Flu Season Surges, Visa Bond Requirements Expand, and More: Your Week in Review

As the United States enters the new year, several key developments are making headlines. The flu season is in full swing, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting high influenza activity across most states. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has expanded its list of countries whose citizens must pay up to $15,000 bonds to apply for US visas. In other news, a new weight-loss pill has become available, and offshore wind developers are suing the administration over halted projects. First, the flu: according to the CDC's latest weekly report, positive influenza test results have reached the highest levels of the season, with 32.9% of samples testing positive for the virus. The report, which was delayed due to the winter holidays, shows that flu illnesses are surging across the country. The CDC publishes a weekly influenza surveillance report that details positive case counts, illness activity levels by state, and breakdowns of flu types. As the flu season continues to worsen, health experts are urging Americans to take precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones. Common symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's essential to seek medical attention promptly. In other news, the Trump administration has quietly expanded its list of countries whose citizens must pay up to $15,000 bonds to apply for US visas. The list, which now includes 13 countries, all but two of them in Africa, makes it more difficult for citizens of these countries to enter the United States. The State Department added seven new countries to the list, including Bhutan, Botswana, the Central African Republic, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Namibia, and Turkmenistan, effective January 1. The visa bond requirement is the latest effort by the Trump administration to restrict immigration to the United States. Critics argue that the policy is discriminatory and will disproportionately affect low-income individuals and families. The administration, however, maintains that the policy is necessary to ensure that visa applicants are committed to returning to their home countries. In more positive news, a new weight-loss pill has become available in the United States. Novo Nordisk's Wegovy pill, which contains the active ingredient semaglutide, is the first and only oral GLP-1 medication for weight loss in adults. The pill, which was approved by the Food and Drug Administration on December 22, is available at over 70,000 pharmacies across the country. According to Novo Nordisk, the pill is priced competitively with other weight-loss medications on the market. Finally, offshore wind developers are suing the Trump administration over its decision to halt $25 billion in projects. The lawsuits, which were filed in federal court, seek to reverse the Department of the Interior's stop-work order, which affected five offshore wind projects off the Eastern Seaboard. The developers argue that the administration's decision was arbitrary and capricious, and that it will harm the environment and the economy. In a surprising move, investor Kevin O'Leary revealed that he pulled a power move before accepting his role in the TV show "Marty Supreme." According to O'Leary, he asked for changes to the script before agreeing to participate in the show. While the details of the changes are unclear, O'Leary's move highlights the importance of negotiation and advocacy in the entertainment industry. As the week comes to a close, these stories highlight the complexities and challenges facing the United States. From the flu season to visa bond requirements, weight-loss pills, and offshore wind projects, there's no shortage of news to stay on top of. Stay informed, and stay safe.