This warning comes amid a significant rise in smartphone ownership among young individuals. A recent survey indicated that nearly seventy-five per cent of children in urban areas own a smartphone, which raises alarms regarding their mental well-being. The WHO emphasised that, in moderation, technology can be beneficial, but uncontrolled usage poses serious risks.

In light of these findings, parents and educators are urged to be cautious about children’s screen time. It is recommended that adults engage with children regarding their smartphone use, fostering healthy practices while providing opportunities for offline activities that encourage social interaction and cognitive skill development.

Generative AI Risks Identified

The WHO report also expressed concerns regarding generative artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications for children. With the rise of AI-driven tools and platforms, there are fears that children may become overly reliant on these technologies for learning and creativity. Such reliance could stifle their natural curiosity and critical thinking abilities.

Researchers indicated that the accessibility of generative AI tools could result in diminished skills in problem-solving and independent thought. Children exposed to such technologies might find it challenging to differentiate between original ideas and those generated by AI, which could impact their understanding of authorship and creativity.

As generative AI becomes increasingly integrated into educational settings, it is essential that guidelines are established to ensure that children learn to use these tools responsibly. Educators are encouraged to incorporate discussions regarding the ethical use of AI in curricula, fostering an understanding of its limitations and possibilities.

Recommendations for Parents and Educators

The WHO has made several recommendations for both parents and educators to mitigate the risks associated with technology. They suggest implementing balanced screen time policies, where the use of smartphones and generative AI is limited and monitored. Creating a structured daily routine that incorporates technology-free hours can encourage children to engage in physical activity and face-to-face interactions.

Furthermore, the WHO advocates for increased awareness about the potential dangers of unchecked screen time and AI dependence. Workshops and informational sessions for parents can help equip them with strategies to guide their children in navigating technology safely and effectively.

Ultimately, fostering an environment that promotes healthy tech habits while encouraging intellectual curiosity will be crucial in enhancing children’s development. Parents, educators, and policymakers must collaborate to ensure that children can benefit from technology without compromising their mental health or cognitive growth.

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France’s national public health agency reported a significant spike in mortality rates, particularly within the Paris region, during the peak heat wave. On Wednesday, the deadliest day, over 1,200 fatalities were recorded, with numbers subsequently rising to more than 1,400 on the following two days. This surge contrasts sharply with the typical daily death count of 900 to 1,000 reported in April and May.

Impact of the Heat Wave Across Europe

The heat wave has not only affected France but has also influenced several neighbouring countries. Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic experienced new temperature records over the weekend. In Berlin, local police employed water cannons to provide relief for both residents and tourists near significant landmarks. Furthermore, emergency services across Europe have faced challenges addressing heat-related illnesses, thunderstorms, and heightened risks of wildfires.

As the extreme heat progressed eastwards, various regions under red alert warnings for extreme weather noted the highest increases in mortality rates. Health officials estimated that 85 per cent of those who succumbed to the heat were aged 65 and above, necessitating urgent discussions on effective preparedness for climate-related health crises.

According to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, approximately 150 million individuals in Europe are currently enduring extreme heat, resulting in numerous fatalities. He attributed this phenomenon to climate change, stating that annual incidents of such intensity have become increasingly common.

Climate Change and Related Risks

A study published by World Weather Attribution has indicated that the exceptionally high temperatures felt across Europe last week could not have occurred without the influence of climate change. The research asserts that such heat conditions were nearly impossible just fifty years ago and are now 200 times more likely than they were two decades prior.

Germany experienced record heat for the third consecutive day, with temperatures soaring to 41.7 degrees Celsius. Poland recorded a high of 40.5 degrees Celsius, and the Czech Republic set a new record at 41.9 degrees Celsius. These extreme weather conditions have also led to other significant incidents, including injuries caused by lightning strikes in Sweden and thunderstorms interrupting daily life throughout the region.

In Germany, wildfires have exacerbated the crisis. For instance, a forest fire in Gohrischheide posed challenges to local emergency services, particularly due to the presence of World War II munitions in the area. In Traisen, another forest fire spread rapidly, leading to evacuations and the temporary suspension of firefighting efforts due to explosions from unexploded ordnance. Fire departments in major urban centres are experiencing an uptick in heat-related medical calls as the situation escalates.

Infrastructure damage has also been significant, with many highways in Germany affected due to the extreme conditions. National rail services have warned travellers to avoid unnecessary journeys, while numerous incidents have led to train evacuations and delays across the network. Furthermore, tram services in Leipzig were suspended after high temperatures caused track damage. This widespread disruption underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address both immediate and long-term consequences of extreme heat across Europe.

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Currently, there is no approved vaccine, specific treatment, or rapid diagnostic tool tailored for the Bundibugyo strain, complicating management efforts. Potential vaccine and treatment candidates have been identified as suitable candidates for clinical trial prioritisation.

Public Health Emergency Declared Amid Conflict

The latest Ebola outbreak has emerged in eastern Congo, a region already ravaged by prolonged armed conflict, displacement, and inadequate healthcare systems. Recently, WHO designated the outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, noting that the magnitude of infections is likely much greater than officially documented. Estimates suggest that over 1,000 confirmed and suspected cases have surfaced in Congo, accompanied by hundreds of fatalities. However, actual figures may be significantly higher due to the virus potentially spreading without detection for weeks before it was recognised.

Healthcare professionals have indicated that one challenge in diagnosing the outbreak stemmed from the standard Ebola tests, which were not designed to identify the Bundibugyo variant and initially failed to detect it. This issue has resulted in delays in patient diagnoses, complicating response efforts.

Ebola Crisis Escalates in Mining Towns

Mongbwalu, a remote mining municipality in northeastern Congo located approximately 111 kilometres from Nyankunde, is at the outbreak’s epicentre. The area, known for its gold mining activities, has thousands of miners and traders battling tough working conditions with minimal resources. The virus has rapidly propagated within these mining communities, where health facilities are severely limited. Therefore, many ill miners must undertake long journeys to seek medical care.

Dr. Charles Kashindi, a key healthcare worker at Nyankunde Hospital, stated that several infected miners only reach medical facilities when their conditions have become dire. Reports note that one patient died just hours after arriving at the hospital, indicating the urgent need for better healthcare access in these regions.

Geographical challenges and ongoing violence significantly hinder medical response efforts. The area has endured over three decades of conflict. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has highlighted the dangerous intersection of warfare and disease within Congo, stressing that these factors make it exceedingly difficult to contain the Ebola outbreak.

Worsening Conditions for Healthcare Providers

Healthcare workers are also facing significant challenges as they manage not only Ebola but also other diseases like malaria, measles, and severe malnutrition. Tragically, several healthcare professionals treating Ebola patients have lost their lives. The Bundibugyo virus, which first emerged in Uganda in 2007, spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals.

Symptoms often start with fever, weakness, vomiting, and diarrhoea, but can progress to symptoms like severe bleeding, organ failure, and death in critical cases. Currently, there remains no vaccine or approved treatment specifically for this strain of Ebola, and the absence of a rapid diagnostic test has exacerbated delays in diagnosis.

In terms of global health implications, India has reported no cases of Ebola thus far. However, health authorities are monitoring incoming travellers from affected regions and advising against non-essential travel to outbreak-stricken areas. Currently, the risk to India is considered low, though vigilance remains essential as uncontrolled outbreaks can cross borders if not addressed promptly.

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Simultaneously, there is a hantavirus outbreak connected to a cruise ship journey to South America. The emergence of these two separate viral threats raises critical questions about international travel and the effectiveness of cross-border health coordination, particularly in light of lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the aftermath of widespread lockdowns due to the unpreparedness for COVID-19’s rapid spread, global leaders and health organisations are scrutinising their mechanisms for handling new outbreaks. The need for robust responses to these health emergencies continues to be paramount.

WHO Faces Funding Shortages Amid Health Crises

Since 2025, the WHO has encountered significant financial challenges due to reduced funding from its contributors, triggering concerns about its ability to respond effectively to health emergencies. The organisation’s budget for its projects from 2026 to 2027 has been cut by 9 per cent, amounting to over $6.2 billion.

This funding crisis has been exacerbated since the United States withdrew its financial support from the WHO in January 2026, following criticisms of the organisation’s management during the COVID-19 crisis. The withdrawal has led to significant cuts in critical health programmes, which are essential for monitoring and responding to disease outbreaks.

Experts warn that these budget reductions have severely weakened the WHO’s capacity for disease surveillance, thereby diminishing the global readiness to tackle pandemics effectively. Experts advocate that adequate funding is crucial for maintaining readiness and responsiveness to epidemic threats.

Importance Of International Coordination For Health Security

International cooperation is critical, particularly regarding the hantavirus outbreak affecting passengers from over 20 countries aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship. Effective coordination is vital for monitoring, contact tracing, and issuing public health guidelines.

The WHO plays a fundamental role in facilitating these international health efforts under the International Health Regulations. This includes deploying experts and coordinating emergency responses to outbreaks, ensuring that regional preparedness continues despite current financial strains.

Health professionals stress that diminished support for the WHO could delay outbreak detection and hinder timely responses, thereby increasing global vulnerability to potentially devastating health crises.

Challenges in Vaccine Development and Misinformation

In addition to funding issues, the antivaccine movement has gained traction, complicating public health response efforts. Misleading information regarding vaccines has contributed to hesitancy, undermining trust in health guidance during emergencies.

Recent reports indicate that significant funding cuts to vaccine research initiatives could threaten preparedness for future pandemics. For instance, the US Department of Health and Human Services cancelled approximately $500 million in funding aimed at developing mRNA vaccines in August last year.

Experts assert that consistent investment in vaccine research is essential for ensuring that necessary vaccines and treatments are readily available before a health crisis unfolds. Delaying investment can lead to greater economic and health ramifications in the event of an outbreak.

Despite these difficulties, advances in vaccine technology, particularly in mRNA vaccine development, have demonstrated a potential for rapid response in future crises, highlighting the importance of ongoing collaboration in the global health community.

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Local health officials are actively working to coordinate their response efforts, providing treatment to those affected and implementing preventive measures. These measures include vaccination campaigns, public awareness initiatives, and contact tracing to identify and isolate potential cases.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also been involved in the response, providing support and resources to local health systems. The collaboration between national and international health bodies aims to contain the outbreak and ensure that necessary medical support is available to those in need.

Symptoms and Transmission of Ebola

Ebola, a severe and often fatal disease, is characterised by symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, and bleeding. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals, making it crucial for healthcare workers and the public to adhere to strict hygiene practices.

As the outbreak progresses, authorities emphasise the importance of early detection and treatment. Individuals exhibiting symptoms are urged to seek medical attention immediately. The swift identification of cases is essential to prevent further transmission within communities.

Health officials have advised the public to refrain from handling or coming into contact with bodily fluids of anyone suspected to have the virus. They have also recommended avoiding gatherings where the risk of transmission could be heightened, particularly in rural areas where the outbreak is most pronounced.

Community Impact and Response Efforts

The outbreak has significant implications for communities in the affected regions, particularly in terms of healthcare access and economic stability. As families cope with the loss of loved ones, the local economy, which relies on agriculture and trade, faces challenges due to increased restrictions and fear of the virus.

In response, community leaders are rallying support for those affected by the outbreak. Initiatives have been launched to provide food and medical supplies to families in quarantine, ensuring that basic needs are met during this critical period.

Public health messaging is also being prioritised, with community meetings and information sessions aimed at educating residents about Ebola prevention and treatment. These efforts are essential for fostering trust in health authorities and encouraging widespread vaccination participation.

As part of the emergency declaration, local governments have mobilised additional resources to bolster healthcare facilities. These include training for medical personnel on Ebola treatment protocols and enhancing local capacity for managing potential future outbreaks.

Future Outlook on the Ebola Situation

Continued vigilance and community cooperation are imperative in the coming weeks. The importance of adhering to health recommendations and engaging in preventive behaviours cannot be overstated as efforts to manage the outbreak intensify.

The actions taken now will significantly influence the trajectory of the outbreak, underscoring the need for a concerted approach to overcome this public health challenge effectively.

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Health experts are now expressing heightened anxiety over the potential for this outbreak to surpass recent health crises, such as the hantavirus outbreak linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship. The DRC has a history of Ebola transmission and the viral infection is primarily transmitted through body fluids from infected individuals, including blood, vomit, and faeces.

In addition, Uganda, sharing a porous border with the DRC, has reported two confirmed cases, one resulting in death. The emergence of suspected cases in major urban centres like Kinshasa and Kampala has raised apprehension among health authorities. Meanwhile, the United States is in the process of repatriating at least six American citizens believed to have been exposed to the virus.

Challenges in Containing the Outbreak

The current situation presents greater risks compared to the hantavirus outbreak, largely because of Ebola’s transmission dynamics. The Ebola virus is spreading in regions where surveillance, diagnostic capabilities, and healthcare infrastructure are inadequately equipped to manage such health emergencies. Dr Gautam Menon from Ashoka University has noted that the comparison between these two outbreaks underscores why international agencies are particularly concerned about Ebola.

As cities like Kinshasa and Kampala see reported cases, experts warn that many infections might remain undetected due to inadequate healthcare access. The complexities arise further from the fact that there are no reliable methods currently available for diagnosing this specific strain of the Ebola virus, complicating efforts to contain its spread.

Additionally, Dr Menon emphasised the changed landscape in global health and limited resources available to tackle significant outbreaks, particularly in light of diminished US engagement in global health matters. Unlike the hantavirus incident, where tracing passengers was feasible, Ebola’s broader reach poses a more considerable challenge.

Unique Characteristics of the Current Ebola Virus Strain

The ongoing Ebola outbreak involves the Bundibugyo species of the virus rather than the well-documented Zaire strain. Virologist Dr Gagandeep Kang indicated that the Bundibugyo strain differs significantly from Zaire, with roughly 30 per cent genetic variation. This raises concerns regarding the efficacy of existing vaccines and antibody treatments.

Encounters with Ebola frequently lead to severe symptoms, including organ failure and considerable bleeding, further complicating public health responses. The recent outbreak is believed to have commenced in March, but insufficient healthcare access led to the misdiagnosis of initial cases as malaria or other common diseases.

Geographical barriers also complicate necessary health measures, as Ituri Province is particularly challenging to access. Cross-border movements for trade and familial reasons raise the likelihood of regional spread. Health officials believe that while regional transmission is an immediate concern, the possibility of a broader pandemic remains minimal if strict monitoring and containment protocols are implemented.

Despite the known and severe risks associated with Ebola, it is important to note that the virus does not spread through the air like diseases such as influenza or COVID-19. Direct contact with bodily fluids is required for transmission, meaning the global risk could remain relatively low with aggressive intervention.

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This startling discrepancy underscores the significant impact the pandemic had on global health and exposes systemic flaws in mortality data collection and reporting practices in various nations. The notion of excess deaths incorporates not only those directly attributed to Covid-19 but also fatalities indirectly linked to the pandemic’s effects.

The indirect deaths could have arisen from a range of factors, including healthcare system overload, delays in medical treatment, unavailability of healthcare practitioners, or patients being unable to seek care for other illnesses due to pandemic-induced lockdowns and healthcare disruptions. The report provides crucial insights into the pandemic’s far-reaching effects on health systems and communities around the globe.

Mortality Trends and Demographic Insights

Among the findings, the WHO noted that the most lethal phase of the pandemic occurred in 2021, during which the world witnessed an estimated 10.4 million excess deaths. This period was marked by the rapid spread of more virulent coronavirus variants, which further strained healthcare systems that were already grappling with shortages of essential resources like oxygen, intensive care unit beds, medications, and medical personnel.

While excess mortality rates decreased after 2021, the repercussions continued into subsequent years, with 3.3 million excess deaths reported globally in 2023. This statistic illustrates that the impact of Covid-19 persisted well after the peak infection waves.

Importantly, the WHO’s report also highlighted significant gender disparities in mortality rates. Throughout the pandemic, men exhibited a consistently higher excess mortality rate compared to women. At the peak in 2021, age-standardised mortality rates for men were nearly 50 per cent higher than those for women, indicating a need to explore the underlying factors contributing to this trend more closely.

Challenges in Mortality Reporting

The WHO’s findings also shed light on the demographic aspects that contributed to excess mortality. Notably, older populations were disproportionately affected, with individuals aged 85 and above experiencing mortality rates that were approximately ten times higher than those of younger adults. Many older adults had pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes and heart ailments, which made them more susceptible to severe complications from Covid-19.

Moreover, the analysis raised concerns about the reliability of mortality reporting systems worldwide. Several low- and lower-middle-income countries reportedly faced a much more substantial underlying impact from the pandemic than initial statistics suggested, primarily due to inadequate death registration systems and the lack of robust health data monitoring.

The WHO emphasized the urgent necessity for improved mortality tracking systems as a critical element in addressing future pandemics and health crises. Accurate data enables governments to identify high-risk populations, allocate healthcare resources efficiently, and respond rapidly to emerging threats to public health.

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The evacuation follows several days of uncertainty regarding the health of those on board the vessel, which houses approximately 150 passengers and crew. The ship is anticipated to continue its journey to Spain after the patients receive the necessary medical attention.

This move is a critical step as authorities work to contain an outbreak that has already resulted in fatalities among passengers. The situation on board has raised alarms, prompting swift action from health officials.

Fatalities and Current Cases Reported

Tragically, the outbreak has already claimed several lives, including a Dutch couple and a German national. These deaths have heightened concerns about the virus and its potential spread among those who were on the cruise. A British citizen who also travelled with the group remains in intensive care in South Africa, drawing further attention to the severity of the situation.

Adding to the complexity of the outbreak, Switzerland has confirmed that a passenger who returned from the MV Hondius has tested positive for hantavirus. This individual is currently receiving medical care in Zurich. Health officials in Switzerland have stated that the case does not pose a risk to the general public, alleviating concerns to some extent.

Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely, especially in light of the confirmed cases and reported fatalities. The strain of hantavirus identified among those affected has raised alarms, as it is known to occasionally spread between humans, although such instances are rare.

Global Health Implications and WHO Statement

Despite the seriousness of the outbreak, the World Health Organization has reiterated that the overall risk to the general population remains low. This perspective is crucial in helping authorities manage the public’s reaction and to maintain calm amidst rising fears of a larger health crisis.

Health agencies around the world are collaborating to share information and resources to address the situation comprehensively. Ongoing studies and monitoring of the virus’s behaviour and transmission are expected to be a priority for health officials in the coming days.

Overall, the response to the crisis aboard the MV Hondius illustrates the global nature of health challenges and the importance of swift action. As more information becomes available, authorities will continue to provide updates regarding the patients, the outbreak, and its implications for public health.

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The incident involves a Dutch-flagged cruise ship that was transporting 147 passengers and crew. As of May 4, seven cases of suspected hantavirus infections had been identified. Among these cases, two were laboratory-confirmed infections, and five were classified as suspected cases. Tragically, three individuals have died, while one patient is critically ill in intensive care. Three others are experiencing mild symptoms, according to WHO statements.

The severity of hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS) is highlighted by the 43 per cent mortality rate in this cluster, with deaths reported in relation to the seven cases. HCPS is noted for its rapid deterioration and is primarily caused by exposure to orthohantaviruses, which are typically found in rodent populations.

Details of the Investigation

The cruise ship featured 88 passengers and 59 crew members, having set sail from Ushuaia, Argentina, on April 1. The vessel’s itinerary included remote locations in the South Atlantic, such as Antarctica and various isolated islands. Investigators are currently assessing whether passengers were exposed to infected rodents or contaminated environments during shore excursions or before boarding the ship.

The initial reported case manifested symptoms on April 6 and deteriorated rapidly, leading to death shortly after. A second confirmed case, which involved close contact with the first patient, subsequently resulted in another death following evacuation to South Africa, where laboratory tests confirmed hantavirus infection. A third patient remains in intensive care, while an adult woman reportedly succumbed to the illness on May 2.

Onboard, three additional suspected cases are under examination as the vessel remains anchored off Cabo Verde. Coordination has been established among international health teams for isolation, testing, and potential medical evacuations.

Global Response and Future Monitoring

Health authorities worldwide have commenced contact tracing, particularly amongst passengers who disembarked or travelled internationally. While the situation is serious, experts assert that outbreaks tend to self-limit due to the transmission dynamics of the virus. Currently, there are no specific antiviral treatments or widely available vaccines for hantavirus, emphasising the importance of early detection and supportive care for affected individuals.

The WHO is committed to ongoing surveillance of the outbreak as investigations into its origins and impact proceed. In a related context, data from 2025 reported 229 hantavirus cases and 59 deaths across eight countries in the Americas, resulting in a case fatality rate of 25.7 per cent. In contrast, 1,885 hantavirus infections were documented in Europe in 2023, marking the lowest incidence between 2019 and 2023.

In East Asia, particularly in China and the Republic of Korea, hantavirus haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) remains a significant health issue, accounting for thousands of cases annually. However, the incidence rate has seen a decline in recent decades, according to the WHO’s assessments.

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Thematic Focus of World Health Day 2026

This year’s World Health Day theme, “Together for Health. Stand with Science,” accentuates the importance of placing scientific evidence at the forefront of policies, preparedness, and public health initiatives. This approach aims to ensure that evidence-based measures are swiftly adopted to protect communities. In alignment with this theme, the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) is advancing the South Asia Hub of the Global Heat Health Information Network (GHHIN) under a cooperation programme between WHO and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) concerning climate and health.

The Hub, supported by the Wellcome Trust, will collaborate closely with the South Asia Climate and Health Desk at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology and the India Meteorological Department. Its aim is to enhance preparedness by converting scientific findings into actionable early warnings and strategies to safeguard communities from extreme heat events.

Dr Boehme noted that this initiative exemplifies a One Health approach, merging climate science, public health, and collaboration to create effective solutions that prevent loss of life. As the intensity of extreme heat escalates, applying scientific knowledge will be vital in transforming evidence into essential early warnings and protective measures for vulnerable populations.

Progress Across the Region

Countries across the South-East Asia Region are showcasing how scientific collaboration can yield practical solutions to health challenges. In Bangladesh, a comprehensive dengue surveillance system has been established, which significantly enhances outbreak prediction and response mechanisms. Similarly, Sri Lanka and Bhutan have prioritised zoonotic diseases and conducted joint risk assessments, leading to improved interdepartmental cooperation for health responses.

In India, advancements in digital surveillance and early warning systems are expanding to utilise diverse data sources effectively. Thailand’s government has demonstrated strong political commitment through a unified approach that facilitates rapid detection and response to emerging infectious diseases, showcasing a proactive health strategy.

WHO emphasised that to progress these initiatives further, there is a pressing need for more advanced interoperable surveillance systems, enhanced data sharing practices, and continued financial backing for scientific research and analytics. Such measures are essential for facilitating timely and evidence-informed actions against health risks.

Call to Action on World Health Day

On the occasion of World Health Day, WHO called for a collective effort from various stakeholders. The organisation urged governments and institutions to allocate resources towards science-informed policies and One Health methodologies. Additionally, it called upon scientists and researchers to create and disseminate actionable evidence, while health professionals are encouraged to endorse scientific principles and provide evidence-based care.

Communities are also urged to seek reliable information and engage in protective practices. As health risks become ever more complicated and interwoven, WHO stressed that solidarity in science and mutual support will be critical for safeguarding lives and fostering a healthier, more resilient future for everyone.

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