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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate DLC character Alopex now available alongside free update
Super Evil Megacorp has released Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate downloadable content character Alopex for XXX, as well as a free update that adds new rooms, arcade challenges, and ga…
Style and Politics: On “The National Security Strategy of the United States of America”
"We need to feel our culture, and history, and current system is better than all the others, while acting as though we don’t believe those things." The National Security Strategy of the United States of America may have its longest life as a particularly vivid example of the ways in which bad faith will always manifest in terrible prose,
Boomer Esiason rips ‘very attractive’ Olympic star: ‘She’s insufferable’
Olympic champion Eileen Gu is once again drawing criticism in the U.S. — this time from WFAN host Boomer Esiason.
Credit card surcharges rise as small businesses adapt
Businesses are changing how they accept payments, from credit card surcharges to going cashless. Find out why and how customers are reacting.
Trump cites health care issues in Greenland saying he’s sending a hospital ship. His claims are off
President Donald Trump said in a Truth Social post Saturday that he would deploy a hospital ship to Greenland, alleging many people there are sick and not receiving care, even though both of the…
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.
Trump cites health care issues in Greenland saying he’s sending a hospital ship. His claims are off
President Donald Trump has said the U.S. is sending a hospital ship to Greenland because people there are not getting care, but the claim faces pushback.
Inside the Growing Scientist Migration to Europe
For decades, the U.S. has attracted talented scientists from all over the world. That may be changing.
'Home Improvement' star Zachery Ty Bryan sentenced to 14 months in jail
Actor Zachery Ty Bryan was reportedly sentenced to over a year in prison Monday, following his arrest in 2024 for a DUI.
Self-defense company finds major benefits after moving manufacturing from overseas to US
Byrna Technologies CEO Bryan Ganz moved manufacturing from South Africa to Indiana before President Donald Trump's tariffs, saying the company "correctly surmised" onshoring benefits.
Tech’s politics push at home and abroad
We report from California’s Silicon Valley, where billionaires pour money into midterms, and the AI Impact summit, where India pushes back on ‘AI monopoly’ held by US and China
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.
Octavia Spencer Talks New Film 'Tow,' Prioritizing Her Health, More
Actor Octavia Spencer joins TODAY to talk about her new movie, “Tow,” with a star-studded cast, including Rose Byrne, Ariana DeBose and more. She also reflects on 14 years since winning an Oscar for her role in “The Help.” Then, she discusses living with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure and how she's raising awareness about the related risks and the importance of testing for early signs of kidney damage. (Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim)
Appleton area high school sports results for Monday, Feb. 23
High school basketball teams were in action.
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.
Can solar storms trigger earthquakes? Scientists propose surprising link
Scientists have proposed a surprising connection between solar flares and earthquakes. When solar activity disturbs the ionosphere, it may generate electric fields that penetrate fragile fracture zones in Earth’s crust. If a fault is already critically stressed, this extra electrostatic pressure could help trigger a quake. The idea doesn’t claim direct causation, but it offers a fresh way to think about how space weather and seismic events might interact.
New ranking highlights NIH’s impact on breakthrough science at Duke
Duke University School of Medicine received more than $514 million in research funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2025, ranking 9th nationally among medical schools, according to new data from the Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research
Cardinal Health report highlights cost savings and provider confidence in biosimilars
/PRNewswire/ -- Cardinal Health (NYSE: CAH) today released its 2026 Biosimilars Report: Driving access and patient outcomes in physician practices, which...
Alcohol Profoundly Changes The Way Your Brain Communicates, Study Finds
Even a small amount has a big impact.
Hotmail Founder Sabeer Bhatia Slams Dhurandhar: 'Watching Senseless Killings Is Not Entertainment'
Sabeer Bhatia expressed particular concern about the film's impact on younger audiences
Legislators seek to help businesses with changes to SC's ballooning jobless fund
For the first time since the Great Recession, SC’s Republican-controlled Legislature could enact major changes to the state unemployment system.
Early healthy eating shapes lifelong brain health, new research finds
Eating unhealthy foods early in life leaves lasting brain and feeding changes, but gut bacteria can help restore healthy eating, a new University College Cork (UCC) research study finds. A high-fat, high-sugar ...
Closed for business: Restaurants, childcare and others shutter shops amid major snowfall
Local economists said this year's winter has likely had a broader economic impact than in past years.
Interesting non-roster positional candidates at Yankees camp to watch
Paul DeJong, Braden Shewmake and Seth Brown are all longshots to make the active roster out of Yankees spring training.
Fat or Skinny Fat: Both Can Harm Your Health | Join the Anti-Obesity Health Base: Outsmart the Obesity Threat Together
Hong Kong is a world-renowned food paradise, offering everything from local snacks like fish balls and egg waffles to Michelin-starred culinary experiences. However, maintaining a healthy weight amidst fast-paced lifestyles, high pressure, and even genetic factors has become a relentless battle. Excessive fat accumulation poses significant health risks, and even those with a seemingly slender physique can fall into the trap of obesity. Today, obesity is no longer just a cosmetic concern; it is c
Robert Carradine, actor in ‘Revenge of the Nerds’ and ‘Lizzie McGuire,’ dies at 71
Robert Carradine, the actor known for his roles in “The Long Riders,” “Revenge of the Nerds” and the television series “Lizzie McGuire,” has died at 71, according to his management company.
Can trash be good for the environment? The science of artificial reefs
Helicopters. Cargo containers. Old washing machines. For years, fishermen dumped this waste into the Gulf of Mexico. But they weren’t just trying to get rid of junk; they were trying to create artificial reefs that would help attract fish. For this month’s Nature Quest, WWNO coastal reporter Eva Tesfaye takes a (metaphorical) dive into the gulf to find out if Alabama’s ocean junkyard is an economic – and environmental – solution.This episode is part of Nature Quest, our monthly segment that brings you a question from a Short Waver who is noticing a change in the world around them.Send a voice memo to shortwave@npr.org telling us your name, location and a question about a change you're seeing in nature – it could be our next Nature Quest episode!Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.
MTU Aero Engines Expects Commercial Business to Boost 2026 Revenue
The aircraft-engine manufacturer forecasts higher revenue this year with particularly strong gains in its commercial series business.
Houston’s Kelvin Sampson reacts to getting humbled by tough schedule
Houston coach Kelvin Sampson gave proper credit to Kansas after their much-anticipated matchup at Allen Fieldhouse on Monday.
Arizona Cardinals WR Marvin Harrison Jr. 2026 offseason profile
A look at receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.'s season, his contract and what to expect in the offseason.
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.
Ireland Contracting Nightly Sports Call: Feb. 23, 2026
COUNTERPOINT: Don’t Let Politics Destroy Honest Delivery Businesses - Streetsblog New York City
The Delivery Protection Act could destroy my small business.
COUNTERPOINT: Don’t Let Politics Destroy Honest Delivery Businesses - Streetsblog New York City
The Delivery Protection Act could destroy my small business.
Supreme Court ruling on tariffs leaves uncertainty for Cincinnati businesses, economists say
A local coffee roaster and University of Cincinnati economist explain how shifting trade policies could impact prices and planning across Ohio.
NFL WR, Rondale Moore, dies at 25- social media reacts
Rest in Peace, Rondale Moore (2000-2026).
Warren: Trump ‘all talk and no action’ on capping credit card rates
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Dr. Cliff Moore, the chief medical officer at Women’s Hospital, holds the two Cardiotocography monitors that are currently used during delivery to monitor the heat rate and contractions on Monday,
How Antonio Gibson’s release impacts Patriots in 2026 offseason
Taking a closer look at the Patriots' decision to release veteran running back Antonio Gibson.
In earnings call, Hims CEO addresses scrutiny of GLP-1 compounding
In earnings call, Hims & Hers CEO Andrew Dudum addressed the increased scrutiny on compounded GLP-1s and its impact on the business’s bottom line.
Trump says he's kept all of his campaign promises. PolitiFact's MAGA-Meter shows otherwise
President Donald Trump has said he already delivered on all he returned to office to do. The truth? Trump fulfilled a decent chunk of his domestic agenda in his first year, but many promises remain undelivered.
Jill Basinger Joins Stris & Maher To Lead Media, Entertainment & Sports Practice
Jill Basinger has joined Stris & Maher LLP as a partner to lead its Media, Entertainment and Sports Litigation practice from the firm's Los Angeles office.
Millionaires Tax faces Tuesday hearing, questions about pro sports impact
Some have warned the tax could have ripple effects on Seattle’s professional sports teams — and on any effort to bring the NBA back to the city.
Millionaires Tax faces Tuesday hearing, questions about pro sports impact
Some have warned the tax could have ripple effects on Seattle’s professional sports teams — and on any effort to bring the NBA back to the city.
Mike Gianaris discusses solidifying Democratic control of the N.Y. state Senate
A smart political tactician, Gianaris was integral in helping lead the Senate Democrats out of the political wilderness in 2018.
Source: WNBA floats March 10 CBA deadline to avoid impact to 2026 season
Meet 5 UC San Diego Artists Bridging Creativity, Science and Technology
Once a year, campus and community are invited to explore the research and artistic practice of 25+ MFA and Ph.D. students. The 2026 Graduate Open Studios runs 2–6 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Visual Arts Facility and SME Gallery. Meet five students students shaping this year's work.
Shrouded Sky - Patch Notes 1.17.0
ARC Raiders is a multiplayer extraction adventure, set in a lethal future earth, ravaged by a mysterious mechanized threat known as ARC.
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.
Local Aerospace Manufacturer Expanding Business, Seeking Employees
Aerospace manufacturer, Turbo Machined Products, is expanding its product line. That means more jobs in Frankfort.
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.
Buffalo Bills re-sign DT Phidarian Mathis
Mathis and the Bills agreed to a one-year contract ahead of the 2026 NFL season
Adolescent Social Health May Foretell Loneliness, Aggressive Behavior, Study Suggests
Teens who are lonely and those who experience conflict in their home life are more likely to act aggressively toward peers or become victims themselves. These are some of the findings in a new University of California, Davis, study that creates a detailed picture of children’s social lives by identifying patterns and predictors of adolescent social health.
Adolescent social health may foretell loneliness and aggressive behavior
Teens who are lonely and those who experience conflict in their home life are more likely to act aggressively toward peers or become victims themselves. These are some of the findings in a new University ...
‘A Long Speech’: Trump Prepares for State of the Union
President Trump does not like to practice reading the speech out loud, but he spent time mimicking the setup of the House chamber, officials familiar with his plans said.
Fact-check: Do chronic illnesses account for 90% of U.S. health care spending?
A federal government campaign that encourages Americans to avoid processed foods claims that "90% of U.S. healthcare spending goes to treating chronic disease — much of which is linked to diet and lifestyle."
I-TEAM: 15K lawsuits targeting businesses for being non-ADA compliant for websites
They all surround the Americans with Disabilities Act and the ability of blind people to access websites they have the legal right to use.
Seaport Entertainment Group Announces Lease With Balloon Museum to Transform Historic Tin Building Into a New Cultural Destination
NEW YORK, February 23, 2026--Seaport Entertainment Group Inc. (NYSE: SEG) ("Seaport Entertainment Group" or "SEG") and Lux Entertainment today announced that Balloon Museum, the award-winning contemporary art format, will open at the Tin Building in Summer 2026. The Tin Building will serve as the Balloon Museum’s U.S. flagship, enriching the cultural landscape in the Seaport neighborhood by offering a community-oriented, experiential art destination designed to attract visitors of all ages.
Unequal Access to Nature Fuels America’s Health Crisis
Communities of color and low-income neighborhoods face the worst impacts as the U.S. loses forests, wetlands and other green spaces.
How have you been affected by tariffs?
During the past year, President Donald Trump has imposed sweeping and steep tariffs on most imported goods with the intent to reduce trade deficits and bolster US-based manufacturing.
Astronomy Activation Ambassadors: Embracing Multiple Perspectives
The Astronomy Activation Ambassadors (AAA) project, part of the NASA Science Activation program, aims to measurably enhance student STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics) engagement via middle school, high school, and community college science teacher professional development.
Earliest known writing dates back over 40,000 years
Stone Age artifacts in Germany are editing writing's timeline.
Business Organizations React To SCOTUS Ruling On Tariffs
Business organizations across the political spectrum from conservative to progressive are in general agreement with the Supreme Court ruling on Friday on tariffs.
5 best small business credit cards for perks you’ll actually use in 2026
From lounge access to credits on tech purchases, these credit cards have your business covered.
Johnson Will Bring Daughter of Jimmy Lai to State of the Union Address
Her appearance underscores that “America is determined” to secure the release of the Hong Kong democracy activist, Speaker Mike Johnson said.
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.
Democrats demanding ICE reforms lose airport escorts in shutdown they triggered
The government shutdown hit TSA operations as the Department of Homeland Security activated emergency measures and suspended congressional escorts while keeping PreCheck operational.
Crews, business owners work to make roads, sidewalks passable in Roxborough
Action News reporter Leland Pinder is in Roxborough, where city crews and business owners are working to clear the snow.
No. 11 Virginia streaks into clash with NC State
No. 11 Virginia is seeking its longest winning streak since the 2018-19 national championship season when it hosts NC State in Atlantic Coast Conference action Tuesday night in Charlottesville, Va.
AbbVie to invest $380 million to expand US manufacturing in Illinois
AbbVie on Monday said it would invest $380 million to build two new active pharmaceutical ingredient manufacturing facilities at its Illinois campus, expanding its domestic production capacity for its neuroscience and obesity medicines.
T-Mobile for Business Offers Up to $1,100 Off the iPhone 17 Pro With SuperMobile Activation
Switch your business plan to T-Mobile for Business and save up to $1,100 with a trade-in when you activate on SuperMobile.
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.
Live updates: Trump leaves tariff refunds to the courts as he mulls military action in Iran
Could this be the most impactful year ever in Seattle sports?
Seattle has an incredibly rich history across all sports over the last century-plus.
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.
Trump’s Ominous Netflix Threat Could Impact Warner Deal
Plus, why the tariffs haven’t cut the U.S. trade deficit, and what we can expect when the government releases its UFO files
Scientists reverse muscle aging in mice and discover a surprising catch
A UCLA study in mice reveals that aging muscle stem cells accumulate a protein that slows repair but boosts survival. This protein, NDRG1, acts like a brake, preventing cells from activating quickly after injury. When researchers blocked it in older mice, muscle healing sped up dramatically — but stem cells became less resilient over time. The work suggests aging may reflect a survival trade-off rather than straightforward decline.
Heroes of Science and Fiction resurrects Heroes of Might and Magic-style strategy battles
Factions wage war over a distant galaxy until only one remains in this modern take on Heroes of Might and Magic's classic mechanics.
Carolina Celebrates Successful National Girls & Women in Sports Day - University of North Carolina Athletics
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – Carolina Athletics spotlighted National Girls & Women in Sports Day on Sunday morning, hosted at the Bill Koman Practice Complex. The ann...
From investment to impact: The Cigna Group Foundation health equity investments deliver early results in Houston and Hartford
The Cigna Group Foundation’s Health Equity Impact Fund engaged more than 117,000 community members in first year.
Little Fish, Big Decisions: How Science Guides Actions in the Delta
California’s water system is one of the most complex and important in the world. It delivers water to millions of people across the state and supports ecosystems that are vital to California’s environmental health.
When it comes to health insurance, federal dollars support more than ACA plans
Subsidies. Love ’em or hate them, they dominated the news during the Affordable Care Act’s sign-up season, and their reduction is now hitting many enrollees in the pocketbook.
Spring Sports, Activities Get Underway
AURORA - Practice for 2026 spring sports and activities may officially begin today for high schools across the state of Colorado.
No one in health care should be called a ‘provider’
The word “provider” in health care turns the relationship between patient and physician into a commercial transaction, argues the American College of Physicians.
PBM reforms promise relief for NC’s independent pharmacies
Federal and state actions seek transparency and fair reimbursements from pharmacy benefit managers, as rural communities lose local drugstores.
Like Trump nationally, incumbent Colorado Dems lose sight of what matters to everyday people
My years as a high-level radioactive waste manager took me in and out of Washington, D.C. frequently during the 1990s. Following Newt Gingrich’s successful 1994 ouster of the Democratic majority in Congress, following their 40-year reign, I was surprised many Democratic lobbyists were willing to acknowledge privately Newt’s win was probably a good thing. There […]
In health care’s defining moment, AMA helps drive positive change
Building on eight major wins in the federal budget deal, doctors gather for the AMA National Advocacy Conference in Washington to reshape medicine.
Hicks Commentary: Quality of Life Is a Smart Business Attraction Tool
This column was originally published on the Ball State University Center for Business and Economic Research Weekly Commentary blog. By Michael J. Hicks February 22, 2026 Quality of life matters more to businesses than it does to households. That may seem counterintuitive, but the data are unambiguous and the implications for economic development are profound.
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 […]
Breaking down USA's win vs. Canada in the Olympics | Ireland Contracting Nightly Sports Call (2/21)
Arizona Cardinals RB Michael Carter 2026 offseason profile
A look at running back Michael Carter's season, his contract and what to expect in the offseason.
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.
No. 14 Virginia streaks into clash with NC State
No. 14 Virginia is seeking its longest winning streak since the 2018-19 national championship season when it hosts NC State in Atlantic Coast Conference action Tuesday night in Charlottesville, Va.
Zimbabwe rolls out long-acting HIV drug, among first countries to do so
Zimbabwe, where HIV has led to tens of thousands of deaths over the past two decades, is one of the first countries to roll out lenacapavir, a long-acting drug that authorities hope will slow new infections.
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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