Public Health & Safety: Laos ordered an immediate nationwide suspension of “Squishy” toy imports and sales after inspections found undeclared hazardous chemicals, including excessive benzene, raising risks of eye/throat irritation, allergies, and possible long-term cancer concerns for children. Health Partnerships: Laos and UNFPA marked 50 years of partnership in Vientiane, reaffirming work on sexual and reproductive health, maternal and child health, youth empowerment, gender equality, and population data systems. Clinical Care Upgrade: Friendship Hospital in Laos says it is ready to perform kidney transplant surgery for end-stage chronic kidney disease, supported by trained staff and a technical cooperation program with Ramathibodi Hospital (Thailand). Tobacco Control Capacity: Laos’ Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office launched its 2026 tobacco control training for 900+ professionals across the WHO Western Pacific Region via monthly webinars. Food Safety: A Lao Gan Ma hot chilli oil batch was recalled in Australia for missing peanut allergen labeling, warning people with peanut allergy to seek medical advice and return the product. Travel Health Alert: The UK Foreign Office renewed warnings about methanol poisoning risks for travellers, referencing deaths linked to contaminated alcohol in Vang Vieng, Laos.