Armenia’s plastic retail limits, Congo Ebola trials, Cyclone Murasu

Armenia to ban some plastic bags and single-use plastics in retail

Armenia’s coming retail restrictions cover specified bags, containers and tableware while exempting certain packaging used for goods sold by weight.

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Cyclone Murasu makes landfall on India’s east coast

Cyclone Murasu came ashore near Ongole after authorities began evacuations. The weather department warned of heavy rain, and its advice to fishermen runs through 4 November.

Vietnam records its hottest October since 1961

Vietnam recorded its hottest October in a series beginning in 1961. The forecasting center expects further above-average temperatures, while warning that brief intense cold spells and heavy rain remain possible.

US environmental agency ends factory-farm emissions estimates work

The EPA has stopped developing national emissions estimates for participating livestock and poultry operations and plans to notify them before terminating their agreement.

Armenia’s mining inspectorate finds 114 suspected illegal extraction cases

Armenia’s mining inspectorate has sent reports of apparent crimes in 114 cases to law enforcement. Its findings distinguish cases found during company inspections from those uncovered through proceedings the inspectorate initiated, with the reports submitted for further action.

Armenia joins Freshwater Challenge to restore rivers and wetlands

Armenia has joined the voluntary Freshwater Challenge, which calls on members to set national freshwater restoration and protection targets. WWF Armenia director Levon Aghasyan says membership could help the country obtain international support for aquatic conservation.

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DR Congo Ebola deaths reach 5,372, Africa health agency says

The Democratic Republic of the Congo accounts for 5,372 Ebola deaths in Africa CDC’s latest figures. Researchers have begun vaccine trials against the outbreak strain, for which there is no approved vaccine or specific treatment.

Washington’s Yakima County resident dies of bird flu, health officials say

County health officials said a Yakima County resident died after hospitalization for severe bird flu. The CDC found no genetic changes associated with easier spread or more severe illness; health teams are tracing contacts of the dairy-linked infections.

New York child dies of measles in state’s first death in 30 years

A child in Lewis County has died after contracting measles, New York officials said, marking the state’s first measles-related death in 30 years. Federal health officials plan to update their national death count as further information becomes available and reviews are completed.

UK health agency launches study of chemical exposure

The UK Health Security Agency has launched a study using samples from an existing English health survey to establish typical chemical exposure levels. The findings are intended to strengthen the evidence on exposure, rather than determine what a result means for an individual’s long-term health.

US agency offers up to $1 million to study gender dysphoria and violence

The US Justice Department’s research arm is offering up to $1 million for research on gender dysphoria, treatment and violent behavior. Critics warn the priority could divert attention from far-right violence; applicants have until 23 November 2026 to seek funding.

Czech mission documents Ikhetnefert’s chapel at Saqqara

The Czech mission documented Ikhetnefert’s previously unknown chapel within tombs explored earlier by Auguste Mariette. The mummy finding was already described in an earlier university account. The mission continues studying and conserving the monuments while searching for further tombs.