SCROLL NEWS / DISCOVERY
Search headlines
Find the stories shaping the conversation.
Results for " wes " 6,719 found 🔀 AI-powered Shuffle
Politics and Agricuture - AG INFORMATION NETWORK OF THE WEST
From labor reform to the rising cost of growing our food, politics isn’t helping to fix the crisis agriculture is facing.
Entertainment and more in the Mid-Ohio Valley
PARKERSBURG — The Artsbridge calendar of events for this week: TODAY * Geppetto Woodcarver’s Wood Quilt on display, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., WesBanco, Market Street, Parkersburg * Art is Life/ Life is Art, ages 55+ 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Parkersburg Art Center * Lunch and Learn Lecture with the Belpre Tree Commission, noon […]
Sporting JAX announces St. Johns Town location for stadium, new sports, entertainment district
Sporting JAX, the area’s newest professional sports franchise, took the wraps off its much-anticipated stadium plans on Monday, announcing that the soccer club will plant its permanent home in the St. Johns Town Center area. Billed as a “transformative mixed-use sporting and entertainment district,” the hub will feature everything from residences, retail and entertainment. The crown jewel is the 15,000-seat stadium that will serve as home to the women’s and men’s club.
Developer breaks ground on entertainment hub in Las Vegas’ historic Westside
A developer has broken ground on a new entertainment and community space in Las Vegas’ historic Westside, with a focus on local vendors and small business growth.
College of Business Students Drive Real Impact Through Google Nonprofit Marketing Immersion Program
Experiential learning at Purdue University Northwest’s College of Business is intentionally embedded within the curriculum.
Western Montana U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke said he won’t seek reelection citing health problems
Dr. Al Olszewski said he plans to run as a Republican in the Western District
NBA power rankings: Is a new contender emerging out West?
The Minnesota Timberwolves have won six of their last seven games, and Anthony Edwards is excelling as both a scorer and a passer during this stretch.
‘Transformative’: Sporting JAX announces new soccer home, stadium in Town Center area
Sporting JAX, the area’s newest professional sports franchise, took the wraps off its much-anticipated stadium plans on Monday, announcing that the soccer club will plant its permanent home in the Town Center area.
WVU drives health care in Mountain State
The University’s impact on health care statewide is highlighted in the latest issue of West Virginia Executive.
McKinsey's newest partners share their tips for success
McKinsey & Company named 224 new partners in November, one of its smallest classes in years. We asked them to share their tips for success.
What to watch for in Western Pa. sports for March 2, 2026: Seneca Valley begins title defense
A new month gets the ball, err … the puck rolling on the start of another winter sports postseason.
‘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...
What cost foreign prestige? China says no to some Western science journal fees
Chinese researchers will no longer be reimbursed for paper publication charges in Nature Communications, among others.
Starwatch: Venus to meet Saturn in evening twilight
Look west after sunset this week to see the pair converge in the dusk, closing in on a near-conjunction on 8 March
EXCLUSIVE, Cox Science Center in West Palm Beach names new CEO
Former Mississippi Aquarium CEO and president Kurt Allen will start his tenure as head of the Cox Science Center and Aquarium on March 9 in West Palm Beach.
Motorola Razr Fold hands-on at MWC 2026: Bright screens, inside and out
Motorola made both screens on its newest foldable brighter than any of its rivals by quite a margin.
Made in Tarrant: Paragon Sports stands out in the field. In fact, they likely built it
The company that provides fields, courts and tracks is running up the score with employees at bat.
3 Seattle Mariners who hitting coach Seitzer is high on
Seattle Mariners hitting coach Kevin Seitzer thinks Julio Rodríguez will leave his slow starts behind, and is impressed by two up and coming hitters.
Israel bombing vintage US-made fighter jets in Iran
Video footage shows the Israel Defense Forces striking two F-4 and F-5 fighters before they took off from an airport in western Iran.
Guinea, US Sign $143 Million MOU To Boost Health Over Five Years
Guinea has signed a $143 million memorandum of understanding with the US to boost health systems in the West African nation, Finance Minister Mariama Ciré Sylla said in a video posted on Facebook.
Liverpool star talks importance of Champions League qualification
Mac Allister’s clarity sparks Liverpool surge after West Ham statement winLiverpool’s 5-2 dismantling of West Ham felt less like a routine Premier League victory and more like a declaration that A...
Launching a business in Central Iowa: What it takes, who can help
DES MOINES, Iowa — Starting a business can be overwhelming — especially for first-time founders. WHO 13’s Lisa Carponelli sits down with Zach Veigulis, co-founder of West Des Moines tech startup Claim...
Boston pledges millions to tackle alarming racial health disparities
Black men had the lowest life expectancy of any major demographic group at 72 years, more than nine years lower than men of other racial groups.
Man shot dead outside business in Southwest Houston
A man was shot and killed outside a business in the 11400 block of Bissonnet Street, southwest Houston, on Friday night. Police responded to a shooting call at around 10:30 p.m. and found the deceased man in the parking lot. Details about the victim or suspect are currently unavailable, and the Houston Police Department Homicide division is investigating.
Liverpool 5-2 West Ham: Hugo Ekitike shines as Reds show off new set-play prowess in important win
Southwest announces new changes in email to A-List Members
Southwest Airlines sent an email to it’s A-List members, talking about new policy changes as the airline recently changed open seating to assigned seating.
A major climate hope in Antarctica just melted away
A popular climate theory suggested that melting Antarctic glaciers would release iron into the ocean, sparking algae blooms that pull carbon dioxide from the air. New field data from West Antarctica reveal that meltwater provides far less iron than scientists once believed. Instead, most of the iron comes from deep ocean water and sediments, not from the melting ice itself. The discovery raises new questions about how Antarctica influences climate change.
The club that brought flair and speed to rugby
Created in the 1970s, Reading West Indians RUFC went on to inspire generations of black players.
10 Years of Building Business Dreams for Indigenous Women
Women travel from tribal communities across Arizona and the Southwest carrying business plans, lived experience and ambition. Project DreamCatcher is a free, culturally grounded business education pro...
Last-second heroics keep No. 21 Miami unbeaten
Trey Perry’s basket with 0.4 seconds helped Miami complete a 69-67 come-from-behind win over West Michigan.
Pelicans displaying progress entering rematch vs. Jazz
The New Orleans Pelicans remain near the bottom of the Western Conference standings, but they're making progress.
From a Conversation to an Economic Boom
In the Fall of 2018 Greenville native and writer, Julia Reed, called me from New Orleans. She had run into the producers of the hit Netflix food and travel show “Somebody Feed Phil”. They were interested in shooting an episode in the Delta and she was helping them location scout. In 2019 they did come […]
Ulster County starts foreclosure proceedings on 2 iPark 87 West parcels
The Ulster County Economic Development Alliance (UCEDA) board voted Friday to start foreclosure proceedings, county Executive Jen Metzger said.
BigXthaPlug And 600 Entertainment Make Noise For Texas With “6WA”
The Dallas rapper and his crew represent their home state and salute the West Coast on the first single from their upcoming mixtape of the same name
Mission Health lifts flu-related visitation limits, citing decrease in cases
Mission Health has lifted all flu-related visitor restrictions across its hospitals and affiliated facilities in western North Carolina.
Oregon, Northwestern each peaking down the stretch
Saturday's game between Oregon and Northwestern in Evanston, Ill., might not look to be an especially significant game given that neither team is particularly close to the NCAA Tournament bubble.
Colorado health officials warn of measles exposure at locations in several Denver-area cities
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is warning the public after a resident who visited locations in Broomfield, Lafayette, Louisville and Westminster was confirmed to have measles.
'The Vampire Diaries' alum Paul Wesley lands role on season 3 of Apple TV's hit historical series
'The Vampire Diaries' alum Paul Wesley is hanging up his 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' tunic for a new, mysterious role in the upcoming season of Apple TV's hit historical series.
Where Seattle Mariners stand on a Logan Gilbert contract
"We would love to do something with Logan long-term," Seattle Mariners GM Justin Hollander said of the contract situation with Logan Gilbert.
BigXthaPlug and 600 Entertainment Make Noise for Texas With ‘6WA’
The Dallas rapper and his crew represent their home state and salute the West Coast on the first single from their upcoming mixtape of the same name
BigXthaPlug and 600 Entertainment Rep Texas With '6WA'
BigXthaPlug and his 600 Entertainment crew are representing Texas and saluting West Coast legends with their new mixtape and single
Trump teases endorsement-hungry Senate GOP candidates with Texas visit
President Donald Trump has so far declined to endorse in the Texas GOP primary race between Sen. John Cornyn, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and US Rep. Wesley Hunt.
Moore demands Trump tariff reimbursements for Maryland consumers, businesses
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) is demanding reimbursements for his state’s consumers and businesses after the Supreme Court shot down a majority of the Trump administration’s tariffs last week. …
Home Entertainment Guide February 2026: "Predator: Badlands," "Song Song Blue," "A Little Prayer," More
The newest stuff on physical media, including Criterion releases of "3:10 to Yuma," "A Woman Under the Influence," and "The Man Who Wasn't There".
Science is political
In my very first biology class here at Case Western Reserve University, we covered a brief history of evolutionary science. During this lecture, we learned about Aristotle and his form of evolutionary thinking, which is a simple ranking of all living organisms. This was dubbed the scala naturae, or the “Great Chain of Being,” and...
Golfer William Hudson of St. John Bosco wins Servite Invitational
The latest top athlete from St. John Bosco shot a 71 at Western Hills Country Club in Chino Hills to claim the title.
Hannah Spencer: Plumber becomes Green Party's new MP
Spencer marked her victory by apologising to customers for potentially having to cancel work due to her Westminster move.
Slot on team fitness, Salah's drought and Ngumoha's improvement
Liverpool boss Arne Slot has been speaking to the media before Saturday's Premier League game against West Ham at Anfield (kick-off 15:00 GMT). Jeremie Frimpong has trained "a few times this week" so is available to face West Ham. Florian Wirtz remains sidelined with an injury which he described as "a disappointment for him and for us".
Pound Hits Two-Month Low Versus Euro as UK Politics Spurs Hedges
The pound fell to its lowest level against the euro in more than two months and traders paid for protection against further losses after a special election in Manchester signaled trouble ahead for the governing Labour Party.
Pokémon Continues 30th Celebrations with the Unveiling of <em>Pokémon Winds</em> and <em>Pokémon Waves</em>, the Newest Entries in the Pokémon Video Game Series<br />
Pokémon Day Video Presentation Packed with New Updates Across the Franchise, Including PokémonXP and the 2026 Pokémon World Championships, Pokémon Champions, the Pokémon Trading Card Game and More Pokémon FireRed Version and LeafGreen Version Released Today in Commemoration of the Original Pokémon Video Games
Spurs win 11th straight, finishing off undefeated February and closing in on Thunder for West's best record
Small business owner reacts to West Virginia’s First Law of 2026
BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) — The first West Virginia law of 2026 was signed by Governor Patrick Morrisey on Monday, February 23, 2026. The Small Business Growth Act is designed to bring in private investments...
Clinica Sierra Vista opens new health center on Brimhall Road
Clinica Sierra Vista opened a new health center in Bakersfield on Thursday, marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony held in the afternoon in northwest Bakersfield.
Justice Department Sues 5 States, Most Republican-Led, for Voter Data
The Trump administration sued Utah, Oklahoma and West Virginia, as well as Kentucky and West Virginia, to obtain unredacted voter registration databases in pursuit of baseless claims of voter fraud.
RedHawks Clash With WMU on CBS Sports Network Friday Night
FRIDAY: The RedHawks continue their road trip at Western Michigan Friday, Feb. 27 at 6 p.m. on CBS Sports Network. The Red and White enter this Friday's game...
Latest Calif. governor's poll brings 5 candidates to top of ticket
Three Democrats and two Republicans are tied in the newest governor's race poll.
'K-Pops!' review: Anderson .Paak's cultural duet is a solo act
Grammy-laden musician Anderson .Paak makes his directing debut in an East-meets-West movie about a K-pop competition show on which his son is a contestant.
Two unique new MacBook Pros are launching this year, starting next week
Apple will launch its newest MacBook Pro next week with M5, and there’s another distinct model coming later this year with M6.
Stephany Insurance LLC Recognized as Leading Commercial Insurance Expert in Wexford PA by Small Business Trendsetter
Wexford, Pennsylvania, Feb. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stephany Insurance LLC, a leading independent insurance agency and commercial insurance...
Wesley Hunt is facing attacks from better-known rivals Cornyn, Paxton in Texas' GOP Senate primary
Texas U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt’s rivals are increasing their attacks on the two-term Republican ahead of Tuesday’s GOP primary for U.S. Senate
Political Candidates and the Troubling Chill Factor
Whether it’s political polarization, ruthless social media or federal interference, this is a particularly tough time to be in elected office in a city or a state.
Celtics five-game winning streak snapped by Denver Nuggets
The Boston Celtics ended their West Coast road trip with a loss to the Denver Nuggets, which would snap their five-game winning streak.
Regional Director’s return to Samoa centres on science and collaboration for health
The WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, returned to Samoa in February 2026 for a three-day visit to discuss science, partnership, and how to strengthen health for all in the Pacific.
Lakota West stays atop the final boys basketball power rankings.
Here are The Enquirer's top 10 boys basketball teams in Greater Cincinnati entering the postseason.
LA’s program that diverts mental health crisis calls away from police becomes permanent
Since launching in 2024, the Unarmed Model of Crisis Response has diverted some 17,000 calls away from police and other first responders.
Seattle Mariners' Naylor greets history-making umpire
Seattle Mariners first baseman Josh Naylor talked about the nice moment Tuesday when he greeted Jen Pawol, the first female umpire in MLB history.
Strengthening Western Hemisphere Health Security Through the America First Global Health Strategy in Panama - United States Department of State
Today, the United States and the Republic of Panama signed a three-year bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that advances the America First Global Health Strategy while defending Americans against infectious disease threats and accelerating Panama’s progress toward sustainable, country-led health systems. This partnership between the United States and Panama is the first global […]
Spotify's newest feature makes playlists sound better
There’s some serious competition happening right now between music streaming services to make transitions between songs sound better. Spotify’s new...
Hall among leaders honored with West Virginia Leadership Business awards
Joshua Hall, Milan Puskar Dean of the John Chambers College of Business and Economics, is the recipient of The State Journal’s inaugural West Virginia Business Leadership award for Chief Operating Officer of a Medium-Sized Business.
National Bank Beats Estimates as CWB Boosts Major Business Lines
National Bank of Canada beat analyst estimates in its fiscal first quarter after it reported stronger results across the board, boosted by the bank’s purchase of Canadian Western Bank.
Pacific leaders gather in Hawaii for business summit
Leaders from Pacific Island nations and territories gathered this week at the East-West Center in Manoa for an inaugural diplomatic and business summit aimed at promoting private sector investments and contracts across island communities in Oceania.
USC routed by UCLA as tournament hopes fade
WESTWOOD – There are losses that sting, and then there are losses that linger.
Aston Martin releases new higher-performing Vantage S super sports car
Meet the newest aspirational ride from Aston Martin: the 2026 Vantage S.
Live updates: Celtics, Suns facing off in Phoenix
The Celtics hope to stay perfect on their West Coast road trip when they take on the Suns. Follow our live blog for updates throughout Tuesday's game.
Wrestling Legend Douglas Dies At 83
WEST LIBERTY — West Liberty University and the wrestling community are mourning the loss of one of the sport’s most transformative figures. Bobby Douglas — a trailblazer, champion, Olympian and Hall of Fame coach — passed away on February 24, 2026. He was 83. Born March 27, 1942, Douglas turned a fledgling West Liberty wrestling […]
West Seattle businesses voice concerns over proposed RV safe lot, tiny home village
Doubts are running deep among a group of businesses in West Seattle where a combined RV safe parking lot and tiny house village could soon open as part of the c
Mpls Fed survey: Upper Midwest businesses report falling profits, tariff uncertainty
A survey of businesses by the Minneapolis Fed shows profits are down across the Upper Midwest and many blame government policies such as tariffs.
Funeral services announced for Wes Rucker, Knoxville sports journalist killed in crash
The funeral honoring Wes Rucker, the 43-year-old Knoxville sports journalist who died in a crash last week, will be held Wednesday at 3 p.m.
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
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.
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 […]
Mortgage rates are back below 6%, the lowest since 2022
A stock-market sell-off sent investors into bonds, lowering Treasury yields and dragging mortgage rates down.
The Garmin smartwatch most people should buy is now down to its lowest price
Fitness-focused and feature packed
Special election could delay large Greeley entertainment district development
Voters in Greeley will decide Tuesday whether to repeal already-approved zoning for a massive entertainment district and housing development on the city’s western edge. The proposed development spans...
Indiana moves on to crucial closing stretch, starting vs. Northwestern
Indiana forward Tucker DeVries described the Hoosiers' last four regular-season games as "massive for us trying to make that NCAA Tournament."
Vt. business blames Trump tariffs for first layoffs in nearly 50 years
A Westford business says the president's tariffs drove sales down and forced layoffs.
Apple’s newest AirTags are already on sale if you’re looking to upgrade
How does five AirTags for the price of four sound?
Community Health Northwest Florida's 12th Ave Pediatrics location reopens
PENSACOLA, Florida – Community Health Northwest Florida’s 12th Avenue Pediatrics location reopened to patients on February 23, 2026 — 10 weeks after a pickup tr
NFL Films to premiere ‘The Football Town,’ a doc on the sport’s legacy in Western Pa.
Ahead of the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh this April, a new NFL Films documentary will tell the story of how Pittsburgh’s gritty, blue-collar culture...
Federal funding freeze stalls growth for Western Pennsylvania small businesses
Despite a push from the Trump administration to unleash American competitiveness, Congress has failed to reauthorize the nation’s largest innovation...
Shedeur Sanders Receives Major Praise From Fellow Browns' Rookie
Cleveland Browns standout linebacker Carson Schwesinger heaps praise on fellow rookie Sheduer Sanders
A product manager on why Chinese AI products are different
An AI product manager who worked at a Chinese tech giant explains what makes Chinese AI different from the West.
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
Australia news live: health warning as measles spreads in Melbourne; flash floods cut east-west rail link
Follow live
Modern parenting means apps for sports, school and more. What this means for data privacy
For every aspect of a student’s life, there’s a tech company trying to digitize it.
Will China be able to poach scientists from the West?
It’s too early to call it a brain drain. But researchers who have made the move say the China offered them opportunities to take their work in new directions.
Sisters open Aroostook’s newest health drink cafe
Kassi and Amanda McGary bought Epic Vibes in Houlton in December and celebrated their grand opening in late January.