Paris, France
Thousands participated in rallies against anti-Semitism in Paris. The rallies were organized by major political parties and French Jewish organizations. They were prompted as a result of an increase in anti-Semitic incidents in the country, which the Interior Ministry reported to have raised by 74 percent in 2018. An estimated 2,000 people participated.
Original story by Adam Nossiter, Feb. 19, 2019. The New York Times.
Japan
Japan is facing its worst measles outbreak in years. As of Feb. 10, 167 measles cases had been reported. The cases have been reported in 20 of the 47 prefectures in Japan, with the most significant outbreaks in the Mie and Osaka prefectures. Almost all of the 49 affected in Mie could be connected to a religious group that promotes alternative healing. This is the fastest Japan has reached that number of cases early in the year since 2008.
Original article by Austin Ramzy and Hisako Ueno, Feb. 22, 2019. The New York Times.
New Delhi, India
Homemade alcohol poisoned and killed at least 95 people in northeastern India. Many others who consumed the liquor suffered intense stomach pain, vomiting and vision loss. It is possible the liquor was contaminated with methyl alcohol, which is toxic, and the liquor is believed to have come from multiple suppliers. In India, hundreds die every year from consuming illegally made homemade alcohol.
Original story by Kai Schultz and Hari Kumar, Feb. 23, 2019. The New York Times.