Asia-Pacific hunger eases, Gaza pipeline fixed, Europe hit by flu

A family in Tuyên Quang province in Viret Nam is provided with nutritional supplements by a UNICEF worker.

While the Asia-Pacific region has made notable progress in reducing hunger, persistent challenges remain in addressing malnutrition, food insecurity, and unequal access to healthy diets, a new UN report published on Wednesday concludes.

The prevalence of undernourishment in the region declined to 6.4% in 2024, down from 7% in 2023, marking a significant improvement, according to the report. This progress translates into 25 million people escaping hunger in just one year.

Progress is uneven, however, with nearly 80% of people living in South Asia still at risk. Overall, Asia and the Pacific region account for nearly 40% of the world’s hungry.

Cost is the culprit
In 2024, 24.4% of children under five were stunted, with South Asia recording the highest prevalence. Meanwhile, adult obesity continues to rise, particularly in Oceania (Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific).

The report finds that the cost of a healthy diet in the region averaged $4.77 per person per day (Purchasing Power Parity), higher than the global average. It also calls on countries to strengthen multisector policies addressing food insecurity and nutrition.

Key Gaza water pipeline repaired, but conditions remain dire
In Gaza, a key water pipeline in the south is back in operation after a repair team was granted access by Israeli authorities.

The UN aid coordination office (OCHA) reported that the main water line running from Israel into Khan Younis in southern Gaza had been damaged and was out of service, affecting the enclave’s 2.1 million residents. A previous request for repair access had been denied.

Preparing for winter
Amid cold winter temperatures, UN agencies and partners continue efforts to help Gazans stay warm. UNICEF welcomed support from Sweden for winterization supplies, sanitation, nutrition, and humanitarian cash transfers for children and families.

The UN Development Programme (UNDP) emphasized the need for safe and sturdy shelters. With assistance from South Korea, the agency has replaced more than 800 worn-out tents for displaced Gazans, though much more remains to be done.

New influenza strain sweeps Europe, says WHO
The early arrival of seasonal influenza has spread across Europe, with at least 27 countries reporting “high or very high” flu activity as of Wednesday.

In six countries—Ireland, Kyrgyzstan, Montenegro, Serbia, Slovenia, and the UK—more than half of patients with influenza-like symptoms tested positive for the virus, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

New variant dominates
A new influenza variant, A (H3N2), now accounts for up to 90% of confirmed cases in Europe. “Even a small genetic variation in the flu virus can put enormous pressure on health systems because people lack immunity,” said Dr. Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe.

He stressed the importance of timely vaccination. School-aged children remain primary drivers of community spread, while adults aged 65 and above are most at risk for severe cases requiring hospitalization.