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As of early October 2025, the Stratus COVID-19 variant (XFG and XFG.3) has become dominant in the US, causing persistent respiratory symptoms but no increased severity. Meanwhile, Japan faces an unusually early and rapid influenza epidemic, with hospitals filling and schools closing. Experts urge vaccination and hygiene to mitigate these overlapping respiratory threats.
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Recent UK regulations restrict free refills of sugary drinks in hospitality venues and ban multi-buy deals on unhealthy foods to combat rising obesity. These measures, effective from October 2025, aim to promote healthier choices and reduce health risks like diabetes and heart disease, amid ongoing industry adjustments.
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At least 19 children in Madhya Pradesh died after consuming a contaminated cough syrup, Coldrif, produced by Sresan Pharmaceuticals. Tests confirmed the presence of toxic diethylene glycol at levels far exceeding safety limits. Authorities have banned the product and launched investigations into manufacturing and supply chains. The incident revives concerns over India's pharmaceutical regulation and safety standards.
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Senegal reports 119 cases of Rift Valley Fever, mainly in northern livestock regions, raising concerns about spread. Meanwhile, Congo's Ebola outbreak shows signs of containment after 10 days without new cases, but authorities remain cautious. Both outbreaks highlight ongoing health threats in Africa.
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Since the ceasefire last week, aid into Gaza has increased to about 750 metric tons daily, but remains far below the needs of 2 million people. Israeli restrictions, border closures, and delays in aid delivery continue to hamper efforts to address the humanitarian crisis, with food and medical supplies still critically short.
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Multiple infectious diseases are spreading globally, with recent outbreaks of mpox in Europe and the US, severe influenza in Hong Kong and Australia, and early flu surges in Japan. Authorities emphasize vaccination and hygiene to mitigate impacts amid evolving virus strains and rising case numbers.
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China advances its climate goals with a focus on resilience and renewable energy, while the US and Europe face criticism for insufficient action. Meanwhile, global efforts to address air pollution and hunger remain underfunded, highlighting disparities in climate and development priorities amid rising inequalities.
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A female polio vaccination team was shot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, amid a nationwide campaign to immunize children. The attack, suspected to be by militants, follows ongoing violence targeting health workers. Pakistan continues to struggle with polio transmission, with 29 cases reported this year.
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The US has suspended most funding for South Africa's HIV programs, impacting thousands of health workers and clinics. Despite a new bridge plan, tensions remain high amid strained diplomatic relations and ongoing political disputes. The move threatens progress in HIV prevention and treatment in the region.
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As of late October 2025, Hong Kong reports its first locally acquired chikungunya case, prompting intensified mosquito control in Diamond Hill. Meanwhile, the US and UK detect local transmission of mpox clade Ib, primarily outside traditional risk groups. Authorities emphasize vaccination, mosquito control, and public awareness to curb spread amid seasonal mosquito inactivity.
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Gaza faces severe food shortages amid limited aid access, with only half of the targeted supplies entering since a ceasefire. Meanwhile, Somalia, Sudan, and Haiti are experiencing escalating humanitarian crises driven by aid cuts, conflict, and climate shocks, threatening millions with famine and displacement.
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Recent articles highlight two walking methods—backward walking and interval walking—that offer health benefits. Backward walking improves flexibility and muscle strength, while interval walking enhances cardiovascular health and stamina. Both are accessible, scientifically supported, and suitable for various age groups, especially older adults.
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England is set to approve cabotegravir, a two-month injectable HIV prevention shot, expanding options for those unable to take daily pills. Zimbabwe will roll out lenacapavir, a twice-yearly prophylactic, amid debates over cost and safety. Both developments mark significant advances in HIV prevention efforts.
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At the CPHIA 2025 conference in Durban, Africa CDC's Director-General declared the continent unprepared for future pandemics. Recent outbreaks of mpox and Ebola in Congo highlight ongoing vulnerabilities, including weak health infrastructure, reliance on imports, and fragmented response systems. Progress in local manufacturing is noted, but significant challenges remain.
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Delhi has conducted a cloud seeding trial to mitigate pollution, releasing chemicals into clouds to induce rain. Despite this, air quality remains in the 'very poor' category, with experts criticizing the method's effectiveness and calling for long-term emission reductions. Authorities expect brief rainfall, but pollution persists.
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The FDA has approved Lynkuet, a hormone-free pill from Bayer, to treat hot flashes and night sweats in menopausal women. It blocks two brain receptors affecting temperature regulation, potentially improving sleep and mood. The drug is expected to be available in November, offering an alternative to hormonal therapies with fewer risks.
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Recent reports highlight the rise of intense 996 work schedules in tech, originating in China and spreading to the US, with some companies normalizing 70-80 hour weeks. South Korea maintains a 52-hour limit, but debates about its impact on innovation and productivity continue, amid concerns over worker health and industry competitiveness.
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Despite a US-brokered ceasefire, Gaza's humanitarian situation remains dire. Food supplies are insufficient, and thousands of patients await evacuation amid ongoing restrictions and aid blockades. The UN warns of severe malnutrition and medical shortages, with political tensions complicating aid efforts.
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Multiple lawsuits and investigations reveal health risks linked to Drax's biomass operations and indoor wood burning. Workers and residents report serious health issues, while authorities face enforcement challenges. New studies highlight the ongoing public health and environmental costs of biomass and domestic wood use.
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WomenX Biotech, based in Hong Kong, developed a menstrual blood HPV test called PadX, claiming 99.2% accuracy. The government dismissed the product citing insufficient evidence, prompting the company to plan further discussions. The story highlights tensions between innovation and regulation in health tech.
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Recent outbreaks of bird flu in the UK and Germany have led to mass culling of poultry and wild birds. The disease is spreading rapidly, mainly via wild migratory birds, raising concerns about impacts on ecosystems and potential risks to mammals and humans. Authorities have extended biosecurity measures across affected regions.
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Since late October 2025, Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seized El-Fasher after an 18-month siege, triggering mass displacement and atrocities. Over 80,000 fled to overcrowded camps like Tawila, facing dire shortages of food, water, and medical aid. Reports detail killings, sexual violence, and hospital attacks. The humanitarian crisis worsens amid ongoing conflict and limited safe passage for civilians.
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On Sunday, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seized El Fasher after an 18-month siege, leading to the massacre of over 460 patients and companions at the Saudi Maternity Hospital. The WHO condemned the killings and abductions of health workers amid escalating ethnic violence and humanitarian crisis in Darfur, Sudan, as tens of thousands flee the region.
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Recent protests in Morocco and Madagascar highlight rising inequality, public service cuts, and social unrest. The upcoming World Summit for Social Development aims to address these issues by focusing on equitable access to health, education, and social services. Wealth concentration and urban health disparities remain key challenges.
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As of mid-November 2025, Sudan faces a severe humanitarian crisis amid ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Famine has been confirmed in the cities of el-Fasher and Kadugli, with over 21 million people experiencing acute food insecurity and nearly 375,000 in famine conditions. Fighting in Darfur and Kordofan has displaced tens of thousands, with reports of mass civilian deaths and blocked humanitarian aid.
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On November 13, 2025, Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman suffered a a ventricular fibrillation flare-up during a morning walk in Braddock, causing him to fall and sustain minor facial injuries requiring 20 stitches. He was hospitalized in Pittsburgh for observation and medication adjustment. Fetterman, 56, has a history of stroke and heart conditions and has been open about his mental health struggles.
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On December 1-2, 2025, WHO issued its first guidelines recommending long-term use of GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro for obesity treatment, recognizing obesity as a chronic disease. The US government finalized deals lowering prices for these drugs under Medicare and Medicaid, expanding coverage to more patients. Despite benefits, studies show weight and health gains reverse if treatment stops, highlighting need for ongoing care.
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Fighting in Sudan's Darfur region has intensified, with RSF capturing el-Fasher and reports of mass killings, widespread violence, and a collapsing humanitarian effort. Over 16,200 people have fled to camps, with malnutrition and violence reaching alarming levels. Aid access remains critically limited as conflict persists.
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Severe air pollution persists in New Delhi, with AQI reaching 344, prompting protests and government measures. Despite restrictions, pollution remains deadly, especially for vulnerable populations. Residents report health issues and protest for urgent action amid ongoing efforts to reduce emissions.
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Recent measles outbreaks in the US and Canada, linked to ongoing transmission since early 2025, have caused both countries to lose their WHO elimination status. The outbreaks are driven by low vaccination rates and community resistance, with authorities warning that the virus may continue spreading into 2026.
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Harare reports 501 cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease, while cholera cases surpass 300,000 across Africa. Ethiopia and Rwanda investigate Marburg virus, with ongoing support from WHO and Africa CDC. No deaths reported yet, but health authorities remain vigilant.
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As of late November 2025, the US, UK, Canada, and Japan face an early, severe flu season driven by the H3N2 subclade K variant, which has mutated beyond current vaccine strains. Hospital admissions and flu cases, especially among children and vulnerable groups, are rising. Concurrently, norovirus infections are doubling nationwide, with health officials urging hygiene and vaccination to mitigate risks.
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The Sudanese war, ongoing since April 2023, has intensified with the RSF capturing El-Fasher, displacing thousands and prompting US calls to halt external weapons supplies. The US accuses the UAE of arming the RSF, while other countries deny involvement. The conflict has caused significant humanitarian suffering.
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Fighting in Sudan has led to the fall of al-Fashir, causing a humanitarian crisis with nearly 100,000 fleeing. Civilians face violence, starvation, and displacement, with aid efforts hampered by funding shortages and insecurity. The conflict has shifted to Kordofan, raising fears of further displacement.
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Recent UN reports highlight persistent and worsening violence against women worldwide, with femicide and digital abuse increasing. Despite awareness efforts, funding remains critically underallocated, and violence remains deeply rooted in social and digital spheres, affecting millions across regions.
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CAIR, a major Muslim civil rights group, filed a lawsuit against Texas Governor Abbott after he labeled it a 'terrorist organization' and a 'criminal group.' The lawsuit argues the move violates the US Constitution and Texas law, with CAIR asserting the designation is baseless and inflammatory.
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Israeli forces intensified strikes in Gaza, violating the ceasefire with ongoing shelling and ground operations. Palestinian casualties and destruction continue, while Israel reports ongoing violations and military activity. Hezbollah mourns an assassinated commander in Lebanon, raising fears of broader conflict. The situation remains volatile as fighting persists.
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Multiple online threats target Israeli academics and defense personnel, with websites offering rewards for violence. Israel's security agencies suspect Iran's involvement. The threats follow recent escalation in anti-Israel rhetoric and violence, prompting urgent security responses and warnings to academics.
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The Democratic Republic of the Congo has declared the end of its 16th Ebola outbreak, which affected Bulape with 64 cases and 45 deaths. Rapid response efforts included vaccinations, medical supplies, and innovative treatment modules. No new cases have been reported since late September, marking a significant public health achievement.
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Measles infections increased by nearly 800,000 in 2024, reaching 11 million, with outbreaks tripling since 2021. Despite progress, vaccination gaps and pandemic disruptions have fueled the resurgence, threatening global elimination efforts. WHO urges renewed immunization efforts and political commitment to curb the disease.
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Flooding and landslides across Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand have killed more than 1,160 people, displaced hundreds of thousands, and caused widespread infrastructure damage. Heavy monsoon rains, intensified by rare tropical cyclones, are linked to climate change. Aid efforts are ongoing amid inaccessible areas and rising food prices. Today's date: Fri, 05 Dec 2025.
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In Mozambique, insurgent attacks have displaced over 1.3 million people, spreading into new provinces and causing renewed violence in Cabo Delgado. Meanwhile, Sudan's conflict continues with civilians trapped in siege conditions, facing attacks on healthcare and rising malnutrition. Humanitarian needs are rising sharply in both regions.
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Recent data shows US adults' weekly alcohol consumption remains steady since 1975, with slight recent declines. Experts suggest economic factors, not long-term behavioral shifts, primarily drive current trends. Meanwhile, Thailand relaxes alcohol sales hours, testing a new policy after decades of restrictions. Pregnant women increasingly choose alcohol-free options, but lack clear guidance.