision at the right time, a leadership style inspiring people to follow, a push for a paradigm shift at a stagnant organization. Business Leader of the Year is WBJ’s oldest award, launched in 1982 when Herb Dunnington of First Safety Fund Bank won the sole award. In the decades since, BLOY has expanded to honor winners from different corners of the economy: small businesses, large businesses, nonprofits, innovation, families. Each of the six winners this year has that something special setting them apart as true leaders in our Central Massachusetts business community: Neelu Mohaghegh’s creativity, Nick Haritos’ compassion, Nicolette Sacco’s adaptability, Julie Bowditch’s energy, Sean Rose’s steadiness, the Vaccaro family’s culture. You can read more about each of them through the links below.
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
The Brain Science Behind the Munchies
The Brain Science Behind the Munchies: New cannabis research shows why we get snacky when we get high
Apple Could Launch at Least Five New Products, Including iPhone 17E, Next Week
A Bloomberg report suggests a potential one-two-three punch of product launches over consecutive days from Apple, including three new MacBooks and an iPad with M4 chip.
Amazon's King Of Meat Is Shutting Down, Less Than A Year After Launch
Amazon's big-budgeted cooperative multiplayer gamble did not become gaming royalty.
We already have a good idea how capable the new MacBook will be
Once the new low-cost MacBook launches this week, those wanting to buy a portable Mac will have a choice of...
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 […]
Bausch Health's Aesthetics Business, Solta Medical, Announces the Launch of Clear + Brilliant® Touch Laser in Canada
Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE:BHC)(TSX:BHC), a global, diversified pharmaceutical company, and Solta Medical, a global leader in medical aesthetics, today announced the launch of the Clear + Brilliant® Touch laser in Canada. The device was approved by Health Canada on May 20, 2025, marking an important milestone as demand for non‑invasive skin rejuvenation treatments continues to grow across Canada. With this approval, Canadian physicians are able to offer one of the most advanced dual-wave
iPhone 18 Pro Reportedly Enters Trial Production Stage
Apple's upcoming iPhone 18 Pro has entered production testing ahead of a launch later this year, a Chinese leaker reported today. In a Weibo post, the leaker account known as "Fixed Focus Digital" said the Pro models had already entered "mass-production testing," likely referring to late-stage manufacturing validation for the devices ahead of a September launch.
New cardiology-OB-GYN continuing education to launch with $1 million gift from leading media voice on health Dr. Jennifer Ashton and husband Tom Werner
Embargoed until 1pm ET, Monday, February 23, 2026 DALLAS, Feb. 23, 2026 — The American Heart Association today announced a bold new initiative designed to transform how clinicians identify and treat cardiovascular risk in midlife women. The...
A hidden force beneath the Atlantic ripped open a 500 kilometer canyon
Far beneath the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,000 kilometers off Portugal’s coast, lies a colossal underwater canyon system that dwarfs even the Grand Canyon. Known as the King’s Trough Complex, this 500-kilometer stretch of trenches and deep basins formed not from rushing water, but from dramatic tectonic forces that once tore the seafloor apart.
2026 NFL mock draft: Eagles go to the trenches
Here’s our first mock draft of 2026 as we figure out what the Eagles will do at No. 23.
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.
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.
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.
French artist JR's installation will transform Paris' oldest bridge into a giant cave
French artist JR, popular for his large-scale projects from photographs to graffiti and street art, wants Parisians to do something unusual: stop for an immersive experience on the city’s oldest bridge, Pont Neuf.
Teton Science School, Indian Springs Ranch plan for tunnel to ease left turns onto Highway 22
Left turns out of the Teton Science Schools’ Jackson campus onto Highway 22 are harrowing.
MND Local: Business as usual in San Miguel, despite lockdown rumours
San Miguel remained quiet throughout Sunday's fallout over the death of El Mencho, even as unrest in nearby cities spread throughout Mexico
Highlights! Shields Pummels Crews-Dezurn In Wild Brawl
The No. 1 pound-for-pound female boxer in the world, and self-proclaimed GWOAT, Claressa Shields, was back in action last night (Sun., Feb, 22, 2026) against Franchon Crews-Dezurn in Detroit, Michigan in a rematch 10 years in the making. From the jump, the two ladies wasted no times getting acquainted once again as they each channeled […]
Forget Le Pen. French politics has a new archvillain.
The far-right National Rally wants to build a firewall around the hard-left France Unbowed after the killing of Quentin Deranque.
UC/UC Health Addiction Center to advance addiction research, treatment and education
The University of Cincinnati and UC Health have launched the UC/UC Health Addiction Center, a multidisciplinary initiative designed to unite research with clinical and educational expertise to improve addiction prevention and treatment outcomes in the Greater Cincinnati community and beyond.
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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