Pandemic

Experts say slashed funding and growing misinformation are some of the greatest challenges facing public healthThe hantavirus outbreak, while unlikely to spark the next big pandemic, is shining a spotlight on the ways public health has deteriorated in the US: its ability to test for rare diseases, its expertise on outbreak prevention and response, its ability to battle misinformation and restore trust.“Assuming everything goes well in containing this outbreak, which I hope it does, the takeaway from that should not be ‘we’re fine,’” said Stephanie Psaki, former White House global health security coordinator. “We’re not ready for this type of threat.” Continue reading...

• The Philippines recorded its lowest post-pandemic GDP growth of 2.8% in the first quarter of 2026, signaling economic slowdown amid global uncertainties. • This figure marks a sharp deceleration, raising concerns over government policy effectiveness in sustaining recovery. • Analysts attribute the slump to external pressures like energy costs from regional conflicts and weaker domestic demand.

• The Philippines recorded a Q1 2026 GDP growth of 2.8%, the weakest since the pandemic and dragging the economy into a prolonged slowdown. • This marks one of the weakest runs in 16 years, signaling challenges in post-recovery momentum. • Factors include subdued domestic demand and external headwinds affecting Southeast Asia.