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On the scene: A new accelerated forensic science program
GCU now offers an accelerated bachelor and master of forensic science so students can advance in the profession faster. Students in the accelerated program can […]
Georgia State to Host Science Olympiad Regional Tournament
Georgia State University’s College of Arts & Sciences will host the Division B Regional Tournament of the 2026 Science Olympiad Feb. 28.
Google acquires AI music platform - and Suno challenger
Google has acquired ProducerAI, the AI music creation platform formerly known as Riffusion, bringing the startup and its team into Google Labs. The deal was announced on Tuesday (February 24) via a…
Person with measles visited car dealership and Wawa in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania health officials say
Behind closed doors, GOP lawmaker questioned ‘disturbing’ East Wing demolition
Rep. Michael Turner, co-chair of the congressional Historic Preservation Caucus, wrote to a top White House aide about his “substantial concerns.”
COB Initiative Helps Business Owners Protect Their Legacy
The College of Business is launching a new research initiative to explore The Owner’s Dilemma — how business owners prepare for succession, transition or sale.
Democrats Counter Trump With Their Own Version of a Wall Street Landlords Ban
As the president prepares to deliver a State of the Union address likely to touch on his own plan, Senate Democrats introduced a bill with their own vision for limiting investors’ purchases of single-family homes.
Sofia Vergara on How Her Mom Inspired Her Heart Health Mission
Sofia Vergara joins TODAY to talk about “America’s Got Talent” as it begins its 21st season, appearing in three Super Bowl commercials during one game, and how her mom’s experience with high blood pressure inspired her heart health mission to spread awareness about uACR tests that detect early kidney damage. (Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim)
How Jeffrey Epstein Ingratiated Himself With Top Microsoft Executives
For more than two decades, the convicted sex offender developed a network at the tech giant, making him privy to succession discussions and other business.
Opinion: More than the Game: The rise of sports betting culture
It’s Sunday night, and anticipation hangs in the air as people gather around their TVs, hoping their parlay finally hits. But what drives this obsession with sports betting? Is it the adrenaline of watching your favorite player execute a seamless play, the conversation and community that form around the game, or something else — because...
Atlanta Braves announce new team-owned, produced broadcast, streaming network
‘Braves Vision’ will launch in 2026 on various streaming, linear outlets
Technology Originally Developed for Space Missions Now Integral to Everyday Life
Groundbreaking “camera-on-a-chip” technology that was originally developed at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) for use in space missions is currently employed in billions of devices like cell phones that are used daily by people worldwide.
Speaker Mike Johnson invites Louisiana business leader to State of Union
Trott Hunt said President Trump's policies advanced by the Republican Congress have driven expansion for his company and clients.
Smooth sailing so far for bill to address long mental health holds in jails
by Maya Shimizu Harris, WyoFile CHEYENNE—After zooming through the Senate in the first two weeks of session, a bill to reimburse jails for holding and
Clemson Data Science Students Help Ohio Energy Company Tackle Environmental Risk and Workforce Gaps
The need aligned with the applied learning mission of Clemson’s M.S. DSA program. The program, housed in the Department of Management within the Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business, is an online degree developed cooperatively by Clemson’s School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences and Department of Management.
A Century Of Plenty: Business Leaders Role In The Next Era Of Progress
A new era demands new decisions. Business leaders need to rethink strategy, invest in productivity, and harness AI to unlock a century of plenty.
The war on science: resisting and rebuilding at a crucial juncture
Peter Staley’s talk at the opening session of the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI 2026) in Denver was a grim post-mortem of one of the most challenging years in recent HIV history – an ‘annus horribilis’ – a phrase Queen Elizabeth II used to describe 1992 and The Lancet applied to 2025.
Trump reportedly frustrated as he waits on envoys’ judgment over Iran strikes
Trump’s decision to order airstrikes against Iran will hinge in part on the judgment of Trump’s special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner
Could pro hockey anchor Phoenix's entertainment district?
At a panel discussion hosted by the Urban Land Institute, sports and real estate leaders discussed the future of downtown Phoenix.
Portland extends moratorium on large entertainment venues
City councilors passed the extension unanimously as an emergency on Monday night, saying they need more time to review a proposed "buffer zone" that would block the construction of a Live Nation concert hall downtown
POLITICO Expands to Australia
Expansion to Indo-Pacific is part of POLITICO’s commitment to linking global power centers
Join live: Watch IndyStar politics team breaks down final week of legislative session
Join IndyStar's politics team for some live analysis as Indiana's lawmakers convene for the final week of the 2026 legislative session.
Integrated Partners Starts Business-Focused Private Wealth Unit
The RIA has formalized an Integrated Private Wealth division that leverages its CPA network to guide small business owners through exit.
‘Something special for the city’: Four New Orleans schools in Division I finals doubleheader
Seated in the stands at Strawberry Stadium in Hammond, Stella Junius dreamed of playing in this kind of matchup.
Trump State of the Union Speech 2026: How to Watch, Time and Attendees
President Trump will speak at 9 p.m. Eastern time to a joint session of Congress. The New York Times will carry the address live.
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.
Increased mental health demands extend to Ohio medical professionals
Ohio’s mental health landscape is consistently seeing increases in demand, including among medical professionals like nurses and physicians, who are asking for more help.
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.
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 […]
The Phillies’ player with most to prove in spring training
The Phillies rolled to the division title a year ago, but it's not about winning the NL East as they need to fight for NL superiority
Trump confronts his 3 main options on Iran — from diplomacy to trying to topple a regime
After ordering the largest American military buildup in the Middle East since the onset of the Iraq War, President Donald Trump now has a decision to make on Iran.
Poland sends four swimmers and one diver to state meet
Poland Swim & Dive sends four swimmers and one diver to the Division II 2026 OHSAA State Swimming and Diving Tournament this week.
Former Eagles offensive coordinator joins the Rams
Philadelphia’s former OC and QB coach is leaving the division.
Panasonic turns off US TV business with handover to Chinese rival
Skyworth to take over most of Japanese electronics group’s foreign television operations
Star senior leads Episcopal past Newman in Division III Select playoffs
“I knew she would be ready. She’s a senior. She doesn’t want to go home.”
What to watch for when Arizona men’s basketball visits Baylor
A lot was accomplished on Saturday, when Arizona went to Houston and beat the two-time defending Big 12 regular season champions on their own court. The win helped the Wildcats (25-2, 12-2) take over sole possession of first place in the Big 12, with effectively a 2-game lead on the field with four to go. […]
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.
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.
What to expect at Tuesday's State of the Union speech
Trump's speech Tuesday night will come amid tariff confusion and a Department of Homeland Security funding fight
Inside the state lab guiding North Carolina’s measles response
With at least 23 measles cases reported in North Carolina since December, critical public health decisions begin inside the State Laboratory of Public Health in Raleigh. Scientists there confirm high-risk cases, shaping how officials notify the public and limit further spread.
What to watch in the race for North Carolina's open Senate seat
North Carolina’s primary election is next week, and early voting is already underway. We discuss what to watch in the race for the state's open Senate seat and a competitive Democratic primary in the state's 4th congressional district.This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, political correspondent Ashley Lopez, and WUNC Capitol Bureau Chief Colin Campbell.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
Kaiser Permanente nurses, health care professionals in California and Hawaii end strike, will return to work Tuesday
From Nick Shirley to Colin Hortman: What Minnesota SOTU guests say about the politics of the moment
The state’s 10-member congressional delegation will highlight with their guests where they stand on immigration, fraud, tariffs and political violence.
Kansas City Chiefs Become First Professional Sports Team to Provide Partners with Independently Verified Digital Media Data
Digital Media, Social Media, Fandom and Other Bsiness Metrics Remain High for Chiefs Kingdom Heading into 2026 Offseason
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.
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.
Previewing Louisville at North Carolina
Louisville Cardinals (20-7, 9-5) at North Carolina Tar Heels (21-6, 9-5) Game Time: 7 p.m. Location: Dean E. Smith Center: Chapel Hill, N.C. Television: ESPN Announcers: Dave O’Brien (play-by-play), Jay Williams (analysis), and Molly McGrath (sideline) Favorite: Louisville by 2.5 Series: North Carolina leads, 20-8 Last Meeting: Louisville won 83-70 on Jan. 1, 2025 in Louisville Series History: Projected Starting Lineups: Louisville North […]
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.
Backing VENU’s Disruptive Vision for Future of Live Entertainment
Niall Horan and Dierks Bentley coming on as shareholders of VENU
Backing VENU’s Disruptive Vision for Future of Live Entertainment
Niall Horan and Dierks Bentley Joining Venu as Shareholders
Training for New ICE Agents Is ‘Deficient’ and ‘Broken,’ Whistle-Blower Says
The former official will appear with congressional Democrats, who also released documents indicating significant reductions in instructional hours for recruits.
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
Northeast Senate League seeks founding commissioner for high school sports league
The new Northeast Senate League in the Stark County area announces its search for its founding league commissioner.
Entertainment Is a Software Industry Now and We Might as Well Get Good at It
The Trade Desk’s SVP of Consumer Products says studios and streamers must evolve their approach and work with trusted partners who share their vision
City commissioners push to speed up Market District roadwork
Tallahassee city commissioners are pushing to speed up roadwork in the Market District, aiming to finish a key roundabout by summer.
Camms’ latest gift to Clemson School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences recognizes the importance of faculty excellence
The gift establishes the Jeff '84 and Karen '82 Camm Endowed Professorship in Data Science and Decision Intelligence. The gift establishes the Jeff '84 and Karen '82 Camm Endowed Professorship in Data Science and Decision Intelligence.
Who is Asha Sharma? A closer look at Microsoft’s surprise pick to lead the Xbox business
Microsoft's new top gaming exec has the trust of Satya Nadella, a track record running platforms at Facebook, Instacart, and Microsoft's AI division, and a goal to protect Xbox's "renegade spirit." What she doesn't have is gaming industry experience — and the community is watching closely.
New Leadership Team Set to Shape the Next Era of Assassin’s Creed
Today, Vantage Studios, a Ubisoft subsidiary, announced the appointment of three seasoned leaders who will play a pivotal role in driving the Assassin’s Creed brand’s long-term vision.
Saturn’s rings and largest moon may have formed after a cosmic collision, astronomers say
Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, might have formed after a collision with a lost moon, according to new research.
The High Rates of Mental Health Struggles
New research from Special Olympics Health, authored by SOI Chief Health Officer, Dr. Dimitri Christakis was published in JAMA Network Open titled: Anxiety, Depression, and Care Barriers in Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Girding against Keytruda cliff, Merck splits oncology into standalone business unit
The patent cliff for Keytruda is fast approaching in the U.S. Now, as Merck & Co. | The patent cliff for Keytruda is fast approaching in the U.S. Now, as Merck & Co. increasingly looks to life after its oncology megablockbuster, the company is honing its focus on new and upcoming medicines by splitting its core pharmaceutical business in two.
US orders non-emergency personnel to leave Beirut embassy amid tensions
US official says Washington determined it was 'prudent to reduce our footprint to essential personnel' in Lebanon.
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 ...
People with intellectual and development disabilities have higher rates of anxiety, depression
And other health news from the Morning Rounds newsletter
Dru Joyce Classic | April 10, 2026 | Greater Cleveland Sports Commission
Dru Joyce Classic returns to Cleveland! Cleveland is set to host one of the nation’s premier youth basketball events. From April 10-12, 2026, the Dru Joyce Classic will take over the I-X Center, bringing elite competition and a significant economic boost to Northeast Ohio. This three-day tournament is a cornerstone of the...
Four questions with Tennessee Finance Commissioner Jim Bryson
With governor's proposal in hand, state's top finance official talks through it
‘Inside the Situation Room’ Bridges the Gap Between Politics and Academia
Columbia SIPA Dean Keren Yarhi-Milo and Secretary Hillary Clinton co-edited a book that brings readers into the room where leaders make decisions in times of crisis.
Merck to create separate cancer business to offset Keytruda patent loss
Merck said on Monday it will split its human-health business into two divisions, separating its cancer franchise from its non-oncology medicines.
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.
With billions on the line, Chicago faces turning point on publicly funded stadiums
Chicago's professional sports teams have shaped its global identity for decades. Now they're at the heart of a rare, generational choice for local officials: Should taxpayers foot the bill?
This week: Snow delays congressional business before State of the Union
Congress called off Monday evening votes as a snowstorm hit the Northeast, but the State of the Union remains on track for Tuesday evening.
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.
GO Pass: Road to Kalos
The GO Pass is a free, limited-time progression track where you earn rewards by collecting GO Points. All Trainers will receive GO Pass: Road to Kalos for free on Monday, February 23, at 10:00 a.m. local time. You can earn GO Points and rank up through Sunday, March 1, at 6:00 p.m. local time. From […]
How Utah evolved into a sports boomtown — and MLB expansion frontrunner
The population of the Salt Lake City-Provo-Orem corridor, now nearly 3 million, has roughly doubled since MLB last expanded in 1998.
Pharma lobbyists focus on a surprising new target: the FDA
Lobbyists told STAT they believe the odds of approval go up if a decision can be spun as a win for the Trump administration.
Loftus-Cheek carried off after collision
England midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek suffers a head injury during AC Milan's defeat by Parma.
Shields beats Crews-Dezurn to retain title
Claressa Shields defends her undisputed heavyweight crown by beating fellow American Franchon Crews-Dezurn by unanimous points decision in Detroit.
Call for Jersey politicians to prioritise future generations
Deputy says some current policy decisions are stacking up problems for the future.
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.
From bakeries to beauty shops, Russian businesses are feeling the pain from a new wartime tax policy
Denis Maksimov’s bakery in suburban Moscow became famous overnight after he appeared on President Vladimir Putin’s annual call-in show in December. Standing in front of the bakery — called Mashenka, after his oldest daughter -– he pleaded with Putin via video to look into new tax reforms that are significantly increasing the burden on small businesses like his. As Putin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine marks four years, the mounting pressure on Russia’s economy is starting to show.
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 […]
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.
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.
iOS 26.3.1 Update for iPhones Coming Soon as 'Apple Experience' Nears
Apple's software engineers are testing iOS 26.3.1, according to the MacRumors visitor logs, which have been a reliable indicator of upcoming iOS versions. iOS 26.3.1 should be a minor update that fixes bugs and/or security vulnerabilities, and it will likely be released within the next two weeks. Last month, Apple released iOS 26.2.1 with bug fixes and support for the second-generation AirTag.
Faith and Values: The unfinished business of an avocado
Editor’s note: This is an occasional letter Paul has been writing – since 1997 – to his now young-adult grandchildren.
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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