SCROLL NEWS / DISCOVERY
Search headlines
Find the stories shaping the conversation.
Results for " ali " 76,741 found 🔀 AI-powered Shuffle
Apple’s newest AirTags are already on sale if you’re looking to upgrade
How does five AirTags for the price of four sound?
Farage kicks things off before 30 minutes of hate – and has the final word
Reform’s ‘shadow home secretary’, Zia Yusuf, launches tirade of misery that sounded more hardline and deranged as it went
Amtrak California Zephyr: Tour my $2,200 bedroom on the 53-hour train
I traveled comfortably on Amtrak's California Zephyr in a private bedroom for $2,200. It was worth the price for the longest train ride in the US.
Spring sports roundup: Pelham edges McGill-Toolen in wild walk-off fashion
Check out the highlights from high-school spring sports from this weekend.
Americans sour on Trump ahead of State of the Union, polls find
New polls show the president’s approval rating falling among Democrats and independents, though it remains strong among Republicans.
Prior authorization is a top health care burden, KFF poll finds
About 32% of Americans say prior authorization requirements are a major burden, more than billing confusion or finding appointments, according to the January 2026 survey.
THE WEEK OF FEB 23, 2026
- NSF director nominee announced - Confusion over NIST foreign researcher policies - Science Republicans reviewing AI laws
The creators of Dark Sky have a new weather app that shares multiple predictions
Acme Weather embraces the idea that forecasts are never 100 percent accurate.
Citi nears Banamex stake sale to investor group including Blackstone, Bloomberg News reports
Citigroup is nearing a deal to sell a 24% stake in its Mexican retail bank Grupo Financiero Banamex to a group of investors that includes Blackstone , Bloomberg News reported on Monday, citing people familiar with the matter.
Major changes to the Send system - can the government win over MPs and parents?
Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey discuss the government’s long-awaited plans for the special educational needs and disabilities system
This diet beat out 5 others as the best for bolstering brain health...
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.
Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 4 Pro will support head-shaking gestures, lacks case speaker
Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Buds 4 Pro will take at least one page out of Apple's playbook, but that rumored case speaker seems to be missing.
No business like snow business: blizzard shuts down the north-east US
As another major storm brings to the area up to 2ft of snow, people brave the weather to commute and shovel
Alex Padilla Plans Spanish Rebuttal to Trump’s State of the Union
Senator Alex Padilla, a Democrat from California, offered a preview of his remarks, which he expects to focus on the economy, immigration and fair elections.
Nationwide recall issued for popular supplement, consumer health risk: Return ASAP
The product is being recalled because it contains a higher level of a potent compound than is listed on the label, which poses a health risk.
Matt Maiocco's NFL mock draft 1.0: 49ers select Missouri defensive end Zion Young with pick No. 27
Here is who NBC Sports Bay Area's Matt Maiocco has the San Francisco 49ers selecting in the first edition of his 2026 NFL mock draft.
APPLY: Local Business Journalism Fellowship
Apply to NPF’s Local Business Journalism Fellowship, scheduled for April 26-29, 2026 in Washington, D.C., by March 23.
McClaren Institute for Health and Quality of Life prepares for reopening by summer 2026
The McClaren Institute for Health and Quality of Life honors the life and legacy of Dr. Edward E. McClaren.
Armed man killed at Mar-a-Lago never interested in politics or guns: Cousin
The 21-year-old North Carolina man who drove onto President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort with a shotgun before he was shot and killed worked as a golf course groundskeeper and sold illustrations of golf courses. Braeden Fields, a cousin who grew up with Austin Tucker Martin says he never talked about politics and seemed afraid of guns. Fields told The Associated Press that he has no idea why his cousin would do this. Authorities say Martin drove through a gate at Mar-a-Lago in Florida early Sunday and raised a shotgun when confronted by law enforcement, who opened fire. Trump was at the White House at the time.
Mz. Shyneka gives the latest in entertainment headlines
Reality TV is making headlines as Snookie revealed a new diagnosis, and former America's Next Top Model want reality TV laws. Plus, "Sinners" makes history at the Bafta awards
Trump Organization signs deal for billion-dollar skyscraper on Australia's Gold Coast
The Trump Organization announced a $1 billion project in Australia this week, building a 91-floor luxury resort and apartments on the Gold Coast.
The Crossword, Feb. 23: It's An Art, Not A Science (Themeless)
It’s time to wrap up the month with a challenging themeless. Keep an eye out for tricky clues and fun wordplay. This week’s puzzle was constructed by Kelsey Dixon and Alex Boisvert, and edited by Hoang-Kim Vu. Alex is a crossword constructor from California who is so uncomfortable writing anything positive about himself that he wanted to do…
This Gen Zer skipped university and built a six-figure dog walking business
As AI threatens entry-level jobs, some young people are starting their own businesses.
New ‘Acme Weather’ app from Dark Sky creators wants to fix weather apps’ biggest problem
The team behind Dark Sky is back with a new weather app for iPhone called “Acme Weather.” One of the...
Meta Director of AI Safety Allows AI Agent to Accidentally Delete Her Inbox
Meta Superintelligence Labs’ director of alignment called it a “rookie mistake.”
Quantum computers go high-dimensional with a four-state photon gate
The collaboration of TU Wien with research groups in China has resulted in a crucial building block for a new kind of quantum computer: The realization of a novel type of quantum logic gate makes it possible ...
AMC Entertainment beats revenue estimates as box office recovers
AMC Entertainment beat Wall Street expectations for fourth-quarter revenue on Monday, offering a sign of confidence in the slow recovery of cinema traffic from pandemic-era lows.
Tyrese Haliburton dealing with 'very painful' shingles diagnosis as Pacers season takes another strange twist
Indiana's already-sidelined superstar will be away from the team as he recovers
A Woman Started Losing Her Sight Because of a Tattoo She Got Years Ago on Her Back. She's Not Alone
A rare inflammatory condition linked to tattoos is appearing more often in Australia.
No evidence behind RFK Jr’s claim keto diet can cure schizophrenia, experts say
Health secretary likely referred to Harvard psychiatrist who says he’s ‘never used the word cure in my work’
Column: Some Democratic candidates for California governor need to drop out
The jig is up for Democrats lagging in the race for governor
OpenAI deepens partnerships with consulting giants to push enterprise AI beyond pilot
OpenAI is expanding its push into the enterprise market by teaming up with four of the world’s largest consulting firms, betting that a more hands-on approach will help corporate clients move beyond pilot projects to full-scale AI deployments.
California Democrats back establishment candidates despite progressive pushback
California Democrats endorsed aging incumbents and party insiders over grassroots challengers, disappointing progressives.
We already have a good idea how capable the new MacBook will be
Once the new low-cost MacBook launches this week, those wanting to buy a portable Mac will have a choice of...
Nothing couldn’t wait to show off the Phone 4A
The new ‘Glyph Bar’ on Nothing’s upcoming midranger is 40 percent brighter than the Phone 3A’s LED strip lights.
A massive youth sports complex could be coming to this N.J. city under $6M deal
There's a deal to purchase 108 acres near a local college for a regional sports facility designed to boost tourism and create jobs.
Another health system is coming to Onondaga County soon, with room for 2,000 new primary patients
The new providers will see patients ages 5 and older.
State initiative will preserve history, draw growth to east Fort Worth business district
City and community leaders are partnering as they determine plans for redevelopment of historic Handley.
Super selfless seniors are key to UCLA women's basketball success
UCLA honored seniors Lauren Betts, Angela Dugalić, Gabriela Jaquez, Gianna Kneepkens, Charlisse Leger-Walker and Kiki Rice, who turned the Bruins into champions.
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.
Podcast: The Global Trends Shaping the Way We Do Business
Uncertainty is everywhere. On this episode of The Insightful Leader, we examine the effect of geopolitics on everything from Barbies to Sharpies.
Family member of armed man who breached Mar-a-Lago perimeter describes personality, politics
The family of an armed North Carolina man killed at Mar-a-Lago early Sunday calls the incident "mind-blowing," describing him as quiet and afraid of guns.
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.
2026 NFL mock draft: Eagles go to the trenches
Here’s our first mock draft of 2026 as we figure out what the Eagles will do at No. 23.
Zach Harber is balancing a growing business with his MBA studies - Notre Dame Business Mendoza College of Business
A new year is a new beginning, and Australia welcomes each new year before almost anywhere on Earth. Zach Harber (MBA ’27) had long dreamed of taking in the spectacle […]
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.
House Science Committee takes on data center permitting
The panel will discuss barriers that may slow the development of infrastructure for artificial intelligence.
Business license fees increased this year, some by as high as 400%
Some advocates contend higher business license fees are yet another burden for small businesses facing economic headwinds.
Merck to create separate cancer business to offset Keytruda patent loss, WSJ reports
Drugmaker Merck is separating its human-health business into two divisions to offset pressures related to the patent loss of its top-selling drug Keytruda, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday.
Dentsu Entertainment, Iconic Arts partner to create brand-oriented IP
The companies will help brands develop original IP tied to culture, with a focus on anime and serialized entertainment.
Deep in Antarctic ice, these particles can answer basic questions about the universe
A dense network of sensors is looking for the fleeting footprints of neutrinos, the most mysterious in the pantheon of known particles.
Ecology’s war on ‘invasive’ species isn’t science
Ecology is pervaded by a nativist dogma against invasive species that distorts the science and undermines wildness
What happened in Iowa politics the week of Feb. 16-20
Listen as Morning Edition Host Meghan McKinney and IPR's State Government Reporter Katarina Sostaric review the latest in Iowa politics.
How to stop a dictator
I spent months studying how authoritarians like Trump lose. The answer is shockingly simple.
PlayStation is Having a Big Sale on PS5 Games, Accessories and More at PS Direct This Week
You can currently save on PS5 games, accessories, and more in a brand new promotional sale at PS Direct this week.
Katie Porter holds ‘F--- TRUMP’ sign at California Democratic convention
Former Rep. Katie Porter, who is running for Golden State governor, said "F--- Trump" during remarks at the California Democratic Party state convention.
‘Progressive membership’: Ukraine’s economic resilience shows future for EU business tie-ups
Joint ventures on defence, green energy and telecoms suggest how country could join bloc in stages rather than wait for full status
Country music singer battling incurable disease still performing despite rough 2025
The 56-year-old has been open with fans about his battle with the disease.
'Beep Boop Beep Boop': New Xbox Boss Asha Sharma Hits Back at Claim Her Social Media Account Is Run by AI, and Posts Her Gamertag
Microsoft's new gaming boss Asha Sharma has begun chatting on social media with Xbox fans — and responding to comments regarding her perceived lack of gaming knowledge and background in AI.
Suspected gunman identified after being shot dead at Mar-a-Lago
Law enforcement confirm man, who was armed with a shotgun and gas canister at Trump’s Florida home, was 21-year-old Austin Tucker Martin
Biden, aides project optimism in cancer fight, but some close friends worry
The former president announced last year he has an aggressive form of prostate cancer. He and his aides say he’s doing well and has upcoming public appearances.
New research suggests some cases of autism could be preventable
Studies say avoiding environmental exposures, especially pre-conception, may help. Influencers are branding the idea “trimester zero,” but the science is in early stages.
New research suggests some cases of autism could be preventable
Studies say avoiding environmental exposures, especially pre-conception, may help. Influencers are branding the idea “trimester zero,” but the science is in early stages.
Influencers are promoting peptides for better health. What's the science say?
The latest wellness craze involves injecting these molecules for athletic performance, longevity and more. Scientists say the research isn't keeping pace with the health claims.
Influencers are promoting peptides for better health. What's the science say?
The latest wellness craze involves injecting these molecules for athletic performance, longevity and more. Scientists say the research isn't keeping pace with the health claims.
Influencers are promoting peptides for better health. What's the science say?
The latest wellness craze involves injecting these molecules for athletic performance, longevity and more. Scientists say the research isn't keeping pace with the health claims.
Poll: Most say the state of the union is not strong and the U.S. is worse off
Ahead of the State of the Union address on Tuesday, evidence continues to mount that President Trump is facing political headwinds.
Trump’s law is crushing the next generation of RFK Jr. disciples
Schools that educate medical contrarians like the health secretary are about to face a massive cut in federal funding.
German business sentiment rose more than expected in February, Ifo survey finds
German business morale rose more than expected in February, a survey showed on Monday, as both current conditions and expectations increased.
Democrats decry meager medical care for detainees in funding fight
Fernando Viera Reyes needed a biopsy for possible prostate cancer when the Trump administration sent him to an immigration detention center in California’s Mojave Desert.
Starwatch: Jupiter shines steady in Gemini
Solar system’s largest planet remains a brilliant, unwavering beacon, forming a striking trio with Castor and Pollux
‘Flow’ dramatically improves Android voice typing without replacing Gboard
Voice-to-text on Android is really good if you’re using a Pixel, and pretty hit or miss everywhere else. But the...
Man posing as radiology sales rep arrested for allegedly stealing $14M in medical devices
Jacksonville, Florida, police first apprehended Michael J. Roberson on Feb. 10 following an investigation dating to December 2024.
US dollar drops and stock markets face losses after Trump announces 15% global tariff
Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial news
A new era for Dutch politics with Rob Jetten set to be sworn in as prime minister
The Netherlands is getting a new minority government led by Rob Jetten, the country’s youngest-ever prime minister.
Politics Without Politicians by Hélène Landemore review – power to the people
Can a radical proposal to get rid of career politicians really be implemented?
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.
Josh Shapiro, in his own words, on political violence and antisemitism
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro is opening up about his Jewish faith at a pivotal moment in his political rise
From bakeries to beauty shops, Russian businesses are feeling the pain from a new wartime tax policy
As Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine marks four years, the pressure on Russia’s economy is starting to show.
As antisemitism rises and strife over Israel continues, Josh Shapiro turns toward his Jewish faith
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro may be the nation’s most prominent Jewish politician as antisemitism surges across America
This year's Mag Lab open house connects books and science
The immersive demonstrations and exhibits showcase the world changing research that takes place every day at the famed facility.
Budget, housing, business development: Concord City Council sets its priorities
Responsible monetary decisions. Clear and widely disseminated communication with the public, especially on the city’s finances and taxes. Helping people keep their homes and find new ones. Regulatory and cultural changes to make it easier for businesses and development, and investments in the roads, sewers and other infrastructure to support them. These pursuits are what […]
Forget Le Pen. French politics has a new archvillain.
The far-right National Rally wants to build a firewall around the hard-left France Unbowed after the killing of Quentin Deranque.
Gold rises as dollar falls on US Supreme Court tariff verdict
Gold rose to a more than three-week high on Monday, as the dollar fell after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a vast swathe of President Donald Trump's tariffs on Friday and as U.S.-Iran tensions simmered.
8 Takeaways from Cavs failed comeback attempt against shorthanded Thunder
The Cavaliers aren’t far off. They just need more time to figure things out.
Simple blood test can forecast Alzheimer’s years before memory loss
Scientists have created a blood test that can estimate when Alzheimer’s symptoms are likely to begin. By measuring a protein called p-tau217, the model predicts symptom onset within roughly three to four years. The protein mirrors the silent buildup of amyloid and tau in the brain long before memory loss appears. This advance could speed up preventive drug trials and eventually guide personalized care.
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
Health Care Groups Form Coalition to Fight Loan Caps
Inside Higher Ed spoke with two key leaders from the American Occupational Therapy Association about how the coalition came to be and what they hope to accomplish as pushback against the new loan limits grows.
Uniting to respond to mental health impacts of digital violence
Technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV), from doxxing and cyberstalking to cyberbullying and online harassment, is reshaping how women and girls navigate digital spaces. Globally, an estimated 23% of women have experienced digital violence. In Indonesia, reported cases of TFGBV reached 1,791 in 2024, a 40.8% increase from the previous year. Yet very few survivors seek help, leaving lasting effects on their mental health and wellbeing. As part of the multi-UN agencies UNiTE campaign for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health (MoH) co-hosted a talk show on 6 December 2025 to spotlight this urgent issue. The event brought together voices from Meta, the Indonesian Clinical Psychologist Association and Dr Vivi Syarif, a WHO Fides content creator, creating a cross-sectoral dialogue on the magnitude and mental health impact of digital violence. The talk show introduced psychological first aid as a vital initial intervention that communities can provide to survivors. This intervention aligns with the Psychological First Aid: Guide for Field Workers, a framework that has been standardized for over a decade. The "look, listen, link" approach focuses on ensuring safety and urgent needs, reassuring survivors and connecting them to appropriate services. In addition to this public health approach, Meta also outlined mechanisms to respond to digital violence and reaffirmed its commitment to building safer digital spaces by continuously updating community guidelines based on user feedback. Such collaborative discussions help connect community engagement initiatives with daily digital life. They empower audiences not only to understand how the health sector and industry are responding, but also to educate others, promote first-line support and encourage referrals to appropriate help. By fostering awareness and engagement, these dialogues strengthen collective resilience against digital violence. Written by Jessie O. Yunus, National Professional Officer (Gender, Equity, Rights and Disability Inclusion), WHO Indonesia
Someone bought a Galaxy S26 Ultra early, showing Privacy Display in action, more [Gallery]
Samsung’s Galaxy S26 launch is just days away but, somehow, one YouTuber managed to buy a Galaxy S26 Ultra early...
Photos: Best images from Thunder's 121-113 win over Cavaliers
The best photos from the Oklahoma City Thunder's 121-113 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Italy throws farewell party, passes torch to France
The Milan Cortina Olympics ended Sunday with a closing ceremony paying tribute to Italian dance and music inside the ancient Verona Arena.
Organic molecules found in a 500-million-year-old fossil, upending the science of paleontology
Biological polymer chitin survives 500 million years in fossils, revealing carbon conservation and ancient chemistry.
What it took to build California's Capitol
Feb. 28, 1854, marks the day Sacramento became the capital of California, the State Capitol Museum said.
RFK Jr.’s days of going wild on health may be over
After letting the health secretary have his way in 2025, Trump is reining him in now that it’s an election year.
Editorial: Sausalito’s Rose was strong, independent presence in Marin politics
Ms. Rose marched to her own drummer. She was studiously well-formed and methodically careful, practical and caring.