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Asia Tightens Airport Screening as Nipah Virus Concerns Rise

  Airport health authorities wearing protective masks monitor passengers from international flights arriving at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok, Thailand, amid reports of a Nipah outbreak. Airports across Asia are stepping up health surveillance as several countries respond to renewed concerns over the Nipah virus following confirmed cases in India. The virus, known for its high fatality rate and potential for human‑to‑human transmission, has prompted authorities to reintroduce precautionary screening measures to limit cross‑border spread. Health officials in Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Nepal, and Taiwan have implemented temperature checks, health declarations, and targeted monitoring of passengers arriving from affected regions. While the number of confirmed cases remains limited, the severity of the virus has led governments to act swiftly. Nipah virus infections are rare but dangerous, with symptoms ranging from fever and headaches to severe respir...

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Canadian Excel Maestro Claims World Spreadsheet Championship Title

 

Michael Jarman, a financial modelling director from Toronto, has been crowned the new world champion of managing spreadsheets in Microsoft Excel. Jarman clinched the title at the Microsoft Excel World Championships held in Las Vegas on December 4, 2024, defeating Australia's three-time champion Andrew Ngai in a thrilling finale.

The competition, which is akin to an esports event, required participants to build and manage spreadsheets to perform tasks and solve problems based on a World of Warcraft theme. Jarman's victory came after an intense final round where he successfully tracked various game statistics, including experience points and health, under immense pressure.

For his remarkable skills, Jarman took home a $5,000 prize and the event's signature championship belt. "It was an amazing feeling," Jarman said. "It's definitely a really great memory for me, and will be for a long time."

Jarman's triumph not only highlights his exceptional Excel abilities but also showcases the growing popularity of spreadsheet competitions as a unique and entertaining sport.



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