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Diamantis scandal, ‘superfund’ bill, DHS: CT politics news
Plus: Proposals for overdose prevention centers, private equity protections in health care, and a 'Golden Girls Bill.'
Virginia congressman introduces ‘Riley Gaines Act’ to protect women’s sports
The bill would allow female athletes to sue institutions that permit transgender women to compete.
US customs agency says it cannot comply with tariff refund order
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency is unable to comply with a court order directing it to refund tariffs that the Supreme Court has ruled illegal, the agency said in a court filing with the U.S. Court for International Trade on Friday.
Exercise Protects Against Alzheimer's, And Scientists May Finally Know Why
A crucial chain reaction.
Friday briefing: Can the politics of cruelty around asylum help Labour in the polls?
In today’s newsletter: Labour’s new asylum framework marks a decisive shift in how the UK treats people granted protection and exposes tensions between electoral strategy, public service pressures and the party’s historic commitments to human rights
WATCH: Mullin says he wasn’t expecting call from Trump on DHS, but is ‘excited to get started’
Republican Sen. Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma is President Donald Trump’s nominee for the next Homeland Security Secretary, following the firing of Kristi Noem on Thursday. Mullin told reporters at the Capitol that he would get DHS “focused on protecting the homeland.”
Commentary: IC does not adequately support club sports
The memories, lessons and love that softball has brought me have proven invaluable, and that is something worth protecting. This institution does not give us money and actively impedes on our ability to play and practice. Access to Kostrinsky Field, even for just one day across a semester, would be a game-changer.
BBC to call for permanent charter and end of political appointments to board
Corporation proposes sweeping changes intended to protect its independence and shore up its future
Trump, tech companies sign voluntary pledge to protect consumers from rising electricity costs
President Donald Trump unveiled a voluntary pledge with major tech companies on Wednesday that the administration said will protect consumers from rising electricity costs spurred by artificial intelligence development.
Horvath Moves To Protect Entertainment Jobs and Evaluate Economic Impact of Warner Bros. Acquisition - Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath
Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath introduced a motion calling for a comprehensive economic impact study of the proposed Paramount Skydance acquisition of Warner Bros.
Pressure points: Balancing clinical and financial priorities in health care | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
As financial pressures intensify across health care, leaders face difficult choices that test their ability to protect clinical excellence while sustaining their organizations. Join leading experts for a candid conversation about navigating the tensions between clinical and financial priorities—and the skills, strategies, and innovations needed to lead effectively through these competing demands.
7 Expert Steps To Launch Your Business And Protect Your Mental Health
Industry experts share 7 essential steps to launch a business—from funding and legal setup to marketing and protecting your mental health.
7 Expert Steps To Launch Your Business And Protect Your Mental Health
Industry experts share 7 essential steps to launch a business—from funding and legal setup to marketing and protecting your mental health.
Chris Ballard messed it up again
Ballard protected Daniel Jones but left Alec Pierce exposed, creating unnecessary risk for the Colts
Advocates warn Farm Bill could weaken protections for dogs
Animal rights advocates sound the alarm
Advocates warn Farm Bill could weaken protections for dogs
Animal rights advocates sound the alarm
What Your Phone Knows Could Help Scientists Understand Your Health
Stanford scientists have released an open-source platform that lets health researchers study the “screenome” – the digital traces of our daily lives – while protecting participants’ privacy.
Titus targets prediction markets as the battle to protect sports betting intensifies
The Nevada congresswoman introduces a bill to ban Kalshi and others from offering sports “contracts” without approval from states. Also, M Resort boosts Penn.
Steve Scalise rips Democrats for 'playing political games' with DHS shutdown amid Iran threat
As the DHS shutdown hits Day 18, GOP Leader Steve Scalise tells Fox News Digital that "political games" must end to protect the U.S. during heightened tensions with Iran.
Scientists just found the brain’s hidden defense against Alzheimer’s
A new study has uncovered why some brain cells are more resistant to Alzheimer’s damage than others. Researchers found a natural cleanup system that helps remove toxic tau protein before it can form harmful clumps. The study also shows that cellular stress can produce a dangerous tau fragment linked to Alzheimer’s. Strengthening the brain’s natural defenses could point the way to new treatments.
Box Turtles Are Vanishing. Can Science Help Bring Them Back?
Smithsonian researcher Maxwell Earle explains how tracking tech can help protect struggling Eastern box turtle populations in Virginia.
Writing the Final Chapter: Helping Business Owners Protect Their Legacy
Every business begins with an idea — a leap of faith, a late night at the kitchen table, a first customer who said yes. Over time, that idea becomes payrolls, partnerships and a legacy built through years of hard work. But every business story eventually reaches an important question: What comes next? Stony Brook University’s
A priest helped her see her drinking problem. Talks with Jesus kept her sober. She’s not the only one
New research suggests that kind of connection may help others, too. A study published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry in February found that a person’s spiritual belief or a steady religious practice had a protective effect from addiction.
Mosses are often overlooked. St. Louis scientists are leading the charge to protect them
More than 1,600 plants and animals are protected under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, but out of all of those, only one is a moss. A new effort seeks to protect these often overlooked plants.
Can a smartphone tutorial improve environmental health literacy?
People are interested in understanding how they can reduce chemical exposure. A new tutorial researchers developed can help.
Global webinar on core public health capacities to conduct ship inspections and issue ship sanitation certificates
Ships cross borders every day, connecting countries and serving as a backbone of the global economy. However, outbreaks onboard can disrupt maritime traffic, leading to significant economic and operational negative consequences. Without strong public health capacities to detect, prevent, and respond to public health risks on board ships, maritime travel can also become a pathway for the spread of infectious diseases. To support countries in strengthening these capacities, the World Health Organization (WHO) convened a two-day webinar on 11–12 February, bringing together more than 700 ship inspectors, port health officers, and public health authorities, primarily from the African, Eastern Mediterranean, and European Regions. The webinar came at a pivotal time. With the amended International Health Regulations entering into force on 19 September 2025, the need to focus on public health preparedness has never been greater. Strengthening public health capacities at borders, including onboard conveyances, is a cornerstone of global health security and central to the amended IHR.“The high level of attendance and active participation throughout the two days of the webinar highlighted the growing demand for technical guidance and capacity-building support in ship inspection and issuance of ship sanitation certificates”, said Dr Ninglan Wang, Head of the Borders, Mass Gatherings and Health Protection Measures (BMM) Unit at the Health Emergency Preparedness Department at WHO headquarters. “The dynamic interactions among experts and countries underscored the value of continued cross-border collaboration in the maritime sector and knowledge exchange in this area”. Conducting regular public health inspections on board ships for the issuance of ship sanitation certificates (SSCs) in accordance with the IHR requirements is crucial for ensuring that ships meet specific health standards, thereby minimizing the risk of the international spread of diseases via maritime traffic. These certificates, mandated by the IHR, require ports to have trained personnel who can identify and control public health risks on board vessels and apply recommended control measures. This standardized global procedure not only ensures compliance with the IHR but also promotes consistency in health practices across ports worldwide. SSCs are the globally-recognized tool used to prevent and control known public health risks on ships, providing a common way to register and communicate public health events and measures taken on board between all stakeholders involved in this process, including public health authorities in ports and ship operators. Only SSCs issued by ports authorized by national authorities to issue such certificates are considered valid. As per the IHR, all States Parties are required to send to WHO their list of authorized ports (available here) and to keep it updated. However, many Member States continue to face practical challenges, such as limited resources, high staff turnover, and competing priorities. These realities underscore the value of platforms such as this webinar, which foster collective learning, peer-to-peer exchange, and practical solutions to help countries build and sustain the capacities required under the IHR.Over the two days, participants engaged in presentations and discussions covering a wide range of technical and operational topics, such as the overarching international legal framework governing ship sanitation; considerations for pre-inspection planning; risk assessment factors by type of vessel; the completion and issuance of SSCs and evidence report forms; or practical insights on the inspection of various technical areas, such as food safety, medical facilities, water systems, or vector control, among others. In addition, public health authorities from the Netherlands, Morocco, and Tanzania shared case studies to showcase their practical application of these IHR requirements in their respective countries. Given its success, WHO plans to replicate similar sessions in the future to reach additional time zones and regions and cover other pressing border health-related topics, ensuring that Member States can continue benefiting from these opportunities to share knowledge and expertise.
Asbestos fees drive inspections strengthening public health protections
The fee-supported asbestos program exceeded its inspection goals, ensuring safer demolition and renovation practices statewide.
'The View' returning star Elisabeth Hasselbeck gets 'armor of God' for protection from show
Elisabeth Hasselbeck's friend gave her real 'armor of God' for protection ahead of her return to 'The View' that includes a 'helmet of salvation' and 'breastplate of righteousness.'
How a family fought Title IX inequity in wrestling, and created change
The Gillers' story highlights cases – in their state and elsewhere in the USA – where parents see schools violating protections. Here's their advice.
Health Ministry tells hospitals to move operations to protected and underground areas
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Former EPA Staff Detail Expanding Pollution Risks Under Trump
The Trump administration’s relentless rollback of public health and environmental protections has allowed widespread toxic exposures to flourish, warn experts who helped implement safeguards now under assault.
How to Maintain a Strong and Healthy Heart With the Right Foods
Dr. Ian Smith, physician and bestselling author of “The Last 15: Say Goodbye to Those Most Stubborn Pounds,” joins TODAY to share diet tips to protect yourself from heart disease. Tips include eating heart productive unsaturated fats, replacing sodium with healthier ingredients and more.
U.S. military used laser to take down Border Protection drone, lawmakers say
It was the second time in two weeks that a laser was fired in the area.
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.
Santiago de Chile Declaration launched to advance clean air and environmental justice in Latin America
The Santiago de Chile Declaration calls for urgent, coordinated action to reduce air pollution and advance environmental justice across Latin America and the Caribbean. Launched with support from World Health Organization and Pan American Health Organization, the Declaration frames clean air as a human right and sets out concrete regional and national priorities to protect public health—especially for vulnerable communities.
Springfield business owner pleads guilty to COVID-19 loan fraud, money laundering
Springfield business owner pleaded guilty to bank fraud and money laundering after fraudulently obtaining $316,062 in Paycheck Protection Program loans under the CARES Act and using the funds for unauthorized purposes, including personal benefit.
TXBIZ PAC Announces 2026 Texas Primary Election Endorsements for Pro-Business Candidates
AUSTIN, TX — Today, TXBIZ PAC, the political action committee representing the Texas Association of Business, released its full list of endorsed candidates for the March 3rd, 2026 Primary Elections. “The TXBIZ PAC Board is proud to endorse candidates and officeholders who are committed to protecting and strengthening Texas’ unrivaled pro-business climate,” said TXBIZ PAC…
Razer’s new laptop sleeve wirelessly charges other devices
If you already travel with your laptop protected, this sleeve lets you leave a couple of chargers at home.
Fostering Health Sovereignty in the Democratic Republic of the Congo Through the America First Global Health Strategy - United States Department of State
Today, the United States and the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) signed a five-year bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that advances the America First Global Health Strategy while protecting Americans and Congolese from infectious disease threats. Under the MOU, working with Congress, the Department of State intends to provide up to $900 million […]
Trump asks Supreme Court to remove immigration protections for thousands of Syrians
President Donald Trump’s administration urged the Supreme Court on Thursday to allow it to end temporary protections for thousands of Syrians who have been living in the United States since the government’s brutal crackdown on protesters fifteen years ago.
Trump administration asks the Supreme Court to allow an end to legal protections for Syrian migrants
The Trump administration wants the Supreme Court to allow the government to end legal protections for migrants from Syria for now
Diversified Protective Services Expands Executive Protection Services, Strengthening Security Support for the Entertainment and Film Industry
Diversified Protective Services, a premier security firm headquartered in Los Angeles, is proud to announce the expansion of its Executive Protection Services, with a specialized focus on the entertainment and film industry. As demand for discreet, high–level personal security continues to increase throughout Hollywood and the broader entertainment community, the company is positioned to deliver tailored protection solutions for actors, executives, production teams, and high–profile industry pro
The Trump EPA’s Endangerment Finding Repeal: Wrong on Statute, Deceptive on Science, Reckless on Impacts
On February 12, the Trump Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized its repeal of the Endangerment Finding, which establishes EPA’s statutory obligation to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. Alongside, EPA also repealed the associated vehicle greenhouse gas emissions standards. This action
Phonak ambassadors spotlight hearing health for the next generation on World Hearing Day
STÄFA, Switzerland, Feb. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Phonak, a global leader in innovative hearing solutions, will mark World Hearing Day on March 3 with a global campaign across three continents, putting youth hearing health at the center of the conversation. Together, with its three international ambassadors, Phonak inspires children and teens to protect their hearing, understand the risks of hearing loss, and feel confident to dream big with the support of modern hearing technology. Accordin
Zambia pushed back on U.S. health funding deal to protect interests, government says
Zambia has pushed back on part of a deal worth more than $1 billion in global health aid from the United States because it does not align with the country’s interests, the government said on Wednesday, as health advocates warned the deal links the money to mining access and has data-sharing risks.
‘Open for business’ or ‘body count?’ Bill would curb environmental, health protections
Kentucky regulators could not issue regulations to protect health and the environment until people are being harmed under a bill that moved from committee.
JPMorgan Has The Right To Protect Its Reputation, And Its Business
To focus on ideology as the cause of closed accounts is a non sequitur that totally misses the point.
Trump Administration Prioritizes Affordability by Announcing Major Crackdown on Health Care Fraud
Today HHS announced new steps to crack down on fraud in Medicare and Medicaid to protect patients and taxpayers and improve affordability.
One type of olive oil has a surprising effect on brainpower during aging
New study reveals extra virgin olive oil may protect brain health by improving gut bacteria and cognitive function in older adults.
Fortifying Health Systems and Countering Infectious Disease Threats Through the America First Global Health Strategy in Burkina Faso - United States Department of State
Today, the United States and Burkina Faso signed a five-year bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that reinforces regional health security in the Sahel while advancing Burkina Faso’s capacity to independently manage infectious disease threats before they reach our shores. This MOU reflects the Trump Administration’s commitment to protecting American health security while building […]
Can birdwatching protect your brain from aging? Science says maybe
Grab your binoculars — this popular hobby could be the best thing you do for your brain as you age.
Trust SARHAchat with your reproductive health questions
Faculty and students from nursing and computer science use AI and University resources to create a free chatbot that protects user privacy.
Man who stabbed four to death in Washington state had history of mental health issues
Man, 32, shot dead by deputy after stabbing attack was the subject of domestic violence protection orders
Driving large-scale hearing and balance research through data science investments, and an update on NIDCD’s January Advisory Council meeting
Enabling access to large-scale multimodal databases is essential to advancing science across all institutes at NIH. As both datasets and analytical methods become more complex, proper data infrastructure can enable multidisciplinary research efforts at a scale greater than that of individual studies alone. In line with NIH-wide strategic plans, NIDCD is making investments in data science that address long-standing research gaps, provide important resources for the research community, and preserve and protect participant privacy and data security.
Did the Constitution doom American democracy?
In 2015, Matt Yglesias predicted America’s political system would collapse. Did Trump prove him right?
Reproductive health providers targeted by Trump ask for additional state funding
In order to protect Maine’s reproductive health care system, which has lost millions in federal funding over the last year, lawmakers are considering legislation to provide additional state support to protect against future changes. The bill, LD 335, sponsored by Rep. Amy Kuhn (D-Falmouth), would provide an annual $5 million allocation. Maine Family Planning and […]
Emperor Penguins moult to survive, but scientists fear it may now be killing them
The birds moult to protect themselves, but in a warming world, it could be endangering them.
Emperor Penguins must change their feathers - it may now be killing them
The birds moult to protect themselves, but in a warming world, it could be endangering them.
Colorado is turning its back on agriculture
Colorado’s farmers and ranchers already face significant challenges, including volatile commodity prices, rising input costs, labor shortages and unpredictable weather. They should not also have to contend with a state legislature that increasingly seeks to regulate how they protect crops and livestock. Yet that is precisely what Senate Bills 26-062 and 26-065 represent: a top-down […]
WATCH: ‘You killed Americans,’ lawmaker says as Trump asks Congress to stand for protecting citizens
While Republicans stood and applauded for two minutes, at least one Democratic lawmaker in the room shouted “you killed Americans,” a reference to two citizens shot and killed by federal agents in Minnesota in January.
Douglas County adopts ordinance to address retail theft and support local businesses
Following extensive community and business input, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners has adopted an ordinance designed to improve reporting, strengthen enforcement and protect local businesses from retail theft. The…
READY, SET, IMPLEMENT! Lifelines in Crisis: Prioritizing Women’s, Children’s, and Adolescents’ Health in Humanitarian and Conflict-affected Settings
Conflict, climate change and displacement are driving a global “permacrisis,” with over half of maternal and child deaths occurring in fragile settings. This PMNCH webinar explores rights-based, resilient approaches to protect WCAH and SRHR, strengthen local systems, and accelerate integrated health action in crisis contexts.
EPA mercury rollback raises health and transparency concerns in North Carolina
The Environmental Protection Agency's mercury rollback is raising health and transparency concerns in North Carolina.
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.
How Public Health Officials Use Data to Protect a Community
Over the course of her career, Dr. Janet Berreman has relied on data to identify, understand, and guide her response to community health needs. One source of that data comes from syndromic surveillance, an automated data feed that can act as an early warning system for emerging health threats.
COUNTERPOINT: Don’t Let Politics Destroy Honest Delivery Businesses - Streetsblog New York City
The Delivery Protection Act could destroy my small business.
COUNTERPOINT: Don’t Let Politics Destroy Honest Delivery Businesses - Streetsblog New York City
The Delivery Protection Act could destroy my small business.
🏥 Protecting Iowa’s Health Care
In rural Iowa, the nearest hospital isn’t just a building — it’s a lifeline. And in many towns, it’s the only one for miles. When that hospital struggles to hire nurses, absorb rising costs, and maintain key services, families feel it immediately — long before any announcement is made. Last week, I met with patients […]
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.
The Politics of Wildlife Protection
At the latest Washington Convention meeting in Uzbekistan, countries, conservationists, NGOs and traders negotiated over the fate of the world’s endangered animals
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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The First Amendment protects the Second
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Coalition Files Lawsuit to Challenge Censorship, Erasure of American History and Science at National Parks
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