Dangerous Influenza Outbreak: What’s Behind the So‑Called “Super Flu”

A European Union country has reported the first confirmed case of a mutated H3N2 influenza strain, informally referred to by the media as the “super flu.” Health experts across the continent are expressing growing concern. Mutated H3N2 Raises Alarm According to Romania’s National Institute of Public Health (INSP), the altered virus strain was recently detected in the country. Authorities warn that it may lead to more severe illness, particularly among vulnerable populations. The INSP highlights increased risks for older adults, pregnant individuals, people with chronic health conditions, and those with…

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A Fog-Filled Pre‑Christmas Weekend in Vienna

Vienna is heading into yet another pre‑holiday weekend wrapped in thick fog. According to the latest forecast, the city won’t be shaking off its grey blanket anytime soon. Expect single‑digit temperatures and, with a bit of luck, perhaps a warm cup of punch at a Christmas market to brighten the mood. It’s a dreary December in the capital. And no, the grey isn’t coming from artificial snow on Christmas trees — it’s the weather right outside the door. Fog has become a constant companion for people making their way through…

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City of Vienna to Raise Additional Fees Starting in 2026

Vienna will not only see higher public transport fares and parking costs next year — several other municipal fees will also increase beginning January 2026. MeinBezirk provides an overview of what residents can expect. Budget Background A few weeks ago, the City of Vienna presented an initial outline of its 2026 budget. The projected deficit stands at 2.65 billion euros, with planned expenditures of 22.16 billion euros. The full draft budget was published on November 14. Some fee increases had already been announced earlier. As of January 1, the annual…

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“Six Seven”: The Youth Are Saying It — and No One Really Knows What It Means

On a chilly December afternoon in Vienna, a group of teenagers spill out of a tram at Schwedenplatz. Their jackets are oversized, their headphones even larger, and their slang — as always — is a universe of its own. One boy bumps into another, laughs, and shouts, “Bro, that was so six seven!” His friends nod knowingly. A nearby adult raises an eyebrow. Six what? Seven who? Welcome to the latest linguistic mystery sweeping through youth culture: “Six Seven.” A phrase that seems to mean everything, nothing, and whatever the…

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Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy in Vienna Announces 2025 Simbang Gabi Schedule

Vienna, Austria — The Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy in Vienna joyfully announces the official schedule of the 2025 Simbang Gabi celebrations. This cherished Filipino Advent tradition continues to unite communities across the world. Beginning December 15, 2025, two daily Masses will be held to accommodate the growing Filipino community in the city: Simbang Gabi, a nine‑day novena of dawn or evening Masses leading up to Christmas, holds a profound place in the hearts of Filipinos. Rooted in centuries‑old devotion, it symbolizes anticipation, gratitude, and hope as the faithful prepare spiritually for…

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Family and Traditions: How Austria Celebrates Christmas

For most people in Austria, Christmas is all about family. A new survey shows that three out of four Austrians see the holiday primarily as a family celebration. Interestingly, it is the younger generation that holds on to rituals most strongly, while older adults are increasingly letting go of traditional customs. Christmas as a Family Affair According to a recent ImmoScout24 survey, 76 percent of respondents plan to celebrate Christmas with their families. Only a small minority spend the evening with friends or on their own. Two-thirds (66 percent) celebrate…

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How many Christmas cookies can you eat per day?

They’re back! They’re smiling at us from every reception desk, every conference table, and every coffee break: those little Christmas cookies. They taste delicious, seem harmless—and sooner or later lead to love handles if you overdo it. So: How many Christmas cookies can you eat per day without gaining weight during the holiday season? The short answer: it depends largely on the rest of your diet. If you eat a balanced diet and exercise, you don’t need to feel guilty – but there are clear guidelines to follow. Cookies are…

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Himig ng Pagkakaisa Music Festival 2025 Unites Filipino Choirs in Hamburg

HAMBURG, Germany — December 7, 2027. The spirit of unity and cultural pride filled the historic Kleiner Michel Church as the Himig ng Pagkakaisa Music Festival 2025 brought together Filipino choirs and artists from across Europe for an afternoon of worship, music, and community. The event opened with the celebration of the Holy Mass at 14:30h, setting a reverent and joyful tone for the festival. Immediately after, the church transformed into a vibrant concert venue showcasing the rich musical heritage of the Filipino community. Among the featured performers were Produced…

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How to tell if you have coronavirus, flu, or a cold

Rhinoviruses cause the typical flu-like infection, usually harmless, insidious, and significantly milder than the real flu. Typical symptoms include a runny nose, cough, sore throat, sneezing, and in some cases a slight fever, fatigue, or headache and aching limbs. The cold usually subsides after one to two weeks, but the cough may linger longer. SARS-CoV-2 – a wide range of symptoms COVID-19 manifests itself in many different ways: from headaches, sore throats, fatigue, coughing, and fever to gastrointestinal problems and night sweats. Skin rashes or irritation in the mouth are…

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