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Connecticut Department of Public Health warns against eating fish caught in West River
HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — The Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH) is warning people not to eat fish caught in the West River in West Haven and New Haven. The precautionary advisory is …
Revisiting the past to imagine the future of public health | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
What would public health look like if it had to be rebuilt from scratch? Scientist historian Alfredo Morabia recently explored the question.
Reaccreditation process on track for public health programs
New associate dean Ela Austin said Virginia Tech received a ‘very, very strong’ preliminary report in seeking a seven-year renewal of accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health.
Talk to Your Doctor About Your Distrust of Public Health
The Trump administration wants Americans to have more conversations with their physicians. But it also can’t seem to stop disparaging the medical establishment.
Kaleb Rasmussen Discusses Health Law Career on SLU Podcast
Spencer Fane attorney Kaleb Rasmussen was the featured guest on the February 17 episode of Public Health: Unscripted, a Saint Louis University (SLU)
Gambling and sports betting: Are we calling a public health risk ‘entertainment’? (Letters)
“Now consider modern gambling. It is available 24 hours a day, in every pocket. It is aggressively promoted across broadcasts and social media. It is designed for seamless engagement, with in…
Six federal scientists run out by Trump talk about the work left undone
Federal data shows the NIH lost about 4,400 people — more than 20% of its workforce. Scientists say the departures harm the U.S.’ ability to respond to disease outbreaks, develop treatments for chronic illnesses, and confront the nation’s most pressing public health problems.
Stand Up for Science will hold second rally against Trump administration
Public health chaos and research funding cuts are inspiring nationwide pro-science protests against the Trump administration
Community science inspires curiosity, inclusion, and discovery
The Yale School of Public Health collaborated with Celentano Biotech, Health and Medical Magnet School, and New Haven Public Schools, to create The Tree of
Researchers launch new climate health projects with Wellcome support | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Harvard Chan School researchers will begin new U.S. and India-based investigations into the health impacts of air pollution, heat, and climate change mitigation strategies, made possible by charitable foundation Wellcome.
Pressure points: Balancing clinical and financial priorities in health care | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
As financial pressures intensify across health care, leaders face difficult choices that test their ability to protect clinical excellence while sustaining their organizations. Join leading experts for a candid conversation about navigating the tensions between clinical and financial priorities—and the skills, strategies, and innovations needed to lead effectively through these competing demands.
A third unvaccinated child tied to Broomfield High gets measles, prompting public health official to declare an outbreak
The new case is the state's fourth this year, giving Colorado a bad start when it comes to measles for 2026.
Policy Brief: Outdoor Recreation and Public Health
States are increasingly exploring the intersection of health policy and outdoor recreation to better understand how these policy areas could be leveraged for the positive benefit of their constituents. While formal partnerships are still relatively novel, Governors have a variety of opportunities to engage with outdoor recreation and health agencies to create long-term benefits. This […]
Gaslight, Gatekeep, Girlboss: Pay and Leadership Gaps for Women in Public Health
Women in government public health face a persistent leadership and salary gap. Here's what the data shows — and what the field must do to close it.
For California Democrats, single-payer health care is back. Voters have heard it before
Candidates for governor are promising universal public health care, which might sound familiar to California voters who've heard it before.
Rally to Take Back Science happening Saturday in Missoula
Happening this Saturday in Missoula — a rally aimed at defending science, public health, and democracy.Stand Up for Science is hosting what they’re calling the
Yaël Ossowski: The (short) history of kratom policy in the United States
When authorities moved to schedule kratom, they triggered a public health scare, not a safety fix.
The global fallout of RFK Jr's vaccine policies
In his role as Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. is changing how the United States approaches vaccines. But those changes aren’t limited to the United States. NPR global health correspondent Gabrielle Emanuel joins Short Wave to talk about two examples of how the global public health landscape may be shifting. First, the United States’ ultimatum to an international vaccine group. Second, the uncertain fate of a vaccine trial. Some researchers are calling the trial a “unique” opportunity, and others are calling it “unethical.” Read more of global health correspondent Gabrielle Emanuel’s work here.Interested in more global health? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.
African Public Health Emergency Management Fellowship Cohort III Announcement
CONTEXTCombating the several public health threats across the African continent requires adequately trained and equipped workforce. The Africa Health Security and Sovereignty (AHSS) Agenda has called for self-sustaining health security program that includes workforce development. The call is in alignment with the vision of the African Union (AU) and its desire to build capacity in […]
Wake County to host measles edition of Ask the Doc Town Hall
Wake County Public Health will hold a special measles-focused Ask the Doc Town Hall on March 10 at 6 p.m., offering residents a chance to learn about symptoms, risks, prevention, and vaccination from local medical experts via Zoom or Facebook Live.
When ICE Sweeps a Community, Public Health Pays a Price
The Trump administration announced on Feb. 12, 2026, that it is ending Operation Metro Surge, its deployment of more than 3,000 federal immigration enforcement agents in Minneapolis, St. Paul and the surrounding metro area. Federal officials say some agents will remain in the area and have vowed ...
Check your pantry. Public health alert issued for beef jerky snacks.
In a notice shared online March 1, the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service said the three products may contain an allergen.
Assessing the Impacts of Foreign Pollution on U.S. Public Health and Manufacturing
Foreign pollution carried by global winds harms U.S. air quality, public health, and manufacturing. This brief examines impacts and outlines policy solutions to address pollution at its source.
Brewing Better Health Episode 3: What Respect Makes Possible with Karla Wagner
Karla Wagner, Ph.D., joins Dean Muge Akpinar-Elci, M.D., MPH, to discuss harm reduction, trust and respect in public health.
Data Drives Public Health From Clinic to Community
Public health agencies need data to keep people healthy but getting that information depends on the cooperation of many people and organizations across health care and government.
There were 13 full-service public health clinics in L.A. County. Now there are 6
On Feb. 27, the L.A. County Department of Public Health eliminated services at six of its 13 free clinics, citing funding cuts at the federal, state and local levels.
Detroit Mayor Sheffield appoints Ali Abazeed as city's new chief public health officer
Mayor Lurie to S.F. public health department: Cut $40 million more
Mayor Daniel Lurie last week asked the S.F. public health department to cut an additional $40 million from its budget over the next two years.
Second unvaccinated Broomfield High School student contracts measles, Colorado health officials say
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and Adams County Health Department confirmed a new case of measles on Monday and are warning Broomfield and Westminster residents about possible exposure.
Mayor Sheffield taps Dearborn exec as Detroit's chief health officer
Mayor Mary Sheffield announced that Dearborn's former chief public health officer will lead Detroit's health department.
How bipartisan health policy is made | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
A Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forum.
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield appoints public health officer
NYC Health + Hospitals/Gouverneur Rings In Lunar New Year with Celebration for Patients and Residents - NYC Health + Hospitals
NYC Health + Hospitals/Gouverneur Skilled Nursing Facility partnered with NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Gouverneur, part of the public health
Sheffield names Dearborn official to become city's new Chief Public Health Officer
Ali Abazeed replaces Denise Fair Razo. After working with the U.S Department of Health and Human Services, he helped establish Dearborn's health department.
The Cost of Measles and Public Health Implications
Understand the cost of measles, from a financial, health, and societal standpoint. Also, learn the best preventative measures while planning for impact.
America’s Protein Obsession, Explained | Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Most Americans get plenty of protein—but under-consume other important nutrients.
Milken Institute School of Public Health, Social Mission Alliance Announce 2026 Awards for Excellence in Social Mission in Health Professions Education | Milken Institute School of Public Health | The George Washington University
The Social Mission Alliance announced the sixth cohort of Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation Awards for Excellence in Social Mission in Health Professions Education.
Virginia’s new public health leaders take the helm as state agencies weather uncharted waters
Two men with deep experience in health care policy and practice have recently been tapped to oversee Virginia’s public health agencies, as health care remains a top concern for residents and an ongoing challenge for state and federal lawmakers.
Global webinar on core public health capacities to conduct ship inspections and issue ship sanitation certificates
Ships cross borders every day, connecting countries and serving as a backbone of the global economy. However, outbreaks onboard can disrupt maritime traffic, leading to significant economic and operational negative consequences. Without strong public health capacities to detect, prevent, and respond to public health risks on board ships, maritime travel can also become a pathway for the spread of infectious diseases. To support countries in strengthening these capacities, the World Health Organization (WHO) convened a two-day webinar on 11–12 February, bringing together more than 700 ship inspectors, port health officers, and public health authorities, primarily from the African, Eastern Mediterranean, and European Regions. The webinar came at a pivotal time. With the amended International Health Regulations entering into force on 19 September 2025, the need to focus on public health preparedness has never been greater. Strengthening public health capacities at borders, including onboard conveyances, is a cornerstone of global health security and central to the amended IHR.“The high level of attendance and active participation throughout the two days of the webinar highlighted the growing demand for technical guidance and capacity-building support in ship inspection and issuance of ship sanitation certificates”, said Dr Ninglan Wang, Head of the Borders, Mass Gatherings and Health Protection Measures (BMM) Unit at the Health Emergency Preparedness Department at WHO headquarters. “The dynamic interactions among experts and countries underscored the value of continued cross-border collaboration in the maritime sector and knowledge exchange in this area”. Conducting regular public health inspections on board ships for the issuance of ship sanitation certificates (SSCs) in accordance with the IHR requirements is crucial for ensuring that ships meet specific health standards, thereby minimizing the risk of the international spread of diseases via maritime traffic. These certificates, mandated by the IHR, require ports to have trained personnel who can identify and control public health risks on board vessels and apply recommended control measures. This standardized global procedure not only ensures compliance with the IHR but also promotes consistency in health practices across ports worldwide. SSCs are the globally-recognized tool used to prevent and control known public health risks on ships, providing a common way to register and communicate public health events and measures taken on board between all stakeholders involved in this process, including public health authorities in ports and ship operators. Only SSCs issued by ports authorized by national authorities to issue such certificates are considered valid. As per the IHR, all States Parties are required to send to WHO their list of authorized ports (available here) and to keep it updated. However, many Member States continue to face practical challenges, such as limited resources, high staff turnover, and competing priorities. These realities underscore the value of platforms such as this webinar, which foster collective learning, peer-to-peer exchange, and practical solutions to help countries build and sustain the capacities required under the IHR.Over the two days, participants engaged in presentations and discussions covering a wide range of technical and operational topics, such as the overarching international legal framework governing ship sanitation; considerations for pre-inspection planning; risk assessment factors by type of vessel; the completion and issuance of SSCs and evidence report forms; or practical insights on the inspection of various technical areas, such as food safety, medical facilities, water systems, or vector control, among others. In addition, public health authorities from the Netherlands, Morocco, and Tanzania shared case studies to showcase their practical application of these IHR requirements in their respective countries. Given its success, WHO plans to replicate similar sessions in the future to reach additional time zones and regions and cover other pressing border health-related topics, ensuring that Member States can continue benefiting from these opportunities to share knowledge and expertise.
Asbestos fees drive inspections strengthening public health protections
The fee-supported asbestos program exceeded its inspection goals, ensuring safer demolition and renovation practices statewide.
Cook County public health grant threatened by federal funding cancellation
Grant funding for Cook County Public Health and Human Services (PHHS) is at risk after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) canceled millions of dollars in public health investments for Minnesota. The Public Health Infrastructure Grant awarded Cook County more than $30,000. Statewide, about $38 million in public health funding was canceled, effective...
Alabama House committee approves bill to allow public health agency to inspect jails and prisons
Many groups say the kitchens and food service areas need to be inspected to help prevent illnesses from spreading.
Older Americans are lonely. It's a public health crisis.
"Loneliness in the second half of life needs to be a focus of public health policy."
Without Weighing Costs to Public Health, EPA Rolls Back Air Pollution Standards for Coal Plants
The federal Mercury and Air Toxics Standards for coal and oil-fired power plants were strengthened during the Biden administration.
DC Public Health to begin daily testing of Potomac, Anacostia rivers for E. coli
Beginning on Monday, the D.C. Department of Health will be conducting daily tests for E. coli in the Potomac and Anacostia rivers.
Former EPA Staff Detail Expanding Pollution Risks Under Trump
The Trump administration’s relentless rollback of public health and environmental protections has allowed widespread toxic exposures to flourish, warn experts who helped implement safeguards now under assault.
Colorado health officials warn of measles exposure at locations in several Denver-area cities
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is warning the public after a resident who visited locations in Broomfield, Lafayette, Louisville and Westminster was confirmed to have measles.
The US has surpassed 1,100 measles cases in two months. Expect more deaths next
The US has recorded more than 1,100 measles cases so far this year, according to data published Friday by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It’s a troubling milestone that has many in public health bracing for the worst.
1,200 Emory interprofessional students team up to confront Atlanta’s health challenges | Emory University
First-year students from Emory’s schools of medicine, nursing and public health formed 115 cross-disciplinary teams that worked together to address health challenges facing Atlanta communities during IPE-ACTS Day 2026.
Tuberculosis cases have been rising as public health agencies struggle to keep up
Tuberculosis is a costly disease, and cases have been rising back to pre-pandemic rates. Public health agencies are struggling to keep up.
White Earth Nation first Minnesota tribe to receive national accreditation for health care
As rural health care across the state faces challenges to funding and services, the Public Health Accreditation Board has awarded White Earth Nation's health care system national accreditation.
Colorado single-payer study lacks transparency
Coloradans have a right to expect transparency, accountability and fiscal responsibility from public institutions. Unfortunately, the ongoing single-payer health care study commissioned last year under SB25-45 is raising more questions than answers. Despite repeated warnings from voters and prior analyses, the Colorado School of Public Health is moving forward with a new single-payer study that […]
Santiago de Chile Declaration launched to advance clean air and environmental justice in Latin America
The Santiago de Chile Declaration calls for urgent, coordinated action to reduce air pollution and advance environmental justice across Latin America and the Caribbean. Launched with support from World Health Organization and Pan American Health Organization, the Declaration frames clean air as a human right and sets out concrete regional and national priorities to protect public health—especially for vulnerable communities.
El Paso health officials confirm four measles cases, launch contact tracing
Measles has been confirmed in El Paso, prompting public health officials to begin contact tracing and urge residents to check their vaccination status.The City
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.
City of Pasadena Announces Health Officer
PASADENA, Calif. – The Director of Public Health Manuel Carmona has selected Dr. Parveen Kaur to be the next Health Officer at the Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD). Dr. Kaur has served as Acting Health Officer since 2023 and will continue to provide medical direction to clinical programs, issue public health policy and guidance, and […]
How the walkback of a greenhouse gas finding hurts public health.
Experts called the repeal of a 2009 finding that greenhouse gases pose a public health risk a handout to the auto and fossil-fuel industries.
Expert Q&A: Why climate health research matters more than ever under new federal stance
UC Berkeley’s Dr. David J. X. González on what the recent reversal of the “Endangerment Finding” means for public health.
2/26/2026 – POTENTIAL PUBLIC HEALTH RISKS FROM WHALE CARCASS OFF HAWAIʻI ISLAND’S KONA COAST
JOSH GREEN, M.D. GOVERNOR RYAN KANAKAʻOLE ACTING CHAIRPERSON POTENTIAL PUBLIC HEALTH RISKS FROM WHALE CARCASS OFF HAWAIʻI ISLAND’S KONA COAST KAILUA-KONA, Hawaiʻi – The Department of Land and Natural Resources […]
Mesa County's new public health tool is designed to better track disease outbreak data
The online system allows child care centers to report information, gathering data faster
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
Surgeon general nominee Means questioned about vaccines, birth control and financial conflicts
During a confirmation hearing, senators asked Dr. Casey Means about her current positions and her past statements on a range of public health issues.
Invisibility Is No Longer Harmless: Why Public Health Must Make Its Value Seen
Public health once prized invisibility, but amid workforce shortages and unstable funding, unseen impact becomes vulnerability. Value must be visible to be sustained.
States sue Trump administration over changes to childhood vaccine recommendations
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — More than a dozen states sued the Trump administration Tuesday over its rollback of vaccine recommendations for children, calling the move an illegal threat to public health.
Why the endangerment finding mattered so much for health and the climate | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Harvard Chan School's Mary Rice discusses the potential health impacts of the Trump administration's decision to scrap the endangerment finding.
Lubbock Public Health confirms measles case
Public health officials are working closely with the affected healthcare facility and the infected individual to identify those who may have been exposed.
Four Ways Public Health Agencies Are Strengthening Grants Management
Learn how public health agencies are improving their financial management strategies and systems.
How Public Health Officials Use Data to Protect a Community
Over the course of her career, Dr. Janet Berreman has relied on data to identify, understand, and guide her response to community health needs. One source of that data comes from syndromic surveillance, an automated data feed that can act as an early warning system for emerging health threats.
Burke County reports first measles case, exposure sites span 3 counties
Burke County has experienced its first measles case, Burke County Public Health confirmed in a Feb. 23 press release.
Inside the state lab guiding North Carolina’s measles response
With at least 23 measles cases reported in North Carolina since December, critical public health decisions begin inside the State Laboratory of Public Health in Raleigh. Scientists there confirm high-risk cases, shaping how officials notify the public and limit further spread.
CDC Leadership Disarray Deepens as Second-in-Command Departs
Leadership turmoil at the top US public health agency intensified Monday, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s second-in-command stepped down less than a week after its third new director in the past year took the helm.
Approved but unfunded study on universal health care in Colorado finds financial support
With the state’s budget gaps, Colorado School of Public Health was $750,000 short, but can now begin its research.
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
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 tried to troll Greenland's free public health care system with U.S. Navy hospital ships still in dock. 'It’s a no thank you from here'
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Public Health Data Consortium
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Trump climate health rollback likely to hit poor, minority areas hardest, experts say
The Trump administration’s revocation of a scientific finding that climate change is a danger to public health is likely to affect communities of color the most.
Trump climate health rollback likely to hit poor, minority areas hardest, experts say
The Trump administration’s revocation of a scientific finding that climate change is a danger to public health is likely to affect communities of color the most.
Trump climate health rollback likely to hit poor, minority areas hardest, experts say
The Trump administration’s revocation of a scientific finding that climate change is a danger to public health is likely to affect communities of color the most.
Trump climate health rollback likely to hit poor, minority areas hardest, experts say
The Trump administration’s revocation of a scientific finding that climate change is a danger to public health is likely to affect communities of color the most.
Fauci discusses HIV cure, renewed trust in medical research
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United States and Madagascar to Implement $175 Million Five-Year Health MOU - U.S. Embassy in Madagascar
United States and Madagascar to Implement $175 Million Five-Year Health MOU U.S. and Malagasy health officials are convening in Antananarivo for a two-day joint review process, marking the first major step in implementing the strategic health cooperation framework established in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries in December 2025. The MoU outlines the structure and terms of U.S. support to Madagascar’s health sector from 2026 through 2030, with a total commitment of $134,305,000 from the U.S. Government and $41,216,252 from the Government of Madagascar working jointly to address malaria, maternal and child health, polio and global health security issues. This approach reflects the America First Global Health Strategy by prioritizing effective, results-driven cooperation that advances mutual health security and supports Madagascar’s progress toward self-reliance and independence from foreign assistance. The events bring together U.S. Government health experts and Madagascar’s Ministry of Public Health leadership to conduct a comprehensive review of seven major health programs currently supported by United States funding, discussing current activities, and developing recommendations for programs to align with the signed Memorandum of Understanding, which advances both the America First Global Health Strategy and the Government of Madagascar’s goals. “This memorandum sets the course for U.S. strategic cooperation and support to Madagascar’s health sector over the next five years,” said Chargé d’Affaires Stephanie Arnold at the workshop’s opening. This review will help determine how to maximize the effectiveness and impact of these programs, ensuring resources provided by U.S. taxpayer dollars are used wisely,” she added. “By working together to address global health challenges, we demonstrate America’s leadership and commitment to a safer, healthier world, making both the United States and Madagascar healthier and stronger.” Under President Trump’s leadership, the United States is implementing a Global Health Strategy for foreign assistance that emphasizes increased host country ownership, resilient health systems and human resource capacity to reduce dependency, maintaining frontline support to reduce infectious disease threats, and strong performance monitoring systems for accountability and service delivery. “Diseases do not respect borders, and when we support Madagascar’s capacity to detect, prevent, and respond to infectious disease threats, we are contributing to global health security that benefits communities both here and in the United States,” Arnold emphasized, noting that “The MoU represents a commitment to transparency, accountability, and results.” The United States recognizes the commitment of Malagasy leadership in prioritizing investment of time and significant resources on the healthcare of their own citizens. With recent changes in leadership, Madagascar has an opportunity to strengthen governance, improve performance, and move forward toward greater self-reliance, particularly in the healthcare sector. Through strategic focus and thoughtful collaboration under this MoU, U.S. health programs in Madagascar will deliver meaningful results that advance both countries’ interests while supporting Madagascar’s journey toward greater self-reliance and a healthy future.
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STAT wins fourth Polk Award for reporting on impact of Trump on health
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Philadelphia launches real-time air quality monitoring system: "This is public health in action"
Public health, green groups sue EPA over repeal of rule supporting climate protections
The Obama-era finding underpins nearly all climate regulations under the Clean Air Act.
Public health, green groups sue EPA over repeal of rule supporting climate protections
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