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Hillary Clinton testifies she didn’t know Epstein
The former secretary of state said that she never met Epstein and was being used as a prop in ‘partisan political theater’
Rise Brands scraps plan to revive Bogey Inn site with entertainment campus
Plans to transform the historic Bogey Inn property into a sprawling entertainment campus are no longer moving forward.
Samsung confirms satellite connectivity for Galaxy S26 and older Galaxy devices
As satellite connectivity has started to become a more standard offering in smartphones, Samsung is finally adding proper support with...
Proposed Data Breach Mandate Sparks New Business Risks » CBIA
Troubling new legislation proposes a significant change to how businesses must respond to “massive” data breach incidents.
Which young pitchers will propel the Yankees in 2026?
Which young pitcher will prove to be the biggest boost to the Yankee staff this year?
Ducks spend morning teaching science to nearly 7,000 students
On Thursday, students watched Ducks players practice on the ice, who then led demonstrations of the properties of electricity and circuitry.
The Pentagon is demanding to use Claude AI as it pleases. Claude told me that's 'dangerous'
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has threatened Anthropic, the maker of Claude AI, that if it doesn't turn over full use of the powerful tool by Friday, the company will face severe repercussions.
EastGroup Properties Announces Recent Business Activity and Participation in Upcoming Conference
EastGroup Properties, Inc. (NYSE: EGP) (the "Company", "we", "our", "us" or "EastGroup") announced today its recent business activity and participation in an upcoming conference.
LHSAA's one-time transfer rule voted on by schools at annual convention
The one-time transfer rule and other proposals were voted on at the LHSAA Annual Convention on Thursday.
The End of Language As We Know It? Scientists Challenge 60 Years of Linguistic Research
An international team proposes replacing Hockett’s feature checklist with a model of language as a dynamic, multimodal, and socially evolving system.
Scientists Say Most Snake Species Are Cannibals, Breaking a Basic Law of Nature
A study analyzed 503 documented cases of serpent cannibalism and found that the behavior can be seen in different snakes across the world in different contexts, whether between mates, siblings, or rivals.
To fight ‘inherent distrust,’ Utah lawmakers say lieutenant governor shouldn’t run elections
Following false claims of election fraud, Utah lawmakers are advancing a proposal to remove election oversight from the lieutenant governor's office.
Murfreesboro Entertainment Landmark Lanes, Trains and Automobiles to Close After 15 Years
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WGNS) — A long-standing pillar of the Rutherford County family entertainment scene is preparing to take its final bow. Lanes, Trains and Automobiles (LTA Depot) has officially announced it will shutter its Murfreesboro operations this spring, marking the end of an era that spanned more than a decade and a half. The decision to close follows a shift in the ownership of the property where the facility is located. According to a statement from the business, the current l ...
Bronx lawmaker pushes to take NYC health data dashboards nationwide
The proposal would fund 25 communities to create similar systems.
University of Kentucky proposes entertainment district near Kroger Field
The University of Kentucky is taking action with plans for a new entertainment district around Kroger Field.
University of Kentucky proposes entertainment district near Kroger Field
The University of Kentucky is taking action with plans for a new entertainment district around Kroger Field.
New A.C.A. Plans Could Increase Family Deductibles to $31,000
The Trump administration is proposing Obamacare plans that it says will lower health insurance premiums. But critics warn they would make care unaffordable.
The MOST Effective Thermal Mass Works Like A Sunburn
Way, way back in the days when men wore beards and wide-lapelled suits in exotic colors, only NASA had access to photovoltaics and ‘solar’ meant solar thermal. In those days of appropri…
Australia's Star Entertainment agrees on refinancing terms with WhiteHawk
Australia's Star Entertainment said on Thursday it has reached an agreement for a non-binding term sheet with U.S.-based private credit investment manager WhiteHawk Capital Partners for proposed refinancing of its debt.
SC lawmakers weigh SNAP limits on eligible foods amid health push
South Carolina lawmakers are weighing a proposal that could permanently limit what people can buy with SNAP benefits, setting up a debate over public health goa
Sources: NCAA football committee considering 7-figure fines, head coach suspensions for transfer violations
The NCAA Football Oversight Committee coalesced around several concepts related to the calendar and transfers, including a proposal to impose stiff penalties on schools that accept transfers outside of the portal window.
Top WA chambers, business associations respond to proposed $2B spending increase
(The Center Square) – Some of the most prominent chambers of commerce and business associations in Washington state are advising caution around proposals to increase state spending by roughly $2 billi...
3 more questions Tampa Sports Authority has for Rays stadium deal
Board members asked about possible property tax reform, funding shortfalls and affordable housing.
Boutique hotel catering to gay travelers proposed for Northalsted
The proposal highlights the North Side neighborhood's profile as a key tourism magnet for the city.
Britain's John Lewis Partnership to withdraw from build to rent business
British retailer the John Lewis Partnership said on Wednesday it is withdrawing from its Build to Rent property business, blaming a "fundamental shift" in the economic conditions that underpinned the venture when it launched in 2020.
NFL receives no tush push ban proposal this year after effort to ban it failed
League executive Troy Vincent told reporters at the scouting combine in Indianapolis that the deadline for submissions has passed.
Medtronic’s diabetes business MiniMed looks for $784m in US IPO
The proposed IPO could see MiniMed offer 28m shares as the company looks to reach profitability independently of Medtronic.
Voters react as Trump calls Dems 'crazy' for not applauding ban on secret teen gender transitions
Voters react in real time as President Donald Trump calls Democrats “crazy" during his State of the Union over a proposed ban on school gender transitions.
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.
US to end health aid to Zimbabwe after funding talks collapse
The U.S. is to wind down health assistance to Zimbabwe after the African country withdrew from talks on a proposed $367 million bilateral funding deal.
Zimbabwe exits health funding talks with US
The U.S. is to wind down health assistance to Zimbabwe after the African country withdrew from talks on a proposed $367 million bilateral funding deal.
Columbus budget cuts would hurt health centers serving low-income and poor
Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther's proposed 2026 budget cuts to PrimaryOne Health jeopardize services for low-income and uninsured patients.
Trump touts his health care proposal, which hasn’t made headway in Congress yet
President Donald Trump touted his health care proposal that he brought to congressional Republicans in January.
Waukee sports complex for sale; legal dispute continues over nonprofit status, property tax
The Kettlestone Central Sports Complex in Waukee is up for sale following a legal dispute over its nonprofit status and property tax exemption.
Tracking the length of Trump’s State of the Union speech compared with past presidents
President Donald Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address to the 119th Congress is likely to be lengthy. Trump is expected to address the nation’s most pressing issues and the impact of his administration’s proposed policies.
Inequities are plaguing the city's property tax system
Commissioners and experts have suggested overhauling the system.
GVA Files Rule 202 Petition Against Bryan Kastleman Over Alleged Defamation, Business Interference
AUSTIN, TX / ACCESS Newswire / February 24, 2026 / GVA Property Management, an Austin-based multifamily real estate investment and operating company, today announced that it has filed a Rule 202 petition seeking pre-suit discovery concerning former ...
The University of Kentucky provides Updates to proposed entertainment district
The University of Kentucky has released four options for a proposed entertainment district that would surround Kroger Field.
Greeley voters decide future of proposed entertainment district in special election
Greeley voters are weighing in on a proposed entertainment district that could significantly shape the city’s future.
Maine hospitals, health reform advocates spar over proposed bill to regulate prices
Advocates say the proposed bill would improve health affordability. Hospital executives say it could lead to closures and service losses, if passed.
West Seattle businesses voice concerns over proposed RV safe lot, tiny home village
Doubts are running deep among a group of businesses in West Seattle where a combined RV safe parking lot and tiny house village could soon open as part of the c
Mobile council set to back sports Hall of Fame exhibit with $500,000 boost
The city's appropriation would support an $800,000 interactive sports museum inside the RSA Tower and near the $11 million Hall of Fame Walk.
How does politics influence interpretive signs at National Park Service sites?
The Trump administration recently ordered the National Park Service to remove interpretive signs that discuss slavery at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, following an executive order issued last year stating that public monuments should not “inappropriately disparage Americans” and instead “focus on the greatness of the achievements and progress of the American people.” A […]
Oura launches a proprietary AI model focused on women's health
The model supports questions spanning the full reproductive health spectrum, from early menstrual cycles through menopause.
Oura launches a proprietary AI model focused on women's health
The model supports questions spanning the full reproductive health spectrum, from early menstrual cycles through menopause.
What the New Kroger Field Entertainment District could look like
Kentucky is pursuing the construction of an entertainment district near Kroger Field. There are four proposals for the major project.
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.
Zimbabwe rejects $350 million US health funding deal warns It threatens national sovereignty
Zimbabwe has ended negotiations on a US-backed health agreement after President Mnangagwa deemed the proposal a threat to national sovereignty, citing concerns over data access, mineral linkages and Washington’s retreat from multilateral health frameworks
Chris Powell aims to transform the health of the country and beyond with 'TransformNation'
Appropriately titled, "TransformNation," the free YouTube series debuted a few weeks ago and has already seen huge success.
Can solar storms trigger earthquakes? Scientists propose surprising link
Scientists have proposed a surprising connection between solar flares and earthquakes. When solar activity disturbs the ionosphere, it may generate electric fields that penetrate fragile fracture zones in Earth’s crust. If a fault is already critically stressed, this extra electrostatic pressure could help trigger a quake. The idea doesn’t claim direct causation, but it offers a fresh way to think about how space weather and seismic events might interact.
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
HMSA Proposal: Hawaiʻi Health Care Could See Radical Transformation
Changes could touch 760,000 HMSA members and their doctors.
Houston’s Kelvin Sampson reacts to getting humbled by tough schedule
Houston coach Kelvin Sampson gave proper credit to Kansas after their much-anticipated matchup at Allen Fieldhouse on Monday.
Swedish business leader Ehnbom proposed Epstein meet women she mentored, emails show
Barbro Ehnbom, known in Sweden for programs to boost female leadership, forwarded photos and suggested meetings.
Special election could delay large Greeley entertainment district development
Voters in Greeley will decide Tuesday whether to repeal already-approved zoning for a massive entertainment district and housing development on the city’s western edge. The proposed development spans...
KEA asks for lawmaker pledge against rising health insurance costs
The KEA and state retirement groups are the latest to sound the alarm over a state budget proposal that Republicans maintain is still a work in progress that needs more information.
NYC mayor threatens property tax hike, raising concerns for businesses
Partnership for New York City president and CEO Steve Fulop discusses the city’s budget shortfall and Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s proposed property tax hike on ‘The Claman Countdown.’
Amendment 49: Corrections to C.13 Science Transport and Robotic Innovation for Deployment and Exploration
C.13 Science Transport and Robotic Innovation for Deployment and Exploration (STRIDE) solicits proposals from U.S. industry to conduct design studies of
Four questions with Tennessee Finance Commissioner Jim Bryson
With governor's proposal in hand, state's top finance official talks through it
Expert believes USC has gotten its coaching staff right
Gary Patterson and Lincoln Riley should be the coaching duo that will propel the Trojans into contention - so says CFB analyst Joel Klatt
Republicans see political gold in Mamdani property tax proposal
Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s (D) “last-resort” proposal to raise property taxes in New York City has political observers questioning whether his gambit to get New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) to back a wea…
Trump’s approval rating with independents hits a new low ahead of the State of the Union
When President Donald Trump gives his State of the Union address Tuesday, he will face a public that increasingly questions his priorities and expresses broad doubts about whether his proposed policies are helping the nation, according to a new CNN poll conducted by SSRS.
Mike Wampold has developed properties across the region. He's bullish on Baton Rouge.
Developer Mike Wampold has a vast portfolio that includes hotels, apartments, office buildings and an 1800-acre planned community. His focus these days is on Baton Rouge, where he sees untapped potential.
Politics Without Politicians by Hélène Landemore review – power to the people
Can a radical proposal to get rid of career politicians really be implemented?
NFL not expecting any tush push ban proposal this offseason after years of criticism, controversy
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
Double-phase metasurface operators for all-optical image processing
Light: Science & Applications - We propose metasurface operators leveraging double-phase encoding and polarization multiplexing enable compact, all-optical analog computing for high-resolution...
Uniting to respond to mental health impacts of digital violence
Technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV), from doxxing and cyberstalking to cyberbullying and online harassment, is reshaping how women and girls navigate digital spaces. Globally, an estimated 23% of women have experienced digital violence. In Indonesia, reported cases of TFGBV reached 1,791 in 2024, a 40.8% increase from the previous year. Yet very few survivors seek help, leaving lasting effects on their mental health and wellbeing. As part of the multi-UN agencies UNiTE campaign for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health (MoH) co-hosted a talk show on 6 December 2025 to spotlight this urgent issue. The event brought together voices from Meta, the Indonesian Clinical Psychologist Association and Dr Vivi Syarif, a WHO Fides content creator, creating a cross-sectoral dialogue on the magnitude and mental health impact of digital violence. The talk show introduced psychological first aid as a vital initial intervention that communities can provide to survivors. This intervention aligns with the Psychological First Aid: Guide for Field Workers, a framework that has been standardized for over a decade. The "look, listen, link" approach focuses on ensuring safety and urgent needs, reassuring survivors and connecting them to appropriate services. In addition to this public health approach, Meta also outlined mechanisms to respond to digital violence and reaffirmed its commitment to building safer digital spaces by continuously updating community guidelines based on user feedback. Such collaborative discussions help connect community engagement initiatives with daily digital life. They empower audiences not only to understand how the health sector and industry are responding, but also to educate others, promote first-line support and encourage referrals to appropriate help. By fostering awareness and engagement, these dialogues strengthen collective resilience against digital violence. Written by Jessie O. Yunus, National Professional Officer (Gender, Equity, Rights and Disability Inclusion), WHO Indonesia
Trump Considers Targeted Strike Against Iran, Followed by Larger Attack
The top negotiators plan to meet in Geneva on Thursday for last-ditch talks, debating a new proposal that could create an off-ramp as two carrier groups massed within striking distance of Iran.
Trump Considers Targeted Strike Against Iran, Followed by Larger Attack
The top negotiators plan to meet in Geneva on Thursday for last-ditch talks, debating a new proposal that could create an off-ramp as two carrier groups massed within striking distance of Iran.
USA star Jack Hughes writes special message on Olympic sports card
Jack Hughes has propelled himself into a new strata of superstar status in Milan Cortina and now his one-of-one Olympic sports card is about to become an expensive piece of history. The Team USA gold medal winner scored the decisive…
Supreme Court wades into US-Cuba business disputes, with billions at stake
The U.S. Supreme Court is set to explore legal questions arising from the fraught history of U.S.-Cuban relations when it considers the scope of a 1996 law that lets U.S. nationals seek compensation for property confiscated by the communist-led Cuban government.
Woodland Park business forced to close after mold contamination discovery
Hunt & Homestead Marketplace in Woodland Park closes due to mold contamination as owner proposes new landlord safety requirements to city council.
After Indiana gambit, Bears signal progress in Illinois
The back and forth comes as the team tries to advance legislation in two states without making public comments that could sour relationships or scuttle talks on either side of the border.
Lawmakers consider property tax cap as mayors, business owners clash over impact
Some business owners say rising tax rates are forcing them to make tough decisions about staying open.
Scientists propose new plan to 'catch' comet 3I/ATLAS — but we have to act fast
A new study explores the challenges of catching interstellar comets like comet 3I/ATLAS
I quit Airbnb and delisted my home after hosting nightmare guests
Wendy Martin's Airbnb property in Dayton, Ohio, made her money and she enjoyed hosting — until three bad experiences with guests made her quit.
N.Y. health commissioner highlights key points of state budget proposal
The New York state budget is constitutionally mandated to be passed by April 1.
Salt Lake City revisits business nuisance ordinance following significant adjustments
Utah's capital city is revisiting a proposed ordinance that seeks to tackle issues with problem businesses, but with significant changes after the initial effort ran into complaints.
Sacramento City Unified board votes to cut mental health positions amid budget deficit
The Sacramento City Unified School District board voted Thursday to eliminate approximately 26 mental health and nursing positions while rejecting a proposal to cut preschool teaching roles.
Louisiana reaches $45 million settlement with CVS Health, ending lawsuits
The state had accused CVS Health of “unfair, deceptive and unlawful” business practices for using customer information to conduct a text message campaign last year against proposed legislation for pharmacy benefits managers.
Kansas Senate maneuvers to limit business operators' liability in negligence lawsuits
Kansas Senate passes bill restricting property owners' negligence liability if a person claiming injury was harmed while intending to commit a crime.
South Carolina Hospitals Aren’t Required to Disclose Measles-Related Admissions. That Leaves Doctors in the Dark.
Physicians across South Carolina, home to the largest measles outbreak in decades, are advising patients without the benefit of real-time data on hospitalizations due to measles-related pneumonia, brain swelling and other serious complications.
Trump warns he's considering limited strikes as Iranian diplomat says proposed deal is imminent
President Donald Trump has warned that limited strikes against Iran are possible even as the country’s top diplomat says Tehran expects to have a proposed deal ready in the next few days following nuclear talks with the U.S. Trump’s remarks Friday came a few hours after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi said on MSNOW’s “Morning Joe” show that his country was planning to finalize a draft deal in “the next two to three days” to then send to Washington
NY scraps proposal to legalize driverless robotaxis in blow to Waymo
New York's governor dropped a proposal to allow unmanned robotaxis, days after Waymo raised $16 billion to fund its expansion to more cities in the US.
Chicago Bears take key step in proposed Indiana stadium move
The Chicago Bears on Thursday hailed the "most meaningful step" yet toward building a new stadium in Indiana, as the neighboring state passed a key measure to entice the NFL franchise to make a divisive cross-border move.Bears president and chief executive Kevin Warren warned in December that Indiana had become a serious option, and on Thursday the state unanimously passed a bill allowing it to issue bonds for the financing and construction of a new stadium.
UH proposes professor checklist for courses to prevent advocacy of politics, ideology
The proposal comes after the University of Houston faced backlash for asking professors to sign an agreement not to indoctrinate students.
Demolition tears into Portland suburb mall to make way for sports center, major renovation
Contractors have fenced off the Tigard shopping mall’s southern parking lot in recent weeks and are tearing into the property’s fortress-like walls where Sears used to operate.
Merkley joins senators to propose Corporate Crimes Against Health Care Act
Oregon senator Jeff Merkley, a vocal critic of private equity in health care, has joined five other senators to introduce the "Corporate Crimes Against Health C
Insurer Agrees to Pay Millions for Failing to Fix Errors That Made It Harder for Customers to Get Mental Health Care
EmblemHealth will compensate customers who paid out of pocket for mental health care because they couldn’t secure an appointment with a provider listed as being in-network. It also pledged to take additional steps to fix its provider directory.
Solar flares may be triggering earthquakes, controversial study claims
Researchers have proposed that changes in Earth's ionosphere could trigger electrical forces that nudge fragile areas of the crust into creating an earthquake.
After leaving WHO, Trump officials propose more expensive replacement to duplicate it
HHS proposes spending $2 billion a year to re-create systems the U.S. accessed through the WHO at a fraction of the cost, according to officials briefed on the matter.
Pickleball company buys West Loop ice rink near United Center
Pickleball company SPF bought the 22,000-square-foot Johnny's IceHouse East property at 1350-1354 W. Madison St. in the West Loop, near the United Center.
Elemental Royalty Closes the Sale of Its Nordic Business Unit to Goldsky Resources
Denver, Colorado--(Newsfile Corp. - February 19, 2026) - Elemental Royalty Corporation (TSXV: ELE) (NASDAQ: ELE) ("Elemental" or "the Company") is pleased to announce the closing of the previously announced sale of its Nordic operational platform to Goldsky Resources Corp. (TSXV: GSKR) ("Goldsky") (see the EMX Royalty News Release dated June 2, 2025). Goldsky, formerly known as First Nordic Metals Corp., is a longstanding partner and operator on multiple Elemental royalty properties in Sweden...
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Healthy life expectancy falls across Scotland
New figures show people in Scotland are spending a greater proportion of their life in poor health than previously.
UK plans to buy prominent corner property near campus, possibly for entertainment district
Coliseum Plaza purchase could pave the way for UK athletic fan district and future development projects.
Federal proposal limiting foreign scientists at Boulder lab disrupts Colorado’s quantum industry
A proposed update to a federal security policy on government-funded research could shut out non-US associates from the federal lab after March
UK plans to buy prominent corner property near campus, possibly for entertainment district
Coliseum Plaza purchase could pave the way for UK athletic fan district and future development projects.
O'Toole 'grateful' for chance to play loose-head
Prop Tom O'Toole says he wants to take the opportunity to play loose-head for Ireland "with both hands".