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After CDC vaccine changes, states push to keep childhood shots free, accessible
Proposed legislation raises concern over “fractured” vaccine policies across the U.S.
Why Netflix Actually Won Even Though It Lost Warner Deal
The king of streaming preserves its business model, while Paramount Skydance will have to deal with a massive postmerger debt load.
‘Trump’s not enough. And he knows he’s not enough’: California governor Gavin Newsom on populism, ‘purity tests’ and whether he’ll run for the presidency
He’s the Democratic politician with movie-star looks and a picture-perfect family, dogged by accusations of being a smooth‑talking elitist. Can he really unite the American left and win the most powerful office in the world?
Scientists Uncover the Secret Structure Behind “Nature’s Proton Highway”
By freezing a crucial phosphoric acid complex to near absolute zero, scientists uncovered a single, unexpectedly stable structure at the heart of proton transport.
Glyphosate is driving a rift in MAHA. Here’s what the science says about its effects on health
The Trump administration wants to boost manufacturing of glyphosate, the world’s most common weed killer. Here’s what that could mean for health
Glyphosate is driving a rift in MAHA. Here’s what the science says about its effects on health
The Trump administration wants to boost manufacturing of glyphosate, the world’s most common weed killer. Here’s what that could mean for health
Nintendo Announces $70 Mini Game Boy That's Designed to Be a Jukebox, With Dozens of Cartridges That Play Pokémon Music From 30 Years Ago
Buried between fresh footage of Pokémon Pokopia and today's truly momentous Gen 10 announcement for Pokémon Winds and Waves, Nintendo announced a miniature version of its legendary Game Boy — that's actually a kind of retro jukebox.
Inherited diseases don't work like we thought they did
"Monogenic" diseases, triggered by mutations in just one gene, may actually be more complex than scientists thought.
Bethesda Is Quietly Rebuilding Fallout 76's Foundation With The Backwoods | Preview
A new structure separates solo friendly content from multiplayer public events while adding dynamic encounters to keep runs unpredictable.
College football's 26 most important games of the 2026 season, from Miami-Notre Dame to Ohio State-Indiana
The 2026 schedule is loaded with matchups that figure to shape the College Football Playoff picture
Science is political
In my very first biology class here at Case Western Reserve University, we covered a brief history of evolutionary science. During this lecture, we learned about Aristotle and his form of evolutionary thinking, which is a simple ranking of all living organisms. This was dubbed the scala naturae, or the “Great Chain of Being,” and...
Two ETSU lectures highlight health and humanities
ETSU’s 2025-26 Great Lecture Series concludes on March 6 with lectures by Drs. Brandi Eveland-Sayers and Scott Honeycutt.
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?
Jack Dorsey's mea culpa on Block layoffs: 'We overhired'
The Block CEO says a structural misstep and pandemic-era overhiring prompted him to slash nearly half the company's staff on Thursday.
The question Joe Biden keeps asking: ‘You think we can actually come back from this?’
The line Joe Biden used to put into nearly every big speech — “I’ve never been more optimistic about America’s future” — is a long way from what he says in private now.
Sunway Healthcare launches prospectus for up to $736 million IPO
Sunway Healthcare Holding on Friday launched the prospectus for its initial public offering that is expected to raise up to 2.86 billion ringgit ($735.98 million) in what could be Malaysia's largest listing in almost a decade.
Hands-On With Nano Banana 2, the Latest Version of Google's AI Image Generator
Google’s latest image model, Nano Banana 2, is a powerful AI photo editor that punctures reality. Well, sometimes.
Birmingham VA Health Care System Announces Facility Upgrades
The Birmingham VA Health Care System has announced a series of infrastructure upgrades aimed at supporting safe and effective patient care.The projects are part
Structural damage from fire forces lengthy closure of local business
The Rabbit Hole Bookstore in Dayton remains closed following a Feb. 12 fire that triggered an emergency evacuation order from city officials.
Structural damage from fire forces lengthy closure of local business
"This really did feel like we were getting kind of cut off at the knees here."
Sebastopol business owner ousted after allegations of sexual assault, financial coercion surface
Jonathan Pinkston, an owner of Soft Medicine Sanctuary in Sebastopol, has been ousted from the business after allegations of assault and financial coercion.
EGLE says pellet spill poses no public health risk as Kalamazoo River cleanup continues
Thousands of pounds of plastic pellets, known as nurdles, spilled along I-196 and into the Kalamazoo River near Saugatuck almost a month ago.
Jim Cramer on International Business Machines: “Astonishing Decline for a Company That Is Actually Doing Quite Well”
International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM) is one of the stocks Jim Cramer commented on. Cramer noted the stock’s recent decline, as he remarked: Yesterday, Anthropic put out something that sounded like it could hurt IBM, and IBM stock lost over 13% like this. It was one of the worst declines in ages. IBM has the […]
Bombardier has chance to boost business jet sales in India, says CEO
MONTREAL, Feb 26 () - India's efforts to improve its airport infrastructure will give Bombardier a chance to boost sales of business jets there, chief executive officer Eric Martel told reporters on Thursday. (Reporting by Allison Lampert, editing by David Ljunggren).
Variety Announces 2026 Entertainment Marketing Summit Program Featuring Tina Knowles and Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group Co-Chair Pam Abdy
Variety has announced the first speakers for the 2026 Entertainment Marketing Summit, presented by Deloitte, on April 22 in Los Angeles, including Tina Knowles and Warner Bros Motion Picture Group co-...
Variety Announces 2026 Entertainment Marketing Summit Programming
The summit on April 22, presented by Deloitte, will feature keynotes with Tina Knowles and Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group Co-Chair Pam Abdy
Variety Announces 2026 Entertainment Marketing Summit Program Featuring Tina Knowles and Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group Co-Chair Pam Abdy
Variety has announced the first speakers for the 2026 Entertainment Marketing Summit, presented by Deloitte, on April 22 in Los Angeles, including Tina Knowles and Warner Bros Motion Picture Group co-...
Despite the constant ‘job apocalypse’ warnings, computer science graduates are actually on track to earn $81,000 right out of college
New data suggests that fears about the demise of computer science majors may be overblown—with demand outpacing MBAs and starting salaries growing year-over-year.
Covington Municipal Airport Partners with Air Charter Advisors to Expand Business Aviation Access
Strategic collaboration streamlines on-demand private jet travel for East Atlanta's growing industrial and film production sectors.Covington, Georgia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 26, 2026) - Covington Municipal Airport (KCVC) has announced a formal partnership with Air Charter Advisors to coordinate on-demand private aviation services from its Newton County facility. The agreement strengthens transportation infrastructure for the region's expanding bioscience, advanced manufacturing, and film...
Epstein and the politics of distraction
Scandal individualises corruption, creating a spectacle that redirects anger away from structural power.
NFL offseason trade candidates; James Harden out due to fractured thumb
Plus, Sidney Crosby will miss at least four weeks after being injured at the Olympics
Jody Allen to football guys amid Seahawks sale: Business as usual ‘let’s rip it’
Nothing changes this offseason into defense of the Super Bowl title, the team’s chair tells GM John Schneider and coach Mike Macdonald.
Lenovo Legion Go Fold concept leaks with 7.7-inch to 11.6-inch folding POLED display, Lunar Lake SoC
Legion Go Fold concept to be presented next month We have just received a tip from Windows Latest that they have just shared the first pictures of
The more you fear aging, the faster your body may age
Worrying about getting older—especially fearing future health problems—may actually speed up aging at the cellular level, according to new research from NYU. In a study of more than 700 women, those who felt more anxious about aging showed signs of faster biological aging in their blood, measured using cutting-edge “epigenetic clocks.” Fears about declining health had the strongest link, while concerns about beauty or fertility didn’t appear to have the same biological impact.
WPP's turnaround plan: 3 key takeaways on what it means for staff
There are big changes ahead at WPP. The British ad group is simplifying its structure and planning hundreds of millions of dollars in cost savings.
Top manufacturing leader meets with Wisconsin companies at Rockwell
NAM leaders met at Rockwell Automation to discuss tariffs, inflation, and policy, highlighting optimism and federal policy uncertainty.
How A.I.-Generated Videos Are Distorting Your Child’s YouTube Feed
Experts caution that low-quality, A.I.-generated videos on YouTube geared toward children often feature conflicting information, lack plot structure and can be cognitively overwhelming — all of which could affect young children’s development.
A Look At Corteva (CTVA) Valuation After Earnings Miss And Planned Business Separation
Why Corteva’s restructuring plans are in focus Corteva (CTVA) is back on investors’ radar after its recent earnings report, where revenue came in below expectations and management outlined plans to separate the Seed and Crop Chemicals businesses. At the same time, UBS and JPMorgan downgraded the stock, pointing to execution risks around the breakup and a more cautious outlook. This is helping shape how the market is reassessing Corteva’s story right now. See our latest analysis for...
HSBC kicks off Singapore insurance business sale, eyes over $1 billion value, sources say
HSBC has started the sale process for its Singapore life insurance product manufacturing business with the hiring of an adviser, and is hoping for the deal to be valued at more than $1 billion, said three sources with knowledge of the matter.
NFL Confidential: Who is Actually the Best Player in 2026 Draft? Execs, Scouts Differ
Who is the best player in the 2026 NFL Draft? Ten executives and scouts around the league differed between four players: Fernando Mendoza, Caleb Downs, Arvell Reese and Jeremiyah Love.
Bowser, Commanders talk new stadium impacts, push for businesses to get involved
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and Commanders President Mark Clouse emphasized that design, infrastructure work and contracting for the new roofed stadium are already underway, with the project poised to anchor a broader year‑round destination ahead of the 2030 season.
Missouri and Kansas families pay nearly 10% of their income on employer-provided health insurance
A new report found that nearly 10% of median household income in Missouri and Kansas goes toward deductibles and premiums. At that level, economists say those households are underinsured.
Despite Backlash, Payton Pritchard-Caitlin Clark Comparison Was Accurate
Reggie Miller's comp received a ton of criticism, but it was actually spot-on.
College of Arts and Architecture’s Art Business Idea Competition accepting entries
The College of Arts and Architecture's Arts Business Idea Competition — the college’s annual showcase of arts entrepreneurship — is accepting entries through April 1.
Bracketology: UConn still has challengers for fourth No. 1 seed, can Purdue or Iowa State make a charge?
Here is how the NCAA Tournament picture is shaping up entering Wednesday night's action
Kennedy is funding dangerous science to validate his anti-vaccine agenda
The fact that the U.S. actually sanctioned the study is deeply troubling.
New NFIB Survey Shows Rise in Industry-Specific Small Business Optimism
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 25, 2026) – The NFIB Research Center released an industry-specific quarterly Small Business Economic Trends survey highlighting the construction, manufacturing, retail, and services industries. According to the report, the Optimism Index increased from the previous quarter for
From campus to community: UCSC brings science to the neighborhood to spark local dialogue
UC Santa Cruz has launched a lecture series that takes researchers out of the lab and into neighborhoods to provide the public with a clearer understanding of cutting-edge science.
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.
Despite likening new Xbox head's job to a "palliative care doctor", original co-creator doesn't actually think Xbox is dead
Seamus Blackley, one of the co-creators of the original Xbox, has assured the community he doesn't actually think Xbox is "dead".
Stephen Hawking pictured in Epstein files
The released documents shed light on Epstein’s attempts to cultivate the academic elite, including the physicist, who attended a conference funded by the financier
Chiefs GM Brett Veach looking to extend CB Trent McDuffie
The Kansas City Chiefs have been clearing up cap space to make moves for the 2026 offseason as they recently restructured Patrick Mahomes’ contract and released defensive end Mike Danna.
40,000-year-old signs show humans were recording information long before writing
More than 40,000 years ago, Ice Age humans were carving repeated patterns of dots, lines, and crosses into tools and small ivory figurines. A new computational study of more than 3,000 of these Paleolithic signs reveals that they were not random decorations but structured sequences with measurable complexity. Surprisingly, their information density rivals that of proto-cuneiform, the earliest known writing system that emerged around 3,000 B.C.E.
[CROI 2026] aidsmap: The war on science: resisting and rebuilding at a crucial juncture
“We all knew Trump’s second term would be worse than his first. But few of us were prepared for the level of destruction – and the speed of it...”
ASU's Beyond Center explores the intersection of science and philosophy
The Beyond Center hosts lectures and events to inform the public about its investigations of science and philosophy.
NIH-supported trial reduces HIV incidence by 70% in rural populations
Study used technology to extend reach of existing infrastructure, linking people to care.
Self-defense company finds major benefits after moving manufacturing from overseas to US
Byrna Technologies CEO Bryan Ganz moved manufacturing from South Africa to Indiana before President Donald Trump's tariffs, saying the company "correctly surmised" onshoring benefits.
The war on science: resisting and rebuilding at a crucial juncture
Peter Staley’s talk at the opening session of the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI 2026) in Denver was a grim post-mortem of one of the most challenging years in recent HIV history – an ‘annus horribilis’ – a phrase Queen Elizabeth II used to describe 1992 and The Lancet applied to 2025.
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.
What could Kroger Field entertainment district look like? Here are four options
During UK’s Board of Trustees meetings last week, the university provided the first glimpse of what a fan entertainment district near the football stadium could look like.
"Microsoft wants a turnaround and is worried about losing Xbox" - Insider report paints a different picture of Phil Spencer's retirement and Sarah Bond's sudden departure
Could this be a genuine reset and potential comeback?
MTU Aero Engines Expects Commercial Business to Boost 2026 Revenue
The aircraft-engine manufacturer forecasts higher revenue this year with particularly strong gains in its commercial series business.
The need for science diplomacy in a fragmenting world
After receiving a US science diplomacy prize, Chemistry World talks to Martyn Poliakoff and Richard Catlow about global scientific challenges, their love of technicians and being astounded by children's questions
Local Aerospace Manufacturer Expanding Business, Seeking Employees
Aerospace manufacturer, Turbo Machined Products, is expanding its product line. That means more jobs in Frankfort.
Adolescent Social Health May Foretell Loneliness, Aggressive Behavior, Study Suggests
Teens who are lonely and those who experience conflict in their home life are more likely to act aggressively toward peers or become victims themselves. These are some of the findings in a new University of California, Davis, study that creates a detailed picture of children’s social lives by identifying patterns and predictors of adolescent social health.
How have you been affected by tariffs?
During the past year, President Donald Trump has imposed sweeping and steep tariffs on most imported goods with the intent to reduce trade deficits and bolster US-based manufacturing.
5 best small business credit cards for perks you’ll actually use in 2026
From lounge access to credits on tech purchases, these credit cards have your business covered.
2026 Business Leaders of the Year
Central Massachusetts is full of amazing professionals, each with their own unique skills, talents, and dedication to their companies, industries, and communities. You could make a strong case for hundreds of them to be considered as WBJ’s Business Leader of the Year. Yet, to actually win the award, you need to have that little something extra: a magic spark, an insight no one else sees, years of knowledge that pay off with the right decision at the right time, a leadership style inspiring people to follow, a push for a paradigm shift at a stagnant organization. Business Leader of the Year is WBJ’s oldest award, launched in 1982 when Herb Dunnington of First Safety Fund Bank won the sole award. In the decades since, BLOY has expanded to honor winners from different corners of the economy: small businesses, large businesses, nonprofits, innovation, families. Each of the six winners this year has that something special setting them apart as true leaders in our Central Massachusetts business community: Neelu Mohaghegh’s creativity, Nick Haritos’ compassion, Nicolette Sacco’s adaptability, Julie Bowditch’s energy, Sean Rose’s steadiness, the Vaccaro family’s culture. You can read more about each of them through the links below.
AbbVie to invest $380 million to expand US manufacturing in Illinois
AbbVie on Monday said it would invest $380 million to build two new active pharmaceutical ingredient manufacturing facilities at its Illinois campus, expanding its domestic production capacity for its neuroscience and obesity medicines.
The High Rates of Mental Health Struggles
New research from Special Olympics Health, authored by SOI Chief Health Officer, Dr. Dimitri Christakis was published in JAMA Network Open titled: Anxiety, Depression, and Care Barriers in Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
People with intellectual and development disabilities have higher rates of anxiety, depression
And other health news from the Morning Rounds newsletter
Could this be the most impactful year ever in Seattle sports?
Seattle has an incredibly rich history across all sports over the last century-plus.
iPhone 18 Pro Reportedly Enters Trial Production Stage
Apple's upcoming iPhone 18 Pro has entered production testing ahead of a launch later this year, a Chinese leaker reported today. In a Weibo post, the leaker account known as "Fixed Focus Digital" said the Pro models had already entered "mass-production testing," likely referring to late-stage manufacturing validation for the devices ahead of a September launch.
Rural Health Transformation Program targets structural barriers across Missouri
Missouri will receive more than $216 million under a sweeping federal rural health initiative to modernize care in rural communities.
Merck Evolves Human Health Operating Structure to Support Portfolio Execution
Merck Evolves Human Health Operating Structure to Support Portfolio Execution
Merck Evolves Human Health Operating Structure to Support Portfolio Execution
RAHWAY, N.J., February 23, 2026--Merck Evolves Human Health Operating Structure to Support Portfolio Execution
House Science Committee takes on data center permitting
The panel will discuss barriers that may slow the development of infrastructure for artificial intelligence.
Budget, housing, business development: Concord City Council sets its priorities
Responsible monetary decisions. Clear and widely disseminated communication with the public, especially on the city’s finances and taxes. Helping people keep their homes and find new ones. Regulatory and cultural changes to make it easier for businesses and development, and investments in the roads, sewers and other infrastructure to support them. These pursuits are what […]
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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