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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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Federal Immigration Department Announces Major Job Cuts


Two federal public service unions have revealed that the Immigration Department is set to cut over 3,300 jobs over the next three years. The Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) and the Canada Employment and Immigration Union issued a joint statement expressing concern over the lack of information regarding who will be affected by the cuts.

The unions emphasized that the department's staff are essential for processing citizenship and permanent residency applications, issuing passports, and conducting interviews. They urged the government to reduce outside contracting instead of downsizing staff.

The job cuts are part of the government's broader effort to refocus federal spending, which has been ongoing since 2023. The unions are calling for transparency and a reconsideration of the cuts, highlighting the potential impact on the department's ability to fulfill its duties.

Affected employees are expected to be notified in mid-February, with letters being sent out to those impacted. The unions continue to advocate for their members and push for alternative solutions to achieve budgetary goals.



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