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Getting to Know the Small Business Administration's Disaster Assistance Programs
An introduction to a lesser-known but vital resource for post-disaster recovery
Can magnesium supplements improve sleep, energy and concentration?
Magnesium has been called the “super mineral of the moment”, hailed for its supposed benefits for the brain and body. But columnist Alice Klein finds that the evidence is lacking for many of these claims
‘The Black Affair’ showcases Black-owned businesses at ETHS
“The Black Affair,” a Black-owned vendor and business showcase, took place at Evanston Township High School Saturday. This is the first time “The Black Affair,” sponsored by the school’s Black History Month Committee, has welcomed outside community members, according to the event’s founder, ETHS Administrative Assistant Ebony Redmond. Last year, Redmond said the event was...
Iran crisis puts UK leader Keir Starmer in a new political bind
The U.K. prime minister is under pressure from all sides over his stance on U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran.
Imagery, Algorithms, and the Ballot: What Takaichi’s Victory Says About Youth Politics in the Digital Age
Sanae Takaichi’s electoral victory in February marks a historic turning point in Japanese politics. As Japan’s first female prime minister and the leader of a commanding parliamentary majority, she represents change in both symbolic and strategic terms. ,
Oil price spike underscores risks of Trump's Iran strategy
President Donald Trump’s decision to topple the Iranian regime is threatening to torch an oil market his administration has been at pains to keep cool since he returned to office.
Trump officials decline Sunday show invitations amid Iran strikes
No senior Trump administration officials or cabinet members appeared on the Sunday show television circuit a day after the US and Israel began a major military operation in Iran, killing Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Guinea, US Sign $143 Million MOU To Boost Health Over Five Years
Guinea has signed a $143 million memorandum of understanding with the US to boost health systems in the West African nation, Finance Minister Mariama Ciré Sylla said in a video posted on Facebook.
Labour is stubborn in defeat because it knows this: we face the belated end of the political 20th century
In Gorton and Denton, I heard again and again that people wanted seismic political change – Labour and the Tories are no longer part of that conversation, says Guardian columnist John Harris
Trump subpoena, administration probes taking shape, House Democrats say
If they take control of the chamber after the midterms, Democrats are planning to summon Trump to testify and launch an array of probes of the administration.
Trump Is Attacking Climate Science. Scientists Are Fighting Back.
It’s easy, looking at the past year, to see the damage the administration has done. But researchers are also stepping up, trying to fill the gaps.
‘It’s a slap in the face of the United States Congress’: Lawmakers fume as Trump again bombs without their blessing
Top Capitol Hill Democrats, and a small number of Republicans, watched in alarm Saturday as the administration launched a major US assault on Iran, decrying President Donald Trump’s call for the overthrow of another foreign government without their expressed approval.
Labour minister Josh Simons resigns after falsely linking journalists to ‘pro-Kremlin’ network
Makerfield MP has been under pressure over thinktank’s commissioning of PR firm to investigate reporters
Week in Politics: Does Trump have political support for his actions in Iran?
We look at what President Trump's decision to attack Iran means, what kind of support he has in Iran and what this moment means for his administration.
Schools, most businesses to stay shuttered Sunday amid Israel-US assault on Iran
Health system suspends all non-essential services, while courts cancel all but urgent proceedings; banks, supermarkets remain open as economy minister urges public to avoid panic buying
Burcum: Target Medicaid fraud, not innocent people’s health care
"Medicaid serves a highly vulnerable population with few alternatives for coverage," columnist Jill Burcum writes.
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.
Pursuing Sustainable Health Outcomes Under the Trump Administration’s America First Global Health Strategy in the Republic of Guatemala, the Republic of Guinea, and the Republic of El Salvador - United States Department of State
Today, the United States signed bilateral health cooperation Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the Republic of Guatemala, the Republic of Guinea, and the Republic of El Salvador, advancing the Trump Administration’s America First Global Health Strategy across two continents. These MOUs establish frameworks for sustainable, country-led health systems while strengthening disease detection and response capabilities […]
Health Ministry tells hospitals to move operations to protected and underground areas
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Former EPA Staff Detail Expanding Pollution Risks Under Trump
The Trump administration’s relentless rollback of public health and environmental protections has allowed widespread toxic exposures to flourish, warn experts who helped implement safeguards now under assault.
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
Trans actor slams men's hockey for embracing Trump, igniting sports politics debate
Washington Examiner columnist Salena Zito comments on transgender actor Harrison Browne criticizing the U.S. men’s hockey team for meeting with President Donald Trump and more on ‘America Reports.’
Director Alexandre Trudeau Addresses Berlin Artistic Freedom Debate
With his brother, Justin Trudeau, and father, Pierre Elliott Trudeau, both having served as Canadian prime ministers, the ‘Hair of the Bear’ filmmaker knows a thing or two about tackling political issues.
Partial government shutdown starts to hit TSA workers’ paychecks
Transportation Security Administration workers will receive only a portion of their next paycheck, which they are set to receive as soon as Friday, according to a union official. The reduced pay comes as the partial government shutdown ends its second week with no resolution in sight.
Saputo USA recalls Great Value cottage cheese due to possible health risk
Three types of Walmart Great Value brand cottage cheese products were voluntarily recalled by Saputo Cheese USA Inc. due to a possible health risk, the Food and Drug Administration announced Wednesday.
Moore demands Trump tariff reimbursements for Maryland consumers, businesses
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) is demanding reimbursements for his state’s consumers and businesses after the Supreme Court shot down a majority of the Trump administration’s tariffs last week. …
Bolstering Infectious Disease Outbreak Prevention and Response in Niger and the Dominican Republic Through the America First Global Health Strategy - United States Department of State
On February 26, the United States signed bilateral health cooperation Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the Dominican Republic and the Republic of Niger, reinforcing U.S. leadership in global health while advancing country ownership under the Trump Administration’s America First Global Health Strategy. In the Dominican Republic, the United States signed a five-year bilateral health cooperation […]
My doctor keeps focusing on my weight. What other health metrics matter more?
Our Real Talk with a Doc columnist explains how to push back if your doctor's obsessed with weight loss. And what other health metrics matter more instead.
Column | New dietary guidelines promise science over bias — but come up short
The Trump administration says it wants evidence driving nutrition conclusions, but bias keeps getting in the way.
Why Trump's Criticism of Maliki Strengthens Him in Iraq
Is publicly confronting the likely next prime minister of Iraq the right strategy for the United States? The nomination of Nouri al Maliki by the
Dirty Business, The Lady, Mandelson’s arrest – are they truth, ‘faction’ or just more drama?
The latest rush of docudramas seems to suggest that anyone in the public eye must expect a degree of intrusion. But where does that end, asks Guardian columnist Simon Jenkins
The nation’s cartoonists on the week in politics
Every week political cartoonists throughout the country and across the political spectrum apply their ink-stained skills to capture the foibles, memes, hypocrisies and other head-slapping events in the world of politics. The fruits of these labors are hundreds of cartoons that entertain and enrage readers of all political stripes. Here's an offering of the best of this week's crop, picked fresh off the Toonosphere. Edited by Matt Wuerker.
US Olympic hockey player distances himself from White House video trashing Canadians
While the Trump administration has shown no hesitation to bash Canada – especially after the US men’s Olympic hockey team won gold in overtime – one of the players took issue with a recent AI-generated TikTok posted by the White House that made it sound like he was trash-talking Canadians.
New God of War Sons of Sparta Feature Addresses Fan Criticism
God of War Sons of Sparta developer addresses some early adopter criticism with a simple feature that's now available to all players.
Alameda County looks for $10M to stave off health care layoffs and program closures
Alameda Health System workers and union leaders said their units are already stretched too thin and criticized administrators.
Justice Department Sues 5 States, Most Republican-Led, for Voter Data
The Trump administration sued Utah, Oklahoma and West Virginia, as well as Kentucky and West Virginia, to obtain unredacted voter registration databases in pursuit of baseless claims of voter fraud.
Science and the Art of Paying Attention
From the daily newsletter: a science columnist on how everyday life changes when you start noticing things with a fresh perspective.
Regime Change in Cuba Appeals to Trump but Carries Risks
The Trump administration is signaling a different approach, after demanding an end to Cuba’s communist leadership.
Ron DeSantis carves out a distinct GOP lane on AI: From the Politics Desk
Plus, the Trump administration launches its "war on fraud."
SGMC Health Announces Luke Parks as Administrative Director, Physician & Perioperative Business Services
SGMC Health announces the promotion of Luke Parks to Administrative Director, Physician & Perioperative Business Services
SGMC Health Announces Luke Parks as Administrative Director, Physician & Perioperative Business Services
SGMC Health announces the promotion of Luke Parks to Administrative Director, Physician & Perioperative Business Services
Trump Declared Victory in Minneapolis. But What Did He Accomplish?
The Trump administration came under fire for an operation that turned lethal and politically toxic. But the show of force may also have had a bigger purpose: to serve as a warning.
Tariffs. Loans. ICE. Immigrant business owners face plenty of hurdles under Trump administration
Businesses operated and owned by immigrants all over the Boston area face a slew of challenges that were shared at a recent roundtable with Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley.
Trump asks Supreme Court to remove immigration protections for thousands of Syrians
President Donald Trump’s administration urged the Supreme Court on Thursday to allow it to end temporary protections for thousands of Syrians who have been living in the United States since the government’s brutal crackdown on protesters fifteen years ago.
DHS official promises that federal immigration agents won't be at polling places during midterm elections
A Department of Homeland Security official on Wednesday told state election administrators that immigration agents will not be stationed at the polls during November's midterm elections, trying to swat down one of Democrats' greatest fears about possible election interference from the Trump administration.
Trump administration asks the Supreme Court to allow an end to legal protections for Syrian migrants
The Trump administration wants the Supreme Court to allow the government to end legal protections for migrants from Syria for now
Jersey government weighs up private health scheme idea
The chief minister says he believes it could be "part of the mix".
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.
States Sue to Block Trump’s ‘Anti-Science’ Vaccine Policy
Climate change helps spread vaccine-preventable diseases. But the Trump administration’s reduced vaccine schedule “throws science out the window,” and makes Americans more vulnerable to infections, state attorneys general charge in a new lawsuit.
Home Office denies ‘absurd’ criticism over rule change that could leave dual nationals stranded
MPs raise cases of honeymooners and other Britons caught out by new passport requirements as minister rejects calls for a grace period
US: Trump administration pauses Minnesota health funds
US Vice President JD Vance has announced a halt in Medicaid health payments to Minnesota, a day after President Donald Trump put him in charge of a "war on fraud."
DHS official promises that federal immigration agents won't be at polling places during the midterms
A DHS official is promising top state election administrators that immigration agents will not be at polling places during November’s midterm election
White House officials believe ‘the politics are a lot better’ if Israel strikes Iran first
As the administration mulls military action in Iran, officials argue it’d be best ifIsrael makes the first move.
DHS reinstates Coast Guard members discharged over COVID shot
Some significant changes to U.S. immunization practices have been made during the first year of the second Trump administration
Trump Administration Prioritizes Affordability by Announcing Major Crackdown on Health Care Fraud
Today HHS announced new steps to crack down on fraud in Medicare and Medicaid to protect patients and taxpayers and improve affordability.
Businesses Push for Tariff Refunds as Trump Aides Hint at Fight to Come
By the president’s own admission, it could be years before the matter is settled, even though the administration previously indicated it would pay.
Small Business Admin. IG Testifies on Fraud in Small Business Relief Programs
Small Business Administration Inspector General William Kirk and Pandemic Response Accountability Committee Executive Director Kenneth Dieffenbach testify on fraud in small business relief programs before the Senate Small Business Committee.
Fact-checking Trump's State of the Union claims on the economy, immigration and crime
In a combative State of the Union speech — the longest in modern history at about 108 minutes — President Donald Trump defended his administration's economic performance and hardline immigration agenda amid sagging poll numbers ahead of the midterm elections.
Fortifying Health Systems and Countering Infectious Disease Threats Through the America First Global Health Strategy in Burkina Faso - United States Department of State
Today, the United States and Burkina Faso signed a five-year bilateral health cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that reinforces regional health security in the Sahel while advancing Burkina Faso’s capacity to independently manage infectious disease threats before they reach our shores. This MOU reflects the Trump Administration’s commitment to protecting American health security while building […]
Rep. Omar: I had to remind him that his administration was responsible for killing two of my constituents
NI budget: 'little political appetite to seize the moment', NI Fiscal Council
NI's budget watchdog has raised doubts about whether Stormont ministers will be able to agree a budget.
Americans trust vaccines, school mandates, rejecting Trump agenda, Reuters/Ipsos poll finds
A bipartisan majority of Americans believe vaccines are safe and that children should receive them to attend school, according to a new Reuters/Ipsos poll, illustrating the challenges President Donald Trump's administration faces to win broad support for upending decades of health policy.
Dems plot health oversight blitz if they win midterms
Two top targets are the administration's drug pricing deals and its moves to limit vaccine recommendations.
Key takeaways from President Trump's State of the Union address
President Trump delivered his first State of the Union address of his second term Tuesday night. We break down what he said, what his political messaging was, and how it previews the administration's goals through the midterm elections. We also analyze how the Democrats responded.This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, congressional reporter Sam Gringlas, senior political editor & correspondent Domenico Montanaro, and senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson.This podcast was produced and edited by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Special thanks to Kelsey Snell, Natalie Winston and Neil Tevault.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
WATCH: ‘Can't let’ Iran have a nuclear weapon, Trump says
The U.S. has been building up its largest military presence of American warships and aircraft in decades in the Middle East, as the Trump administration plans to restart talks with Iran over its nuclear program.
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.
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.
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.
Trump administration considers forcing banks to verify customers’ citizenship
The Trump administration is weighing a new requirement for US banks to verify citizenship information of current and future customers as part of the president’s aggressive immigration crackdown, sources told CNN.
15 States Sue the Trump Administration Over Vaccine Schedule Revisions
Federal health officials have pared back the number of shots recommended for children. The states, led by Democrats, say the changes were not based on science.
Why Are U.S. Healthcare Prices So High?
By Patrick Aguilar In announcing its “Great Healthcare Plan” in January 2026, the Trump administration became the latest in a long history of efforts by the U.S. government to rein in the soaring cost of health care. As a physician and professor studying the intersection of business and health, I ...
Uber Health Launches Self-Booking Feature to Empower Riders and Streamline Operations
Industry-first capability reduces administrative burden for providers, health systems, and I/DD organizations while boosting rider independenceSAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Uber Health today announced the launch of its rider self-booking feature, a new platform capability that enables healthcare and disability service organizations to offer their riders the ability to book their own organization-funded trips directly in the Uber app. The launch marks the latest milestone in Ub
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 […]
MAGA Meets Europe: Trump’s Envoys Rip Up Diplomatic Playbook
At least Bill White, Donald Trump’s ambassador to Brussels, showed up when summoned by the foreign ministry over some undiplomatic interventions into Belgian politics.
Recent studies challenge Kennedy’s claims about vaccines, Tylenol and antidepressants
The Trump administration has pledged to conduct its own studies, but research continues to contradict its claims.
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.
Mandelson’s Arrest Adds to Scandal That Has Rattled Starmer and Labour Party
The arrest of the British former envoy to Washington, long a key figure in the Labour Party, deepened a scandal that has led to calls for Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s resignation.
Minister signals government won’t stop MPs voting to publish Andrew trade envoy documents
MPs to debate the release of documents relating to the appointment of ex-prince Andrew as UK trade envoy
Donald Trump to deliver State of the Union tonight. What to know.
The president is set to deliver his first State of the Union address of his second administration. Here's how to watch the speech.
France restricts US ambassador’s access to officials after summons no-show
US Ambassador sends embassy official in his place, his second time to skip a summons from the French Foreign Ministry.
Grief shapes community politics
Senior columnist Lisette Huerta argues grief matters politically because it reshapes people’s relationship to advocacy.
Pentagon Races to Spend $153 Billion in Added Funds for Military
The Trump administration for months ignored Congress’s demand for a plan on how the Defense Department would spend the money that Republicans pushed through in their sweeping domestic policy bill.
FedEx sues Trump administration for full tariff refunds after Supreme Court ruling on IEEPA
FedEx sues U.S. government for tariff refunds after Supreme Court ruled Trump's emergency trade duties on imports were unlawful.
Political Backlash After Pro-Palestine Comments at Berlin Awards Ceremony
A German cabinet minister walked out during one acceptance speech, and Berlin's conservative mayor said the ceremony was “misused for political destruction.”
THE WEEK OF FEB 23, 2026
- NSF director nominee announced - Confusion over NIST foreign researcher policies - Science Republicans reviewing AI laws
Can the ‘right’ food choices really treat a mental health condition?
A nourishing diet with nutrients that support brain health can support mental health treatment, but it’s not a stand-alone option, writes columnist Carrie Dennett.
The Politics of Wildlife Protection
At the latest Washington Convention meeting in Uzbekistan, countries, conservationists, NGOs and traders negotiated over the fate of the world’s endangered animals
Suspected gunman identified after being shot dead at Mar-a-Lago
Law enforcement confirm man, who was armed with a shotgun and gas canister at Trump’s Florida home, was 21-year-old Austin Tucker Martin
Opinion | The Human Cost of the Trump Administration’s War on Science
The ripple effects of cutting H.I.V. research funding.
Pharma lobbyists focus on a surprising new target: the FDA
Lobbyists told STAT they believe the odds of approval go up if a decision can be spun as a win for the Trump administration.
Democrats decry meager medical care for detainees in funding fight
Fernando Viera Reyes needed a biopsy for possible prostate cancer when the Trump administration sent him to an immigration detention center in California’s Mojave Desert.
Federal funding freeze stalls growth for Western Pennsylvania small businesses
Despite a push from the Trump administration to unleash American competitiveness, Congress has failed to reauthorize the nation’s largest innovation...
A new era for Dutch politics with Rob Jetten set to be sworn in as prime minister
The Netherlands is getting a new minority government led by Rob Jetten, the country’s youngest-ever prime minister
A new era for Dutch politics with Rob Jetten set to be sworn in as prime minister
The Netherlands is getting a new minority government led by Rob Jetten, the country’s youngest-ever prime minister.
A new era for Dutch politics with Rob Jetten set to be sworn in as prime minister
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 Administration Ending Humanitarian Aid to Seven African Countries
The State Department will let lifesaving projects expire because “there is no strong nexus between the humanitarian response and U.S. national interests,” according to an internal email.