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Readers respond: Trump administration assaults science, health care
Letters to the Editor can be submitted to letters@oregonian.com with full name and place of residence.
Readers respond: Trump administration assaults science, health care
Letters to the Editor can be submitted to letters@oregonian.com with full name and place of residence.
Readers respond: Medicare’s broken system for home health care
Letters to the Editor can be submitted to letters@oregonian.com with full name and place of residence.
March Madness bubble watch: Stock up, down heading into conference tournaments
With Selection Sunday a week away, teams on the bubble are running out of time to impress the NCAA tournament selection committee.
I'm in a committed relationship, but we live in separate homes
My partner lives off-grid in a yurt while I rent a lakeside home. Living apart has strengthened our relationship.
Committee advances Guthrie's internet safety bill
It did not have the support of Democrats, who argued the legislation does not go far enough.
Is Trump saying Kristi Noem committed perjury?
Either President Donald Trump isn’t telling the truth, or Kristi Noem seems to have committed perjury.
Texas GOP Rep. Tony Gonzales withdraws re-election bid after admitting to affair with staffer
Gonzales is withdrawing from his re-election race after having admitted to an affair with a former staff member who later died by suicide.
Texas GOP Rep. Tony Gonzales withdraws re-election bid after admitting to affair with staffer
Gonzales is withdrawing from his re-election race after having admitted to an affair with a former staff member who later died by suicide.
Reps. Finstad, Craig spar over farm bill politics in marathon House Agriculture committee
Rep. Brad Finstad, R-1st, accused Rep. Angie Craig, D-2nd, of playing politics with farm policy because she is seeking higher office.
Kraft Sports and Entertainment to cover gap in security costs for FIFA World Cup matches
Kraft Sports and Entertainment has committed to assisting cover the costs of security for the World Cup Games in Foxborough.
Kraft Sports and Entertainment agrees to help cover security costs of hosting World Cup
Gillette Stadium announced Thursday that Kraft Sports and Entertainment committed to helping cover the security costs of hosting seven World Cup games at the venue this summer.
House GOP leaders call on Rep. Gonzales to end reelection campaign
House Republican leaders made the request hours after Gonzales admitted, for the first time, to an affair with a staffer who later died after setting herself on fire.
Texas GOP Rep. Tony Gonzales Won’t Seek Re-Election
The announcement came after House GOP leaders asked the lawmaker to quit the campaign after he admitted to an affair.
New Jersey Cities Must Explain Marijuana Business Denials, Court Says
“While the City Council was permitted to consider all relevant evidence and has wide discretion…we hold that the City Council has to provide a discernible reason for its determination.” By Sophie Nieto-Muñoz, New Jersey Monitor New Jersey’s cannabis industry scored a victory Tuesday when a state appellate panel ruled that municipalities must explain why they […]
White House formally nominates Kevin Warsh to be next Federal Reserve chair
Warsh's nomination, which was initially announced Jan. 30, was forwarded to the Senate Wednesday, where it will be taken up by the Senate Banking Committee.
House ethics panel investigates GOP Rep. Gonzales of Texas over affair allegations
The House Ethics Committee said Wednesday that it has opened an investigation of Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas, over allegations that include having an affair with an aide.
Legends Business Launchpad Presented by InTouch Credit Union
Small Businesses are vital to the economy, and an important part of the communities we live and work in across North Texas. InTouch Credit Union and the Texas Legends are committed to healthier small businesses here in our own community. That’s why we are celebrating small businesses- with a big opportunity to promote small business to Texas Legends fans at no cost through the Legends Business Launchpad Presented by InTouch Credit Union Enter for a chance to have your business in the spotlight and promoted to the Texas Legends community. Prize Details Winners will receive the following:
House Oversight Committee subpoenas Attorney General Pam Bondi
Bondi has faced criticism from Democrats, and some Republicans, over the Justice Department’s handling of the Epstein files.
House Oversight panel votes to subpoena AG Pam Bondi in Epstein probe
The Republican-led House Oversight Committee voted to subpoena US Attorney General Pam Bondi for testimony about her role in the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files as part of the committee’s probe into the late convicted sex offender.
AHA podcast: Advancing Community Health
Doug Brown, partner with Manatt Health and current chair of the AHA’s Foster G. McGaw Prize Committee, discusses how hospitals are tackling food insecurity, workforce development, safe neighborhoods and other social drivers of health through authentic community partnerships. Discover what it takes for hospitals to truly serve as cornerstones of their communities, and how the Foster G.
House Science Committee leaders criticize FCC rulemaking on space safety
The leaders of the House Science Committee say the FCC is overstepping its authority with parts of a space licensing rulemaking.
House committee decides not to ask voters to legalize mobile sports betting
PIERRE — A committee of state representatives rejected a measure that would have asked South Dakota voters to approve sports betting and use the resulting tax revenue to fund property tax relief. Rep....
Takeaways from Kristi Noem’s combative Senate Judiciary Committee hearing
Senators grilled Noem about her early descriptions of two US citizens who were killed by federal officers in Minneapolis, her use of executive jets and whether ICE will be sent to polling places
Tillis threatens to hijack Senate business amid frustrations with Noem
The retiring North Carolina Republican lashed the embattled DHS chief during her testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee.
GOP senator calls for revision to federal law as sports fans pay big on outrageous streaming prices
The Senate Judiciary Committee chairman called for updates to the 1961 Sports Broadcasting Act after the FCC invited feedback on the move of live sports from broadcast TV to streaming services.
Holland & Knight Health Dose: March 3, 2026 | Insights
The U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations can submit requests for community project funding or "earmarks" as part of the LHHS appropriations bill.
AHCA/NCAL Submits Comments on Health Information Interoperability Proposed Rule
AHCA/NCAL submitted comments recently to the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ASTP/ONC) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in response to ...
How the IRC supports women’s health amidst crisis in remote regions of the DRC
In times of conflict, women and girls face the greatest risks—violence, exploitation and limited access to essential care. This International Women’s Day, discover how the International Rescue Committee (IRC) is supporting survivors of gender-based violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
WATCH: Hillary Clinton's full deposition on Jeffrey Epstein ties before House Oversight panel
Videos of former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton answering questions about convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein were released Monday by a House committee investigating the late financier.
US House committee releases videos of the Clintons’ Epstein testimonies
Bill and Hillary Clinton last week faced hours of questioning from lawmakers about the convicted sex offender
House panel releases videos of Clinton depositions in Epstein investigation
Former president Bill Clinton and former secretary of state Hillary Clinton appeared last week before the Republican-led House Oversight Committee.
House Oversight Committee releases video of Clinton depositions on Epstein
The House Oversight Committee has released video footage of the closed-door depositions of Bill and Hillary Clinton that occurred last week in Chappaqua, New York, as part of the panel’s investigation into Jeffrey Epstein.
Oversight demands DOJ answers on foreign funding of agitator groups as Iran, anti-ICE protests continue
House Oversight Committee requests DOJ briefing on foreign funding behind anti-ICE protest groups.
Intermittent fasting and eating rhythmicity: what we know about their impact on metabolic and gut health
Intermittent fasting has gained attention as a strategy that may support metabolic health. Does it truly translate into measurable benefits?
‘The Black Affair’ showcases Black-owned businesses at ETHS
“The Black Affair,” a Black-owned vendor and business showcase, took place at Evanston Township High School Saturday. This is the first time “The Black Affair,” sponsored by the school’s Black History Month Committee, has welcomed outside community members, according to the event’s founder, ETHS Administrative Assistant Ebony Redmond. Last year, Redmond said the event was...
AmpQuartz Disrupts Sports Industry with Launch of AQ Smash Subsidiary and Malaysia's Luxurious Badminton Hub in Mount Austin
AmpQuartz launches subsidiary AQ Smash, unveiling Malaysia's luxurious P.R IND badminton showroom in Mount Austin. Featuring custom cabinets, hub hosts AmpQuartz Badminton Club. Committed to building happy families, AmpQuartz sponsors JHBA youth players and donates sales to charity, extending care beyond renovation into community sports.Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 1, 2026) - AmpQuartz, a leader in custom cabinets and storage system design and planning, today announces a
Republican responds: neighbors before politics
To the editor, I read with great interest and compassion the recent letter from a neighbor, Emily Shapiro, who submitted “Is it too late to know thy neighbor?” in the Riverdale Press’s …
Washington state progressives strike big business tax break from ‘millionaire’s tax’
The Washington State House Finance Committee made revisions to a proposed income tax after a group of progressive lawmakers said the previous version gave away too much while not doing enough for working families.
Alabama House committee approves bill to allow public health agency to inspect jails and prisons
Many groups say the kitchens and food service areas need to be inspected to help prevent illnesses from spreading.
Vanderbilt Health Pets of the Day: Momo and Smokey
Today’s first Dog of the Day is Momo, submitted by Ginger DeBellis of the Vanderbilt Vaccine Center. “Momo is a sweet and super smart blue merle Australian shepard who loves learning new tricks, neighbor watching and snuggles.“ Today’s second Dog of the Day is Smokey, submitted by Haley Villacorta of Population Health. “Smokey is a Pomsky (Pomeranian and Siberian husky mix).” Pets of the Day — what you need to know The Vanderbilt Health Pets of the Day are included in regular editions of the MyVUMC News newsletter, which is posted twice a week by Vanderbilt Health News and Communications. The pets are selected from the hundreds of entries sent to the Voice Pet Photo Contest. For those who submitted a photo to that contest, watch MyVUMC News for Pets of the Day, and in addition, regular collections of pet photos are posted to the Voice site. You can see them all here: https://news.vumc.org/section/voice/pets-vumc/. If you have a pet you would like to nominate for Pet of the Day, the next Pet Photo Contest submission period is coming up later this year, and will be announced in MyVUMC News. Momo and Smokey were featured in the March 3, 2026, edition of MyVUMC News.
Benavidez chosen to fill Senate District 21 vacancy after Michaelson Jenet resigns
A Democratic Senate District 21 vacancy committee Thursday night chose former Rep. Adrienne Benavidez, D-Adams County, to replace former Sen. Dafna Michaelson Jenet. Michaelson Jenet resigned on Feb. 13 to become the director of the David and Laura Merage Foundation for Combating Antisemitism. Benavidez served three terms in the House, rising to the position of […]
RFK Jr. vaccine panel to discuss long COVID, vaccine injuries in next meeting
The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or ACIP, is now scheduled to meet on March 18 and 19.
Federal panel behind cancer screening recommendations hasn't met in nearly a year
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force's meetings have stalled as Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has reshaped other federal advisory committees.
AIPAC faces test of its power in Illinois primary as Democrats debate future of Israel relationship
A crowded Democratic primary in Illinois is shaping up as the next test for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, a powerful advocacy organization that has stirred anger and frustration while exacerbating tensions over the war in Gaza
Why the Clintons’ ordeal might end up backfiring on Trump
When former President Bill Clinton testifies to a congressional committee Friday on the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, he will be setting a precedent that President Donald Trump may come to regret.
Kentucky Rep. James Comer spearheads Epstein questioning of Clintons
The Clintons were subpoenaed to testify as part of the committee's investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, but they have never been accused of wrongdoing in connection with Epstein.
Senate will consider bills on football safety, support for women's sports
The Cohen Craddock Student Athlete Safety Act was discussed and advanced by the Senate Finance Committee.
Hillary Clinton derides her Epstein deposition as GOP ‘political theater’
Hillary Clinton appeared before the House Oversight Committee as she began hours of closed-door testimony in front of the Republican-led panel.
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
Clinton: If committee were ‘serious’ it would ask Trump about Epstein ties ‘directly under oath’
TXBIZ PAC Announces 2026 Texas Primary Election Endorsements for Pro-Business Candidates
AUSTIN, TX — Today, TXBIZ PAC, the political action committee representing the Texas Association of Business, released its full list of endorsed candidates for the March 3rd, 2026 Primary Elections. “The TXBIZ PAC Board is proud to endorse candidates and officeholders who are committed to protecting and strengthening Texas’ unrivaled pro-business climate,” said TXBIZ PAC…
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 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.
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
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
‘Open for business’ or ‘body count?’ Bill would curb environmental, health protections
Kentucky regulators could not issue regulations to protect health and the environment until people are being harmed under a bill that moved from committee.
Senate poised to reauthorize key small business fund used by Pentagon
The bill resolves a months-long gridlock between the heads of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee over how to reform the SBIR program.
Meet the man Trump picked to pursue his war on fraud at the Justice Department
The morning after President Donald Trump declared a “war on fraud” during his State of the Union address, Senior Justice Department prosecutor Colin McDonald sat before the Senate Judiciary Committee and said he would steadfastly follow the department’s tradition to focus only on the evidence.
NCAA committee recommends stiff penalties for college football teams that try to circumvent transfer portal
This is the first year of a single transfer portal window in college football
Bipartisan opposition sinks eviction bill in Colorado
Two Democrats sided with Republicans on the House Judiciary Committee to kill a bill that would have made several changes to eviction filings and proceedings, including requiring judges to suppress court records. Sponsored by Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, House Bill 1047 would also have required landlords to provide tenants with an additional rent payment option […]
Small Business Admin. IG Testifies on Fraud in Small Business Relief Programs
Small Business Administration Inspector General William Kirk and Pandemic Response Accountability Committee Executive Director Kenneth Dieffenbach testify on fraud in small business relief programs before the Senate Small Business Committee.
Sources: NCAA football committee considering 7-figure fines, head coach suspensions for transfer violations
The NCAA Football Oversight Committee coalesced around several concepts related to the calendar and transfers, including a proposal to impose stiff penalties on schools that accept transfers outside of the portal window.
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 …
Casey Means faces the Senate health committee in a confirmation hearing to be U.S. surgeon general
NEW YORK — Dr. Casey Means, a wellness influencer, author and entrepreneur aligned with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his Make...
Casey Means faces Senate health committee in confirmation hearing for US surgeon general
Casey Means faces Senate committee in hearing to be U.S. surgeon general
Means will likely face questions about her qualifications and potential conflicts
Casey Means faces the Senate health committee in a confirmation hearing to be US surgeon general
NEW YORK (AP) — Dr. Casey Means, a wellness influencer, author and entrepreneur aligned with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his Make America Healthy Again movement, will appear before the…
Casey Means faces confirmation hearing to be US surgeon general
Wellness influencer and entrepreneur Dr. Casey Means is set to appear before the Senate health committee as she seeks approval to be U.S. surgeon general.
Trump’s pick for surgeon general, Casey Means, heads to Senate hearing months after maternity delay
A prominent voice in the “Make America Healthy Again” movement appears before a Senate committee this morning in a bid to become the nation’s top doctor.
Casey Means, Critic of Mainstream Medicine, May Become Nation’s Top Doctor
Dr. Means, a wellness influencer and President Trump’s nominee for surgeon general, will appear before a Senate committee Wednesday.
Scotland’s new emissions strategy ‘too reliant on science fiction’, critics say
UK Climate Change Committee voices concern over Scotland’s progress on decarbonising buildings and reliance on unproved technologies
Sean Payton: Last year's tush push opposition wasn't about health and safety
Broncos coach Sean Payton is back on the Competition Committee.
NFL admits controversial mistake regarding Steelers' Aaron Rodgers
The National Football League admitted there was a mistake involving Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers’ near interception in Week 14 against the Ravens.
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.
Carrie Ask appointed President and CEO of Wilson
Effective March 1, 2026, Carrie Ask has been appointed President & CEO of Wilson Sporting Goods, and a member of the Amer Sports Executive Committee.
More doctors voice concerns over Confluence Health cancer center
WENATCHEE — Two different open letters submitted by Confluence Health physicians and former leaders continue to raise concerns about the health system's planned cancer center.
House Science Committee takes on data center permitting
The panel will discuss barriers that may slow the development of infrastructure for artificial intelligence.
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
Readers respond: Shift city money for students, not sports
Letters to the Editor can be submitted to letters@oregonian.com with full name and place of residence.
More advanced maths students needed for tech sector: Hong Kong committee head
Government will review admission score calculation for some universities’ science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics programmes.
Why Norway is dominating the Winter Olympics and what could US learn
Norway’s director of elite sport sounded a little hoarse when he answered the phone to CNN Sports. Tore Øvebrø said he had just caught a cold, but he admitted that his raspy voice might also have something to do with his cheering over the last two weeks.
In a meeting Colorado GOP chair Brita Horn calls ‘illegal,’ Republicans vote to demand her resignation
Roughly half the membership of the Colorado Republican Party’s state central committee on Saturday voted overwhelmingly to approve a resolution expressing “no confidence” in state GOP Chairman Brita Horn’s leadership and calling for her immediate resignation in an online meeting Horn says wasn’t authorized and will have “zero impact.” The 250 Republican party officials who […]
Now scientists can hear when plants are saying ‘Ouch!’
Using AI, biologists have begun to decipher electrical distress signals that are emitted when pests strike
THON’s Entertainment Committee works to maintain fun, keep energy high
During THON Weekend, many acts take the stage, keeping it occupied the majority of the 46-hour event. These performances are decided on and coordinated by THON’s Entertainment Committee.
THON’s Entertainment Committee works to keep energy high, 'make people happy'
During THON Weekend, many acts take the stage, keeping it occupied the majority of the 46-hour event. These performances are decided on and coordinated by THON’s Entertainment Committee.
Colorado GOP officers set competing meetings to hold ‘no-confidence’ votes on state chair Brita Horn
Once again, members of the Colorado Republican Party’s central committee have scheduled separate, competing meetings to consider whether the state GOP’s governing body supports its chair, but this time neither meeting will be held under a bridge. State GOP Chair Brita Horn on Feb. 14 issued a formal call for an online meeting on March […]
Patriots part of new-look NFL competition committee
Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel is one of four new additions to the group.
Player Availability Report: #SJvSKC | Feb. 21, 2026
Player Availability Report is SportingKC.com’s look at the latest status updates around the team ahead of upcoming matches and is presented by Saint Luke’s. All details listed are from the league’s official Player Status Report that is submitted the day prior to the match. Sporting Kansas City opens the 2026
Roanoke business reacts to Supreme Court tariff ruling
Though the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that most of Trump's tariff policy is not permitted, it will take another year for a Roanoke business to see rising cost subside.
Bracketology: CBS Sports experts predict NCAA Tournament bracket before committee reveals early top 16 seeds
Our experts reveal their early top seeds for the NCAA Tournament on Saturday
Science Democrats Concerned Over Reports of Problematic NIST Policy for Foreign Researchers
The House Committee on Science, Space and Technology
Africa’s wealthiest billionaire commits $1 million to a scholarship fund for business graduates
Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has committed $1
Meta "Explicitly Separating" Horizon Worlds From Quest & Focusing On Third-Party Apps
Meta says it's "explicitly separating" Horizon Worlds from Quest, in a blog post assuring developers that it's committed to the VR ecosystem.
The College of Education and Human Sciences to honor 45 Seniors of Distinction
The College of Education and Human Sciences has recognized 45 students as 2026 Seniors of Distinction. The Student Affairs committee selects students each year who represent leadership; academic excellence and service; and have shown commitment to Oklahoma State University’s land-grant mission.
Migrants are not responsible for the UK’s healthcare crisis
They are not a burden on the NHS, but a vital part of how it functions.
Pitt softball’s Ahmari Braden started her own cosmetics business — and it may be a hit
Ahmari Braden does a little bit of everything for Pitt softball. Last season, she led the team in batting average at a career-best .315, committed only...