EU Drug Report: The European Drug Report 2026 warns drugs are becoming more potent and widely available, with opioids still driving most overdose deaths in the EU (at least 7,600 in 2024, often involving multiple substances). Harm Reduction: EU officials stress harm reduction and enforcement together, noting sterile injecting equipment is still inadequate in several countries, including Lithuania. Overdose Link in Cyprus: Cyprus data show cocaine involved in the majority of overdose deaths in 2024, while HIV diagnoses linked to injecting drug use remain higher than UNAIDS targets. Food Safety Alert: A Europe-wide salmonella outbreak tied to chicken-flavoured instant noodles has reached at least 83 confirmed cases (including Lithuania), with children and young adults most affected and some hospitalisations reported. Public Health Policy: New Zealand health groups back WHO calls to remove sweet, fruity nicotine vape flavours, warning they make nicotine more appealing to young people; Lithuania is cited among countries already restricting flavours. Local Health Infrastructure: A new wellness care hospital opens in Vilnius with an innovative spa-and-hospital concept. Lithuanian Biotech Investment: Northway Biotech invests €61m in a Vilnius cell therapy manufacturing center. Vaping Regulation: WHO flavour ban push gains support as Lithuania is mentioned in the wider EU trend toward restrictions. Belarus Prisoners: A US-linked delay in releasing more Belarus political prisoners is said to be harming vulnerable detainees’ health.