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John Oliver Doesn’t Want Paramount as WBD ‘Business Daddy’
John Oliver recently addressed the possibility of Paramount acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery. The Last Week Tonight host used his HBO platform to comment on the proposed transaction, describing the po...
Pokémon Pokopia is an expansive adventure disguised as a cozy life sim
Get ready to put that Ditto to work.
Americans will pay for Trump’s war in Iran
How the war in Iran could cause an economic crisis.
Vivo’s next phone will launch with a professional camera rig
And it’s going to launch outside China.
Orange Business and Tech Mahindra to Forge Strategic Partnership to Accelerate End-to-End Digital Transformation for Enterprise Customers Worldwide, Focusing on AI, Automation and Secure Digital Platforms
Orange Business and Tech Mahindra today announced that they have entered exclusive negotiations to form a non-equity, global strategic partnership to help en...
Press release: Orange Business and Tech Mahindra to forge strategic partnership to accelerate end-to-end digital transformation for enterprise customers worldwide, focusing on AI, automation and secure digital platforms
Press releaseParis, 02 March 2026 Orange Business and Tech Mahindra to forge strategic partnership to accelerate end-to-end digital transformation for enterprise customers worldwide, focusing on AI, automation and secure digital platforms This proposed 5-year partnership aims to fast-track next-generation solutions for international customers by combining Orange Business’ trusted leadership in networks, platforms, cloud and cybersecurity with Tech Mahindra’s strong integration expertise and agil
The agency holdcos have an AI story, but not an AI business model
The holdco platforms need to deliver on the promises made around AI — and so far, clients aren’t seeing it.
The Motorola Razr Fold is shaping up to be pure flagship
Maybe this won’t be the affordable foldable.
MGM Resorts Highlights Responsible Gaming Push And Sports Ties For Investors
MGM Resorts International (NYSE:MGM) and BetMGM announced a $1 million commitment to responsible gaming, including a three year research project into sports wagering impacts and expanded safeguards across their platforms. The initiative was launched during Problem Gambling Awareness Month, aligning product changes and research funding with a period of heightened focus on gambling related risks. MGM Resorts is also set to co host "She Got Game" in Las Vegas, an event honoring U.S. women’s...
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.
A robot arm with puppy dog eyes is just one of Lenovo’s new desktop AI concepts
Lenovo’s latest concept devices use AI to streamline your work day.
Portable Sonos Play speaker leaks on Canadian Best Buy
It looks sort of like a smaller, more rugged Move 2.
Khamenei is dead. Regime change will be much harder.
The US can’t just bomb its way to a new government.
Musk points to highest 'ever' usage of X amid US-Israel strikes on Iran
Elon Musk says the X platform saw its highest usage ever following US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Khamenei and top officials.
'Really painful'
Bristol City head coach Gerhard Struber criticises his team for giving away 'cheap' goals in the home defeat by Watford.
Obama official who backed Iran deal sparks online outrage with reaction to Trump's strike: 'Sit this one out'
Ben Rhodes, Obama official behind 2015 Iran deal, faces conservative backlash after criticizing Trump's military strike on Iran on social media platforms.
Trump’s case for the Iran war makes no sense
The scary incoherence at the heart of Trump’s latest, biggest war.
Noah Lyles Expectations Heading Into USATF, The Entertainment Factor of Track & Field
Ahead of the USATF Indoor Championships this weekend Noah Lyles sends out warning shots to his competitors.
Xiaomi’s Leica Leitzphone mostly earns the name
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra and its Leica co-branded special edition are closer to cameras than ever before.
Why did the US strike Iran?
And four other questions about the latest conflict in the Middle East, answered.
Why India switched sides on Israel-Palestine — and why it matters
The “nationalist international” binding Israel and India.
Tenways nearly perfects the shareable city e-bike
Twist, fold, lift, lower, haul, repeat.
The nuclear nightmare at the heart of the Trump-Anthropic fight
Should we trust Claude to stop a missile attack?
Truth Social may go private as Trump Media shifts strategy
Trump Media & Technology Group, founded by President Trump, is exploring a plan to spin off its Truth Social platform into a publicly traded company.
The Trump phone sure looks a lot like this HTC handset
Has the Trump phone been here this whole time?
Phones are going to get weird next week
Expect rotating camera rings, robot arms, and magnetic modules at MWC 2026.
What economists got wrong about Trump’s tariffs
The 3 big lessons we’ve learned since “Liberation Day.”
Foreign aid is back from the dead — but it’s in the hands of the people who tried to kill it
Both parties just approved billions for lifesaving aid abroad. Will Trump actually spend it?
A new poll shows just how quickly Israel has lost America’s sympathy
A landmark shift — and it’s not just Democrats
Microsoft’s “Copilot Tasks” AI uses its own computer to get things done
A copilot for your busywork.
Lenovo leak reveals a foldable gaming handheld that’s also a Windows laptop
The transformer of gaming handhelds.
ContextLogic Completes $907.5 Million Acquisition of US Salt, Marking Transformation into Business Ownership Platform
Transaction Creates Leading Public Business Ownership Platform with Strong Cash Generation and Approximately $2.9 Billion in NOLsOAKLAND, Calif., Feb. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ContextLogic Holdings Inc. (OTCQB: LOGC) (“ContextLogic,” the “Company,” “we” or “our”) today announced the successful completion of its acquisition of US Salt Parent Holdings, LLC and its subsidiaries (collectively, “US Salt”) from private equity funds managed by Emerald Lake Capital Management (“Emerald Lake”) in a t
NFLPA report cards leaked, Dolphins rank first again
The Dolphins have been ranked the best team to play for in the NFL in 2026.
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.
Woman suing Meta, YouTube over social media addiction expected to take stand at trial
A California woman is expected to testify in court on Thursday about how using Meta Platforms' Instagram and Google's YouTube as a child harmed her mental health, as her landmark trial in Los Angeles continues.
Google’s Nano Banana 2 brings advanced AI image tools to free users
Nano Banana 2: Electric Boogalo
MasterClass Launches MasterClass Executive, the First AI-Native Business School Experience
MasterClass, the personalized learning platform unlocking human potential with the world's best, today launched MasterClass Executive, the first business school experience for the AI era, built with the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and with collaboration from OpenAI.
Does the US have enough aircraft carriers for all Trump’s wars?
Want to threaten Iran? You’re going to need a bigger boat.
Exclusive: Third Way Health raises $15M for front-office AI
As many startups eye building AI platforms to break the "point solution" mold, Third Way is hoping providers hand over the keys to several admin tasks.
US democracy has repaired itself before. Here’s how we can do it again.
Every 60 years, America remakes itself. We’re due.
Platform Expand Launches Three Premium Business Expansion Services for International Companies Entering Canada
New subsidiary of Sparkcorpnet delivers comprehensive incorporation, market entry, and international trade solutions in Canada and US VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / February 25, 2026 /Platform Expand, a subsidiary brand of Sparkcorpnet, an international ...
Here’s how the new Samsung Galaxy S26 compares with last year’s S25
Shocker: they’re very similar.
Where to preorder all of Samsung’s new Galaxy S26 phones
The new lineup starts at $899.99.
Samsung’s still chasing the AirPods with its new Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro
Some improvements, but still mainly for Galaxy users.
I’m super impressed with the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s new Privacy Display
Keep wandering eyes away from your screen.
Spotify’s Smart Reorder treats your playlists like a DJ set
Spotify playlists get automated mixing.
Tubi Expands Teton Ridge Entertainment Partnership with New Sports Documentary Film "Gonzaga:The Slipper Still Fits"
SAN FRANCISCO – Tubi (www.tubi.tv), Fox Corporation's (NASDAQ: FOXA, FOX) free ad-supported streaming service, today announced the debut of sports documentary GONZAGA: THE SLIPPER STILL FITS as part of its exclusive partnership with Teton Ridge Entertainment. The documentary features a close look at one of college basketball's most impressive programs, focusing on the perennial Cinderella team that has become a powerhouse. The documentary premieres on Friday, March 6 as a Tubi Original.
Tubi Expands Teton Ridge Entertainment Partnership with New Sports Documentary Film "Gonzaga:The Slipper Still Fits"
SAN FRANCISCO – Tubi (www.tubi.tv), Fox Corporation's (NASDAQ: FOXA, FOX) free ad-supported streaming service, today announced the debut of sports documentary GONZAGA: THE SLIPPER STILL FITS as part of its exclusive partnership with Teton Ridge Entertainment. The documentary features a close look at one of college basketball's most impressive programs, focusing on the perennial Cinderella team that has become a powerhouse. The documentary premieres on Friday, March 6 as a Tubi Original.
We played Resident Evil Requiem, ask us anything
Yes, you should play with the lights on.
How Democrats reorganized their State of the Union resistance
The Democrats tried something new to rebut Trump’s address.
Adobe’s new AI video editing tool stitches clips into a first draft
A Quick Cut to get you started.
Platform Science Unveils Landmark Driver Experience Report on Pay, Technology, and Retention
SAN DIEGO, February 25, 2026--Platform Science, the leading connected vehicle platform, today released its inaugural Driver Experience Report, a nationwide survey of more than 1,100 commercial drivers on factors like pay and technology that most influence their job satisfaction. The report provides data-driven insights into truckers’ perspectives on topics like communication, compensation, safety, and long-term retention, establishing what Platform Science believes are the industry’s first bench
Kalshi Taps Standard Chartered’s Ross for Institutional Business
Prediction-markets platform Kalshi Inc. tapped the former head of prime and financing at Standard Chartered Plc to help build its business serving institutional investors, according to people with knowledge of the matter.
Did the Constitution doom American democracy?
In 2015, Matt Yglesias predicted America’s political system would collapse. Did Trump prove him right?
Healthcare Business Intelligence Market to Reach USD 20.04 Billion by 2035, Fueled by Value-Based Care Adoption and AI-Powered Analytics Innovation
Rising Demand for Predictive Analytics, Cloud-Based BI Platforms, and Regulatory Quality Reporting Requirements Accelerate Market Expansion Globally.Austin, United States, Feb. 25, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Healthcare Business Intelligence Market Size & Growth Analysis: “According to SNS Insider, The Healthcare Business Intelligence Market size is estimated at USD 8.32 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 20.04 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 9.19% over 2026-2035.” The growth of the
Honor’s new MagicPad 4 is the world’s thinnest Android tablet
At just 4.8mm thick, the MagicPad 4 is also thinner than Apple’s slimmest iPad.
Constantin Entertainment Produces First Vertical Dramas With Crisp
The German production-distribution powerhouse has just produced two series with 60 episodes each for international microdrama platform Crisp Momentum
Notre Dame Men’s Lacrosse Dominates Georgetown 15-9
Unless you were at the Loftus Center on Sunday, you were not able to see the Notre Dame Men’s Lacrosse team defeat Georgetown by a final score of 15-9. It was the rare occurrence where a top 10 matchup was nowhere to be found on any sort of TV or streaming platform. That’s rough and […]
$4B Gerber Kawasaki to Use Altruist for New Business
The RIA will also use Altruist’s AI platform, Hazel, which triggered a selloff in traditional wealth management stocks a few weeks ago.
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…
YouTube’s cheaper subscription is getting background play and downloads
YouTube “heard feedback” that users wanted the features.
Uber Health Launches Self-Booking Feature to Empower Riders and Streamline Operations
Industry-first capability reduces administrative burden for providers, health systems, and I/DD organizations while boosting rider independenceSAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Uber Health today announced the launch of its rider self-booking feature, a new platform capability that enables healthcare and disability service organizations to offer their riders the ability to book their own organization-funded trips directly in the Uber app. The launch marks the latest milestone in Ub
At HIMSS26, eClinicalWorks will introduce new AI API tool for EHRs
Its CEO says healthcare organizations must "mobilize" their electronic health record systems, using AI-enabled platforms to get tangible value from all the data they've been collecting for two decades.
First lady Melania and Donald Trump bringing separate guests to SOTU in break with precedent
First lady Melania Trump will bring guests to the State of the Union address representing her foster care and responsible AI platforms while President Donald Trump has invited his own set of guests – a move that marks a break from precedent.
Why Savannah Bananas Are Expanding Their ESPN Deal
The Savannah Bananas will have 25 games air on ESPN platforms in 2026, including the baseball entertainment team's ABC debut.
Story Health by Innovaccer Partners with Allina Health Minneapolis Heart Institute To Launch Virtual Heart Failure Management Program
SAN FRANCISCO, February 24, 2026--Innovaccer Inc., a leading healthcare AI company, today announced a strategic partnership with Allina Health Minneapolis Heart Institute’s Center for Healthcare Delivery Innovation to expand access to guideline-directed heart failure management across Minnesota and western Wisconsin. By using Story Health, Innovaccer’s virtual specialty care and patient monitoring platform, Allina Health Minneapolis Heart Institute will extend continuous Guideline-Directed Medic
Hims & Hers Health Fourth-Quarter Profit Falls Despite Higher Revenue
The telehealth platform posted a quarterly profit of $20.6 million, down from $26 million a year earlier.
Apple’s newest AirTags are already on sale if you’re looking to upgrade
How does five AirTags for the price of four sound?
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.
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.
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.
Hims & Hers Health, Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Financial Results
Revenue of approximately $2.35 billion, up 59% year-over-year in 2025 Net income of $128 million; Adjusted EBITDA of $318 million in 2025 Subscribers grew to over 2.5 million, up 13% year-over-year in 2025 Provides Q1 and full year 2026 guidance1, with full year 2026 revenue in the range of $2.7 billion to $2.9 billion and Adjusted EBITDA in the range of $300 million to $375 million Hims Hers Health, Inc. (“Hims Hers” or the “Company”, NYSE: HIMS), the leading health and wellness platform, today announced financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2025 in a shareholder letter that is posted at investors.hims.com. “More than 2.5 million subscribers now rely on us for a healthcare experience that is both accessible and deeply personal – and we believe we’re well on our way to becoming the global leader in consumer health,” said Andrew Dudum, co-founder and CEO. “In 2025, we made it possible for more customers across the world to depend on us
How to stop a dictator
I spent months studying how authoritarians like Trump lose. The answer is shockingly simple.
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
Jim Cramer Believes Meta’s (META) Developing Its Own Cloud Business
We recently published 10 Stocks On Jim Cramer’s Mind & His Thoughts On Enterprise AI. Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META) is one of the stocks on Jim Cramer’s mind. Social media giant Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META)’s shares are down by 4% over the past year and are flat year-to-date. Earlier this week, the firm made an […]
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