CANTERBURY, England — A rapidly spreading outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease, primarily strain B, has killed two young people and hospitalized others in Kent, southeastern England, prompting urgent public health measures, antibiotic distribution and a scramble for vaccines amid depleted private supplies.
Deadly Meningococcal Outbreak in Kent Claims Two Lives, Sparks Vaccine Shortage as Cases Climb to 20
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported as of 3:30 p.m. on March 17, 2026, nine confirmed and 11 probable cases with epidemiological links to Canterbury, totaling 20 notifications. Six of the nine confirmed cases involve group B meningococcal disease (MenB), a severe bacterial infection causing meningitis and septicaemia. All affected individuals required hospitalization, with no additional deaths reported since the initial two fatalities announced earlier in the week.
The victims include an 18-year-old sixth-form pupil from a school in Faversham and a student at the University of Kent. Health officials link most cases to patrons of Club Chemistry nightclub in Canterbury who attended events on March 5, 6 and 7, along with associated social networks. The outbreak has extended beyond the university to at least three schools and, more recently, Canterbury Christ Church University, which confirmed its first case on March 18.
UKHSA described the cluster as “explosive” and “unprecedented” in speed and scale for the region. Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Thomas Waite called it “by far the quickest-growing outbreak I’ve ever seen.” Cases surged from initial reports of 13 on March 15 to 15 by March 16 evening, then to 20 by March 17 afternoon.
Symptoms of invasive meningococcal disease include high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, confusion and a characteristic non-blanching rash. The infection progresses rapidly, sometimes within hours, making early recognition critical. Septicaemia, or blood poisoning, often accompanies meningitis and can lead to organ failure and death even with prompt treatment.
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Health Secretary Wes Streeting updated Parliament on March 17, stressing that UKHSA acted “as quickly and comprehensively as possible.” Authorities distributed preventive antibiotics — typically ciprofloxacin or rifampicin — to close contacts and at-risk individuals, including nightclub attendees from the implicated dates. Officials urged anyone present at Club Chemistry during those evenings to seek antibiotics immediately, even if asymptomatic, as a precautionary measure.
Vaccination efforts face challenges. The MenB vaccine, introduced into the UK’s routine childhood schedule in 2015, protects infants but does not cover older children, adolescents or young adults born before that year. Private supplies of the Bexsero MenB vaccine have run low due to surging demand, with pharmacies reporting shortages. The NHS has not launched a widespread catch-up campaign, though experts argue for expanded access given the outbreak’s impact on university-aged populations.
Public concern has intensified, with parents and students questioning the response speed. Some accused authorities of delays in alerting the community, though officials maintain contact tracing and prophylaxis began promptly upon confirmation. Streeting urged sticking to facts and avoiding panic, noting the outbreak remains localized.
Meningitis Now and other charities welcomed the focus on MenB but stressed ongoing work needed. The strain accounts for most recent UK cases, particularly among teens and young adults in close-contact settings like universities and nightclubs.
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Broader context highlights meningitis risks in social environments. Universities see higher transmission due to shared living, parties and physical proximity. The Kent cases echo past clusters but stand out for rapid escalation.
In the United States, separate meningococcal trends continue. Chicago reported an unusual adult cluster since January 15, 2026, with 10 cases and two deaths by mid-February, primarily on the West and Southwest Sides. Nationally, U.S. cases rose sharply post-2021, reaching 503 in 2024 — the highest since 2013 — driven largely by serogroup Y increases. CDC surveillance shows ongoing elevation, though no direct link to the UK event.
Globally, meningococcal threats persist in pilgrimage settings. Saudi Arabia reported travel-associated cases linked to Umrah in early 2025, with low vaccination compliance among some pilgrims raising importation risks. The African meningitis belt continues facing seasonal epidemics, though vaccination has reduced serogroup A dominance.
The Kent outbreak underscores bacterial meningitis dangers despite vaccination progress. While MenACWY vaccines cover other strains for travelers and high-risk groups, MenB remains a challenge for adolescents outside routine programs.
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Authorities continue tracing contacts and monitoring for secondary cases. Residents in Canterbury and east Kent should watch for symptoms and seek immediate medical care if concerned. UKHSA updates will track developments, with pharmacies urged to prioritize at-risk individuals for remaining vaccine stock.
As investigations proceed, the tragedy highlights the need for vigilance in crowded settings and potential policy reviews on adolescent MenB protection.
Europe’s largest airlines extended their suspensions of flights to Dubai and other major Middle Eastern travel hubs amid the conflict in the region.
On-and-off airspace and airport restrictions are forcing carriers worldwide to reroute planes, on sometimes lengthy detours at a time when energy prices are rising due to oil supply constraints.
Cryptocurrency exchange Kraken has put its multibillion-dollar initial public offering plan on hold, CoinDesk reported on Wednesday, citing two people with knowledge of the matter
The company is still weighing an IPO, but is unlikely to move ahead until market conditions improve, according to the report.
The company confidentially filed for a U.S. IPO in November 2025. Kraken was set to go public in the first quarter of 2026.
Initially focused on crypto, the company has expanded across asset classes in recent months, including equities with the rollout of commission-free trading.
Iran certainly is not a forever war as President Trump has said many times. Indeed, Mr. Trump is “ending” Iran’s forever war against the United States. Yet now it looks like the Fed chairman, Jay Powell, wants to be the Fed’s first forever board member. Telling a press conference that he will remain on the Federal Reserve’s board of governors until the investigation is “well and truly over.” Whatever that means.
This is unwelcome news to stock markets, as the Dow fell by more than 700 points, to a new 2026 low. It fell about 300 points after Mr. Powell made his forever board member comment. All the indexes were down today. Bond rates went up. As did oil prices.
Actually, the Fed’s dot plot of economic projections suggested only one projected rate cut this year instead of three before the war began. They also suggested higher inflation and a slight rise in growth.
What you really want is for the Fed to just keep its powder dry, as the Iran war winds down and oil prices move back to pre-war normalcy. Yet it seems like the Fed is already signaling a higher interest rate policy, which would do some damage to the American economy.
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That’s one reason why it’s crucial that Mr. Trump’s nominee for Fed chairman, Kevin Warsh, be liberated as rapidly as possible to take over the central bank’s helm and get rid of the Fed models that say stronger growth leads to higher inflation. I’m calling it #FreeKevin.
And have someone who understands the economic growth benefits of lower tax rates, deregulation, and drill baby drill, which is a prosperity prescription that would raise growth and reduce inflation. And protect King Dollar.
Yet in order to liberate Mr. Warsh, it seems like the Justice Department has got to settle its disagreement with the Federal Reserve. Otherwise, Mr. Warsh will never get through the Senate Banking Committee, even though they love him, and Mr. Powell will stay at the Fed forever.
He might even be somehow voted to stay on as chairman by the Fed’s policy-setting body, the Open Market Committee, which really always leans against Mr. Trump. Or Steven Miran would have to give up his board seat to make room for Mr. Warsh’s board appointment, but not necessarily as the chairman. If you think this is a confusing and bizarre scenario, you would be right.
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I believe that post-war American growth potential is around 5 percent. And as energy prices normalize, the inflation rate will drop below 2 percent. By the way, on inflation, a measure of the money supply, M2, is growing at 3.5 percent, not President Biden’s 30 percent.
Government spending has slowed down. And the dollar’s been rising. Those are all counter-inflationary moves. The Jay Powell Fed only sees a measly 2 percent economic growth. That’s what their models tell, but it’s garbage in, garbage out. Please will someone liberate Mr. Kevin Warsh? #FreeKevin.
Sydney — As Australia intensifies its push toward net-zero emissions and circular economy practices in 2026, a growing number of businesses are setting benchmarks for environmental responsibility. From innovative startups tackling waste and energy challenges to established firms embedding sustainability into core operations, these companies demonstrate that profitability and planetary health can align.
Recent reports, including the Corporate Knights Global 100 ranking and World Benchmarking Alliance assessments, highlight Australian leaders in areas like waste management, renewable energy and low-impact manufacturing. B Corp certification, now held by over 740 companies across Australia and New Zealand, provides a rigorous measure of social and environmental performance. Here are 10 standout eco-friendly companies making significant impacts in 2026.
Brambles Ltd
Brambles Ltd The global supply-chain solutions provider, headquartered in Sydney, ranks among the world’s most sustainable corporations in the 2026 Corporate Knights Global 100. Brambles, parent of CHEP pallet pooling, excels in circular economy models that reuse and recycle wooden pallets, reducing deforestation and waste. Its near-perfect scores in sustainability metrics reflect strong governance, low emissions intensity and resource efficiency, positioning it as a leader in sustainable logistics.
Sims Ltd A Melbourne-based recycling giant, Sims secured a high placement in the 2026 Global 100 for its waste management expertise. The company processes millions of tons of metal, electronics and other materials annually, diverting waste from landfills and recovering valuable resources. Sims’ focus on circularity, emissions reduction and ethical sourcing earns it consistent A- ratings, making it a cornerstone of Australia’s resource recovery sector.
Hysata This Wollongong startup is pioneering green hydrogen production with capillary-fed electrolyser technology that promises higher efficiency and lower costs than traditional methods. Recognized among top sustainability innovators, Hysata’s advancements support Australia’s hydrogen export ambitions and domestic decarbonization, attracting significant investment and positioning the company as a frontrunner in clean energy transition.
Bygen Based in Adelaide, Bygen transforms agricultural waste like nut shells into high-value activated carbon for water filtration and air purification. The process sequesters carbon while addressing pollution, exemplifying innovative waste-to-resource solutions. As a highlighted sustainability startup, Bygen contributes to reducing industrial emissions and promoting bio-based materials in 2026.
Gaia EnviroTech Operating from Victoria, Gaia converts organic waste into renewable energy and bio-fertilizers through advanced anaerobic digestion. Its systems help businesses manage food and agricultural waste sustainably, cutting methane emissions and generating clean biogas. The company’s waste-to-energy approach aligns with national circular economy goals and supports local decarbonization efforts.
Yume This Melbourne-based platform combats food waste by connecting surplus food from manufacturers and retailers to charities and businesses. Yume’s digital marketplace has redistributed millions of meals, reducing landfill contributions and addressing food insecurity. Its scalable model earns praise as a practical solution to one of Australia’s major environmental and social challenges.
Who Gives A Crap The toilet paper company, founded in Melbourne, uses 100% recycled or bamboo materials and donates 50% of profits to sanitation projects. Certified B Corp status underscores its commitment to ethical sourcing, plastic-free packaging and carbon-neutral operations. In 2026, it continues expanding sustainable consumer goods while supporting global hygiene initiatives.
Returnr A reusable packaging pioneer, Returnr offers deposit-return systems for food containers and coffee cups, eliminating single-use plastics in cafes and events. The company’s closed-loop model reduces waste and encourages consumer behavior change. Featured in sustainability roundups, Returnr exemplifies practical steps toward a zero-waste economy.
Australian Ethical Investment As one of Australia’s first publicly listed B Corps, this Canberra-based firm manages funds focused exclusively on positive-impact investments. It avoids fossil fuels and prioritizes renewables, ethical labor and environmental stewardship. Its influence shapes capital flows toward sustainable projects, amplifying eco-friendly business growth nationwide.
Outland Denim The Queensland fashion brand produces sustainable jeans using eco-friendly materials and fair labor practices. Certified B Corp, Outland emphasizes low-water denim production and ethical supply chains. Its “cycle of freedom” mission combines environmental care with social impact, inspiring sustainable fashion in Australia.
These companies reflect broader trends in 2026: stronger governance linking executive pay to sustainability targets, rising climate transition planning and innovation in green technologies. While mining and energy sectors face scrutiny, leaders like Brambles and Sims show resource-intensive industries can achieve high sustainability standards. Startups such as Hysata and Bygen drive breakthroughs in clean energy and waste valorization.
Government policies, including enhanced emissions reporting and incentives for renewables, support this momentum. Investor expectations and regulatory pressure push more firms toward credible action. As Australia navigates its nature-dependent economy, these eco-friendly trailblazers offer models for balancing growth with environmental stewardship.
Los Angeles — Australian actress Samara Weaving, 34, continues her ascent in Hollywood with a string of high-profile roles, including a highly anticipated horror sequel and an upcoming action-comedy thriller. Known for her fearless performances in genre films, Weaving has solidified her status as a modern scream queen while embracing personal milestones, including her first pregnancy announced in late 2025. As she promotes two major projects premiering in early 2026, here are 10 key things to know about the versatile performer.
Samara Weaving
Born in Adelaide, Raised Globally Weaving was born Feb. 23, 1992, in Adelaide, South Australia. Her family moved frequently during her childhood, living in Singapore, Fiji, Indonesia and Australia due to her father’s diplomatic career. This nomadic upbringing exposed her to diverse cultures early on, shaping her adaptability and global perspective — traits that serve her well in an international film industry.
Early Breakthrough in Australian Television Weaving launched her career in Australia with roles in popular series. She gained recognition for her work on the long-running soap opera “Home and Away” (2009-2013), where she played Indi Walker. The part showcased her dramatic range and helped her transition from local TV to international projects, laying the foundation for her move to Hollywood.
Breakout Horror Role in ‘The Babysitter’ Weaving’s U.S. breakthrough came with the 2017 Netflix horror-comedy “The Babysitter,” directed by McG. Her portrayal of the villainous Bee solidified her genre credentials. The film’s success led to a sequel in 2020, establishing her as a go-to actress for dark, comedic horror roles that blend gore with sharp wit.
Iconic Performance in ‘Ready or Not’ Weaving achieved widespread acclaim in 2019’s “Ready or Not,” playing Grace, a bride thrust into a deadly game of hide-and-seek with her in-laws. The film’s blend of satire, suspense and blood-soaked action made it a cult favorite. Weaving’s physical commitment and ability to convey both vulnerability and ferocity earned her praise as a standout scream queen.
Reprising Grace in ‘Ready or Not 2: Here I Come’ In 2026, Weaving returns as Grace in “Ready or Not 2: Here I Come,” directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett (Radio Silence). The sequel premiered at SXSW in March 2026, with Weaving reuniting with co-stars including Elijah Wood, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Kathryn Newton. Despite being heavily pregnant, she attended a Los Angeles screening on March 16, 2026, at AMC The Grove, baring her baby bump in a peekaboo dress and reuniting with Margot Robbie.
Starring in SXSW Double-Feature Weaving headlined a gory double-feature at SXSW 2026 with “Ready or Not 2” and “Over Your Dead Body,” an action-comedy thriller directed by Jorma Taccone. The latter, a remake of the Norwegian film “The Trip,” co-stars Jason Segel and follows a couple’s romantic getaway that turns murderous. Weaving joined the SXSW premiere via FaceTime and cutout due to her pregnancy, but her involvement underscores her commitment to bold, genre-blending projects.
Upcoming Crime Romance ‘Carolina Caroline’ Weaving stars in “Carolina Caroline,” a crime romance set to premiere June 5, 2026. The film pairs her with Kyle Gallner and Kyra Sedgwick, promising a shift toward more dramatic territory while maintaining her edge in intense storytelling.
Personal Life: Married to Jimmy Warden Weaving married screenwriter and director Jimmy Warden in 2019. The couple met on the set of “The Babysitter: Killer Queen” and have collaborated professionally. Warden’s creative influence appears in her career choices, blending her horror roots with varied genres.
Expecting First Child In late 2025, Weaving announced she is expecting her first child with Warden. The pregnancy has been highly visible in 2026 promotions, including a March ELLE Australia cover featuring an intimate, at-home photoshoot in white lace. Weaving has shared glimpses of her relaxed energy during this time, balancing motherhood preparations with a busy filming schedule.
Embracing Genre Versatility and Future Aspirations Despite her horror reputation, Weaving has expressed interest in branching out. In a March 2026 Deadline interview, she described herself as a “scaredy-cat” growing up but now thrives in intense roles. She harbors “quiet dreams” of improv comedy and lighter projects. Her executive producer credit on “Ready or Not 2” signals growing involvement behind the camera, hinting at expanded creative control in future endeavors.
Weaving’s 2026 marks a pivotal year: major releases, personal joy and continued genre dominance. With her blend of physicality, charisma and range, she remains one of Hollywood’s most compelling rising stars, poised for even greater impact as she navigates motherhood and an evolving career.
HeartFlow, Inc. (HTFL) Q4 2025 Earnings Call March 18, 2026 4:30 PM EDT
Company Participants
Nicholas Laudico – Vice President of Investor Relations John Farquhar – President, CEO & Director Vikram Verghese – Chief Financial Officer
Conference Call Participants
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Robert Marcus – JPMorgan Chase & Co, Research Division William Plovanic – Canaccord Genuity Corp., Research Division Matthew O’Brien – Piper Sandler & Co., Research Division
Presentation
Operator
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Good day, everyone, and welcome to HeartFlow Fourth Quarter 2025 Earnings Conference Call. [Operator Instructions] Please note, this conference is being recorded. I would now like to turn the conference over to the Vice President of Investor Relations, Nic Laudico. Please proceed.
Nicholas Laudico Vice President of Investor Relations
Good afternoon, everyone, and welcome to the HeartFlow Fourth Quarter 2025 Earnings Conference Call. Joining me today are John Farquhar, Heartflow’s President and Chief Executive Officer; and Vikram Verghese, our Chief Financial Officer. Today, we will walk you through our Q4 and 2025 performance, share updates on our commercial momentum, innovation pipeline and clinical programs and provide financial guidance. A live Q&A session will follow. The earnings release accompanying today’s discussion is available on our Investor Relations website at ir.heartflow.com.
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During this call, we will refer to certain non-GAAP financial measures. Reconciliations to the most comparable GAAP figures can be found in today’s earnings release. I’d like to remind everyone that certain statements made on this call are forward-looking within the meaning of federal securities laws. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs, involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially. Please note that both this live call and a digital replay will be available shortly after the call concludes. With that, I will now turn the call over to John Farquhar, CEO.
Hello, and welcome to the Usio’s Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2025 Earnings Conference Call.
[Operator Instructions]
Please note, today’s event is being recorded. I would now like to turn the conference over to your host, Mr. Paul Manley. Please go ahead, sir.
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Paul Manley Senior Vice President of Investor Relations
Thank you, operator. Good afternoon, and welcome to Usio’s Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2025 Conference Call. The earnings release, which we issued today after the market close, is available on our website at usio.com under the Investor Relations tab. On this call with me today are Louis Hoch, our Chairman and CEO; and Greg Carter, Executive Vice President of Payment Acceptance and our Chief Revenue Officer; Michael White, Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer; and Jerry Uffner, Head of Card Issuing, will also be available during the question-and-answer session.
Let me remind our listeners that certain statements made today during the call constitute forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities and Litigation Act of 1995 as amended and as more fully discussed in our press release and in our filings with the SEC.
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So let me start off today’s call with some highlights from this afternoon’s release. It was a solid quarter, in line with our
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