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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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RCMP Investigates Allegations of Corruption in Alberta Health Contracts

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has initiated a formal investigation into allegations of corruption and political interference within Alberta Health Services (AHS). The probe follows a complaint received in February, which raised concerns about procurement practices and potential conflicts of interest in multimillion-dollar health contracts.

The allegations were brought to light by Athana Mentzelopoulos, the former CEO of AHS, who filed a wrongful dismissal lawsuit against the agency and the provincial government. Mentzelopoulos claims she was terminated after launching an internal investigation into inflated contract prices and questionable dealings with private surgical providers. She also alleged political pressure to approve contracts despite unresolved concerns.

The RCMP's investigation adds to ongoing reviews by Alberta's auditor general and a third-party inquiry led by former Manitoba judge Raymond E. Wyant. While the allegations remain unproven in court, the case has sparked widespread calls for transparency and accountability in the province's healthcare system.

Health Minister Adriana LaGrange and Premier Danielle Smith, both named in the lawsuit, have denied any wrongdoing. The government has pledged full cooperation with the RCMP's investigation.


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