Global leaders are gearing up to retaliate against U.S. trade tariffs, calling them unilateral bullying that disrupts global trade. As markets tremble, Trump maintains confidence in America's strength. Meanwhile, a remarkable study links shingles vaccination to a reduced risk of dementia. The discussion also touches on serious humanitarian challenges following a devastating earthquake in Myanmar, and Hungary's controversial exit from the International Criminal Court highlights ethical debates surrounding assisted dying.
Trump's tariffs are provoking strong global backlash, particularly from China and the EU, potentially reshaping international trade dynamics.
A recent study indicates that the shingles vaccine may reduce dementia risk by 20%, highlighting critical public health implications beyond infectious diseases.
Deep dives
Global Trade Impact of Tariffs
The new tariffs imposed by the U.S. under President Trump have significant repercussions for global trade, affecting countries across continents. Notably, China faces a staggering 34% tariff, building on previous measures, leading to strong condemnation and threats of retaliation from the Chinese government. Other countries like Myanmar and Laos suffer severely high tariffs of 44% and 48%, respectively, impacting their fragile economies that are already dealing with humanitarian crises. This shift in economic policy is expected to alter trade patterns and potentially harm employment in industries reliant on exports to the U.S.
European Union's Reaction
The European Union has recognized the tariffs as a considerable blow to its economy, with President Ursula von der Leyen warning of retaliation if negotiations fail. Germany, in particular, may see a significant drop in exports to the U.S. due to potential levies, with forecasts suggesting a 15% decrease could result from a flat 20% tariff. Business leaders express anxiety over the impact on their industries, especially for high-value sectors like pharmaceuticals and automobiles, as they navigate the challenges of escalating tariffs. The EU's response may involve negotiating trade deals to enhance imports from the U.S., but preparations for counter-tariffs are also underway.
Health Insights from Shingles Vaccination
Recent research has identified a link between shingles vaccination and a reduced risk of dementia, highlighting the broader health impacts of vaccination beyond infectious diseases. The study showed that older adults who received the shingles vaccine, Zostavax, were 20% less likely to develop dementia within a seven-year follow-up period. This finding is significant given the global prevalence of dementia, affecting over 55 million people, and suggests that improving vaccination rates could have extensive public health benefits. While the exact mechanism is still under investigation, it is believed that the vaccine may help reduce inflammation or enhance immune responses linked to brain health.
Global leaders warn they will hit back at trade tariffs on US imports. As markets tumble, Donald Trump insists the US will emerge stronger. Also: study suggests shingles vaccine could reduce risk of dementia.
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