prevent

If the question is how to prevent electric car loaders from collapse in summer, China has an idea: rolling plugs

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The end of March 2024. Spain returns from Holy Week, one of the most mobility festivities in the country, and the images begin to run through mobile phones: Collapsed Tesla chargers. They are not many but enough for their users to have to wait for hours to fill their batteries. The images leave us two readings. The first is what We explain in Xatakathe images are without any doubt the reflection of the lack of confidence in other service stations other than Tesla. The second reading is more worrying for those who want to jump into an electric car: in Spain around 5% of electric cars were being purchased in 2024. And, despite everything, the service stations (no matter how much they were) They collapsed. It is logical that the agnostics of the electric car and also those who value make the leap in their next purchase ask themselves: what happens in a country like China? Over there, In 2024 11 million cars were sold completely electric. The figures are so overwhelming that, without a doubt, it is a challenge for load infrastructure when vacations arrive. But also a mirror where to look at the future. Its solution this year has been to put rolling points. Wheels plugs The first days of May, China celebrates as a good part of the world worker. However, over the years, the Chinese government has been expanding this holiday that now occupies the first five days of the month and, therefore, has become one of the most important rest periods in the country and one of the great moments to travel. As It happens in Spain during Holy Weekin China the feast of the first days of the year accumulates congestion and long jams On the road. With the largest electric car park in the world, this can be a problem on roads such as the one that unites Beijing and Shanghai, separated by more than 1,300 kilometers. One of the usual fears before the electric car is that if we do not manage to reduce the load times, little by little the service stations will be saturated and the 20-30 minutes of recharge can be transformed in hours as a result of a sustained jam to be able to operate in the plugs. To avoid this, this year a first test has been launched with what has been described as “plug -in aircraft carriers.” That is, trucks with huge batteries already loaded that serve as plugs to several vehicles at the same time. In the Chinese media They explain that they can serve a total of eight cars at the same time and even nurture a maximum of 100 cars per truck. The system has allowed multiplying the options that drivers had available during the Chinese New Year. They estimate that the available plugs grew by 80% on the highway between Beijing and Shanghai and that for this 238 auxiliary trucks were deployed in the 49 most busy service areas. In addition, another 246 temporary load stations were built to relieve the demand for electricity. The system was managed by the provincial Jiangsu Department of Transportation and the company Jiangsu Dlala New Energy Technology Co. Click on the image to go to the original tweet Once the truck empties all its batteries, it moves to a station where Recover energy through solar panels and load the batteries again. With yours already loaded it can move where more demand for electricity is required. In total, each truck has 3,600 kWh of energy. That is, with the calculations above, each car can load a maximum of 36 kWh of electricity. That, in an electric car with a road consumption of 20 kWh/100 km is about 180 kilometers of autonomy. Despite this, we must understand that in China the extended range. Cars that, In the background, they are plug -in hybrids and whose batteries move in that range of about 40 kWh capacity, so they could not fill the batteries more. The use of these rolling plugs is not new in China but they are generally used to get hurry to those who have not been able to reach a load point and have run out of electricity before or as auxiliary but very punctual support when a station has been filled. The power of these loaders mounted on trucks is, however, 20 times greater than the Rolling plugs of brands like Wulingdesigned for an emergency. That of this brand, for example, has a battery inside that allows you to contribute up to 141 kWh of electricity. This means that it can fill between 1.5 and 3 electric cars batteries, depending on their size. Catl is also investing In the development of this systems although, again, these are auxiliary and smaller services. Photo | Byd and @drivegreen80167 In Xataka | If the question is how we are going to load thousands of electric cars on the street, Portugal believes to have the answer: street lamps

LaLiga has in her hand to prevent people from stopping seeing illegal IPTV. You just have to imitate Netflix

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The nightmare of IPS blocks by LaLiga continues. Not only that: it seems to increase. Soccer is becoming a problem For Internet users in our country, and are (we are) paying fair for sinners. Why is this happening? This is what we try to find out analyzing one of the potential root problems – the cost of seeing football – and stating those prices with what has happened on other streaming platforms. Why what works for Netflix or Spotify does not do so for football? Let’s see it. How much does football cost in Spain and Europe Today in Spain football fans depend on telephone operators to enjoy these broadcasts. If the objective is to be able to access all the First Division Soccer matches of LaLiga and those of competitions such as the Champions League, The options are two: Movistar+ and Orange. They told it a few months ago Our mobile Xataka companionswhich explained what were the disputes available plans, in which fiber, mobile and television are always combined in different versions. In those two cases Prices start from 115 euros per month of Movistar or the 80.95 euros per month of Orange (although without mobile data). O2 and Jazztel also offer some games, but much more limited: each day we have access to a LaLiga EA Sports (First Division) match, a Champions League match (if celebrated day) and three games of LaLiga Hypermotion (Second Division). That exclusivity of Movistar and Orange, however, They could change: Yoigo and Masmoble plan a television service with Orange TV infrastructure and in which 90 channels and all football will be included. At the moment there are no prices or defined availability date for this project. And in Europe? Other European countries have different costs, but it is important here to emphasize that the prices we will talk about are access to football without further ad I would go apart. Thus, we have: France: Dazn has a package to see all the link 1 for 35 euros per month (25 euros/month if you are under 26 years). Canal+ has a plan that also includes European competitions and costs 29.99 euros per month. Germany: In Dazn Unlimited All Bundesliga and Champions League matches for 34.99 euros per month are available. There are some optional platforms such as Sky with similar prices. Italy: DAZN offers all the A series A for 30 euros per month, while they can see the Champions League, it must be combined with Sky Italy, which has a cost of 25 euros per month. The total cost is therefore 55 euros per month. England: Sky Sports has all the rights to convey the matches, and the package costs about 22 pounds per month (26 euros/month). BT Sport broadcasts the Champions League, and the cost in that case is 25 euros per month, so the combined cost is about 51 euros per month. What is also true is that these amounts and these plans vary constantly and both operators and platforms offer constant promotions in order to capture more users. When Netflix taught us the way There was a time when music downloads or films on P2P networks were especially popular. That was cumbersome and illegal, but there were not many more options either. Or none. This was what was seen in Netflix in 2015, when he arrived in Spain. Everything would change with the arrival of Netflix, Spotify and its competitors, who showed that we could have streaming services of fantastic content, accessible, with a great catalog and with a more than reasonable price. Suddenly I was no longer compensated to be looking for other places: The legal alternative was really remarkable. The subscription model settled and became the norm, and thanks to a good balance, content companies realized something striking: the best way to fight illegal content was to offer a good service at an acceptable price. This principle has been corrupted in recent years: Servcios like Netflix have Uploaded prices Notably, they have stopped allowing Share accounts And they have also put ads, Like all its competitors. Users can protest (we protest), but time has proved those responsible for these services, who have not stopped growing and They are in record figures. How have things come out to Netflix? We can see it in two quite representative graphics of the situation. Since 2012, when the service began to be available in the US (arrived in Spain Something later), Netflix was raising prices more and more frequent. With each climb protests, yes, but … Sooner or later most return. Netflix price evolution in the US. These changes have been analogous in the rest of the world, and Spain is no exception. Source: The Verge. In fact, growth in users is apparently unstoppable in Netflix. The plan with advertisements, which we can criticize so much, It has been a resounding success And today more than half of the new subscribers arrive at the service thanks to this plan. Evolution of Netflix subscribers globally from 2011 to 2024. Source: Business of Apps. At present, the platform has More than 300 million subscriberswhen a decade ago The figure was five times lower (62.71, According to Business of Apps). There have been hardly two semester throughout its history in which there had The shared accounts or the plan with ads. That seems to make it clear that despite everything to millions of users They are still compensated by paying those subscriptions And not to go to illegal content distribution services, so if it works for them, what is happening with football in Spain? The Netflix of Sports Today the standard plan with Netflix ads costs 7 euros per month. Not bad, especially considering what football costs. Even considering the cost of the most affordable plans to see all football in Spain (with many asterisks, about 29 euros in Orange), the price both here and in other countries in Europe seems elevated. Seeing football in Spain costs about 30 euros a month with Orange … Read more

prevent plasma at 150 million ºC to destroy the reactor

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The adjective “titanic” fits as a glove if our intention is to describe the reactor of nuclear fusion experimental ITER (International Thermonuclear Experctor reactor), The machine that an international consortium led by Europe He is building in the French town of Cadarache. This ingenuity is titanic for its dimensions. Also by The size of the challenges that raises. Even for its ambition. Inside His huge vacuum chamber 29 x 29 meters stainless steel, with a weight of 3,850 tons and a volume of 16,000 m³ an extremely powerful magnetic field a gas that is at a temperature of at least 150 million degrees Celsius. It is necessary that this plasma reaches this temperature because in these conditions the deuterium and tritium nuclei that contains acquire the kinetic energy they need to overcome their natural electrical repulsion. Almost without realizing we have repaired in one of the great challenges that the nuclear fusion entails: it is necessary that the plasma reaches that extreme temperature because on the earth we do not have the intense gravitational field that helps the stars to keep on “the nuclear oven”. And less pressure implies more temperature if our purpose is to recreate the necessary conditions so that the fusion reactions between the deuterium and tritium nuclei take place. To monitor the temperature, a lot has needed to develop a lot of technology The most exposed components not only at the extreme temperature of the plasma, but also to the action of high energy neutrons that it is not possible to confine inside the magnetic field are Tungsten shields that cover the inner mantle of the vacuum chamber and the diving. These components must withstand the bombardment of plasma high energy neutrons, transforming their kinetic heat into heat. To release this thermal energy and refrigerate the diving is responsible for the water that circulates inside. The diving is responsible for purifying plasma, allowing the extraction of the ashes and impurities resulting from the nuclear fusion reaction The tungsten has been chosen to put the shields exposed to plasma because this is the metal that has the highest melting point: nothing less than 3,422 degrees Celsius. In addition, the diving is responsible for purifying plasma, allowing The extraction of ashes and impurities resulting from the nuclear fusion reaction and plasma interaction with the most exposed layer of the mantle. In any case during the reactor operation, it is necessary to monitor the temperature that the components most exposed to the plasma action reaches. If the tungsten shields, the diving or any other component of the vacuum chamber exceeds its maximum temperature threshold could be irremediably damaged. And changing one of these pieces in a 23,000 tons machine is not at all pathered bread. Fortunately, engineers who participate in Iter have resolved this challenge. In the cover photography of this article we can see the machine used to carry out the thermal cycles tests to which the prototype of a mirror has been subjected to the National Institute of Aerospace Technique of Spain, which is one of the research institutions that have participated in the project. And is that precisely to measure the temperature of the components most exposed to the plasma, the engineers of Iter will use A great angle vision system which uses several mirrors manufactured with great precision to collect the visible and infrared light from the diversion and the main wall of the camera. This architecture will allow to measure the temperature of all surfaces in real time, so that the reactor operators can identify if a component is overheat and prevent damage in time. This system brings together no less than 15 independent lines of vision that will be housed in four different locations of the vacuum chamber with the purpose of covering 80% of the internal surfaces. Spectacular. Image | Fusion for Energy More information | Fusion for Energy In Xataka | China is unstoppable in nuclear fusion: the construction of its own iter is aimed at beating all records

How to prevent Instagram from using your data to train goal AI

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Let’s explain How to prevent Instagram from using your data To train Goal AIits artificial intelligence assistant. This is that blue circle icon that has appeared and that we cannot remove, and in addition to that the social network will start using your data to improve it. Instagram will use Your publications, your photos, your personal tastes and even your private messages (except if you are under 18) to train your artificial intelligence model. This will be activated by default, but not to inflict the laws, an option is hidden in its configuration to tell you that you do not want you to use your data. Prevents Instagram from using your data to train your AI The first thing you have to do is enter the Instagram configuration by clicking on the three -stripes icon. Once within the menu of Configuration and activitygo down to the whole, and click on the option Information What do you have within the section More information and help. This will take you to the information options screen. In it, click on the option Privacy Policy That you have in second place. This will take you to a screen where many things about privacy on Instagram will be explained. In it, click on the link Oppose you which will appear highlighted within the text. This will take you to a page where you have an explanation of the information used to train ai ai. Here, Below you have a form With a writing field where you have to follow the steps to indicate how data processing affects you and why you do not want to allow them to be used. There is a good alternativeand that is that the Citizen8 group has created this website. In it, you have two links to which An email and its text are generated To ask Facebook or Instagram not to collect your data. You just have to make sure to send it with the email account with which you have the record with them and voila. In Xataka Basics | Artificial Intelligence Guide: Main characteristics of the main models of AI, points for and against, and comparative

How it works and how to prevent them from doing with yours

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We are going to explain a type of fraud that has been growing more than a year, and that is being used to steal your Google accountand with it both access to Gmail and your photos or other services. It is a hoax that mixes both artificial intelligence and classic phishing, and that should be known. We are going to start the article explaining how this deception works, so you know how to recognize the way you proceed and you can upload your guard if you recognize that behavior. And then we will end up with several tips to avoid it that you should always keep in mind. How this deception works To perform this deception, cybercounts use artificial intelligence systems to make phone calls. With the AI, it seems that on the other side a real person is talking, and in this call you are told that your Gmail account has been compromised. They also tell you that they will help you. So, in the next step you are sent An email that seems to come from Google. In this email there are seemingly reliable links that take you to fraudulent pages. The idea is that you press in these links thinking that you are going to configure the safety of your account or change the password. But what you really do is Give your Google data so that the cybercriminals are left, and can access your account. How to avoid this scam To avoid these types of scams, the first thing you should keep in mind is that Google won’t call you to let you know. Simply, this company will never tell you if your email has been compromised, nor will they send you a chat to tell you. As for the emails that can reach you, Look well in the direction of the sender. Even in cases where he comes from Google as the person’s name, look at the address of the mail from which he writes to detect if they are accounts that have nothing to do with Google. Always be careful with the web pages That they arrive by mail or by message to perform procedures that include writing your account. For that, the mouse passes over a link so that the real direction to which it goes, and detect when it is an address that has nothing to do with it. In both emails and addresses, it verifies that the URL ends at Google.com or Gmail.com. Be careful if only the company’s name appears in the middle From the address, or if after the first point of the URL another word appears before the .com. Finally, in the case of having doubts Manually enter the official pages of Google or Gmail without clicking on any link, and simply change the password of your account manually. In Xataka Basics | The best pages and online tools to detect leaks and prevent your accounts from hacking

Apple has been making the bulk of the iPhone in China for years. Now wants to leave … and China prevent it

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Apple is accelerating its diversification plan for the production of the iPhone outside of China … with India as the main alternative destination. Is A story that comes from afar But now steal the accelerator. As revealed Financial Times In an extensive profile about this movement, Apple is running this movement with extreme caution so as not to antagonize Beijing, who sees with suspicion how he could lose his dominant position in the global supply chain. Why is it important. This manufacturing migration can end up being one of the biggest changes in the world economy in decades. China has been the factory in the world for two decades and Apple’s main industrial partner, but the cook company needs to minimize its risks to an increasingly tense and complex geopolitics. In addition to China, it no longer has such a cheap labor that it had a decade ago: its salaries have grown to the beat of its economy. In Xataka More and more Apple suppliers move from China to Vietnam. The problem is that there are not enough workers In figures: The Indian production of the iPhone already represents 15% of the global total. It is expected to reach 25% in 2027. Only the Chinese province of Henan exports between 50 and 60 million smartphones A year, equivalent to all the annual demand of the iPhone in its largest market, United States. The backdrop. This Apple strategy, known as “China Plus One“, the reasons began to take shape: Commercial tensions with the US during Trump’s first legislature. Logistics problems during pandemia, which They cost Apple 8,000 million in income. Chinese restrictions on the use of Apple devices by its officials. The new tariff threats after the start of Trump’s second legislature. Between the lines. Beijing is actively hindering this exodus hindering the movement of Chinese technicians towards India. It is also restricting the export of critical equipment, blocking the entry of Chinese manufacturers in India and imposing regulatory obstacles to Apple services as Apple Intelligence. India, meanwhile, is taking advantage of the opportunity: Has allocated 6,000 million dollars To encourage smartphones production. Tata, the largest Indian conglomerate, is positioning itself as Apple key partner. Tamil Nadu and Karnataka They compete for attracting investments. The iPhone 16 They are already manufactured in India. For the country it is a great milestone. In summary. Apple needs to balance this transition very delicately. China remains vital for its supply chain, but a company like Apple cannot afford to depend on a single country in an increasingly volatile geopolitical context. Outstanding image | Xataka with Midjourney In Xataka | The mobile market in China has changed radically. Apple loses ground while I live and (especially) Huawei grow like foam

Spirit Airlines will prevent passengers with bare feet, scantily clad clothing or offensive tattoos from accessing their planes

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New York – The American low-cost airline Spirit Airlines, which filed for bankruptcy last Novemberis generating headlines now with his new rules on tattoos and clothing on board that can ground more than one passenger. The new “code” prohibits barefoot passengers from traveling on Spirit Airlines planesthose who wear clothing that reveals too much, exposes private parts or display tattoos that are offensive, lewd or obsceneaccording to the media that have reported the news, such as CNN or the KSAT channel. Those who do not wear shoes or wear “inappropriate clothing” will not be able to set foot on the plane.the media say. These measures are part of the new rules for passengers, which They not only cover how the traveler is dressed but also what they have drunk before boarding. (alcohol or drugs), if he suffers from a contagious disease or if his behavior is violent or disorderly and interferes with the work of the crew. In this regard, it establishes that the passenger must be willing or able to sit in a seat and with the seat belt on during the flight. The media remember that months before the update of these regulations Spirit Airlines had prevented two young passengers from taking a flight who were wearing shirts with their midriffs exposed. and a young man wearing a hoodie with a printed legend containing a curse word. In the middle of this month the company based in Dania Beach (Florida) announced the elimination of about 200 positions working in various departments with the aim of reducing expenses after declaring bankruptcy last November. In an attempt to cut costs, the airline had previously laid off hundreds of pilots and had also offered licenses to stewards and flight attendants, in addition to reducing its network and reaching agreements to sell part of its fleet of Airbus aircraft to raise funds. Spirit Airlines is in financial crisis since Jetblue broke a purchase agreement for $6.6 billion dollars; previously, he US Department of Justice had opposed the purchase agreement for violating antitrust laws. Keep reading: Grandmother of 6-year-old Hispanic boy who Spirit placed on wrong plane says she is disappointed with handling of case Spirit Airlines staff at LAX airport deny flight access to Puerto Rican family because the child did not have a passport

The vitamin that can help prevent cataracts and glaucoma

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Wearing sunglasses when we leave the house or avoiding exposing ourselves to long periods of time in front of screens with a high luminosity index can be “good” strategies to take care of our health. eye health. However, and despite the benefits that these actions provide us, there is an element, as simple as it is complex, that can help us protect our eyes and strengthen them at the same time without making greater effort: lutein. This component, belonging to the family of carotenoidsplays an important role in our body due to its properties antioxidants that help us prevent diseases, delay aging and improve the immune system. Lutein is capable of reducing the appearance of glaucoma.Credit: Michael Morse | Pexels In addition to all of the above, and to the surprise of many, the lutein It also has important advantages for eye health that can help us, among many other things, to strengthen eye tissues from light damage. But what other benefits have this item in your eyes and how can we get it? The benefits of lutein in the eyes According to the specialized site Tua Saúdethe lutein It works as a kind of light filter that helps protect the eyes from the ocular tissues. In addition to the above, this vitamin It also has the ability to improve the eye health of those people who do not have good night vision, also called night blindnessor that they see in low light. Likewise, and as revealed by the same site, the lutein It is capable of reducing the appearance of glaucoma, one of the most common diseases among the population and which appears due to eye pressure due to a failure in the eye drainage system. Similar to the above, and thanks to the large amount of antioxidants it contains, this element has the ability to prevent the formation of cataracts because it absorbs UV light. The difference between retinal age and biological age implies a higher risk of death.Credit: Unsplash Separated from eye health, lutein also has benefits in other aspects of the body such as skin health, improved memory and cognitive processes, as well as prevent various types of cancer because it prevents the damage caused by free radicals to cells. Regarding the recommended dose, experts point out that it should be between 10 mg to 20 mg. However, and in order to avoid complications, it is best to ingest this element under the supervision of a doctor who prescribes the correct amount. Continue reading: Fennel Tea: natural ally to combat bloating and improve digestion The fruit you should eat before sleeping to rest better 4 food and alcohol combinations to avoid

Tips to protect yourself from smoke and prevent damage during the Los Angeles fires

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Wildfires in Los Angeles have caused a worrying cloud of smoke that affects air quality in much of Southern California. The density of the smoke not only causes discomfort, but also serious health risks for millions of residents. Next, We explain the dangers of forest fire smoke and the measures you can take to minimize its effects. Why is wildfire smoke so dangerous? Smoke generated by forest fires contains a mixture of toxic gases and tiny particles, known as PM2.5, that represent a serious risk to human health. These particles are so small that They can penetrate deep into the lungs and even reach the bloodstream, causing systemic damage. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), prolonged exposure to these particles can: * Aggravate respiratory diseasessuch as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). * Increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. * Contribute to premature deaths. Besides, urban fires, where synthetic materials are also burned, release chemicals, such as cyanide and carbon dioxide, which aggravate pollution. There are people who are more vulnerable to suffering from health-related conditions due to the smoke and poor air quality caused by the fires in Los Angeles. (Photo: Chris Pizzello/AP) Who are the most affected? Although smoke affects the entire population, certain groups are particularly vulnerable: 1) Children: Their lungs are fully developing and their faster breathing rate exposes them to absorbing more pollutants. This can cause inflammation, coughing, and worsening of conditions such as asthma. According to Dr. Lisa Patel, a professor at Stanford Children’s Health, wildfire smoke is up to 10 times more toxic to children than other sources of pollution. 2) Seniors: The immune system of the elderly is less efficient, making them more prone to respiratory and cardiovascular complications caused by smoke exposure. 3) People with pre-existing conditions: Individuals with asthma, COPD, heart disease or diabetes face a higher risk of serious complications. Fine particles can worsen your conditions and increase the risk of hospitalizations. 4) Pregnant women: Exposure to smoke can cross the placenta and affect the developing fetus, increasing the risk of premature birth, low birth weight and maternal complications such as hypertension and preeclampsia. How does it affect air quality in Southern California? More than 17 million people in Southern California are under alert due to wildfire smoke. In some areas near the fires, the air quality index (AQI) has exceeded 170 points, considered dangerous for the health of the general population. Even tens of kilometers away, in places like Long Beach or Rancho Palos Verdes, The AQI has reached unhealthy levels for sensitive groups. Strong winds also contribute to transporting smoke to more distant areas, amplifying the impact. Certain precautions must be taken in the presence of smoke in almost the entire city. (Photo: Chris Pizzello/AP) How to protect yourself from forest fire smoke? To minimize the risks of smoke, follow these recommendations: 1) Stay indoors * Close doors and windows to prevent smoke from entering. * Use air conditioning systems or air purifiers with HEPA filters. These devices are effective at reducing particles in indoor air. * Create a safe room in your home with an air purifier, especially if there are children, the elderly or people with respiratory conditions. 2) Avoid activities that pollute indoor air *Do not use candles, incense or gas stoves. *Do not vacuum, as this can raise dust and fine particles. 3) Wear masks when going out * Opt for N95 or P-100 masks, that filter fine particles. Surgical or cloth masks are not effective against PM2.5. 4) Protect children * Keep the children inside the house as much as possible. * Children over 2 years old they must wear a tight-fitting mask if they have to go out. 5) Handle ashes safely *Wear protective clothing, Gloves and glasses when cleaning ashes. * Moisten ashes before sweeping to prevent them from dispersing into the air. * Discard the ashes in sealed plastic bags. 6) Monitor air quality * Consult interactive maps and air quality alerts, such as those from the AQMD, to find out the conditions in your area. * Download apps or sign up to receive notifications. 7) Plan for future emergencies * Stock up on masks and air filters. * Have an emergency kit with essential medications and drinking water. * Make sure you have fire extinguishers and know how to use them. What to do if you can’t avoid smoke? If, despite your efforts, symptoms such as eye irritation, difficulty breathing, or persistent cough continue, Consider finding temporary shelter where the air quality is better. Many communities offer public spaces with filtered air, such as libraries or community centers. Keep reading: * Fires in Los Angeles: Can sea water be used to fight fire?* Fires in Los Angeles: 3 reasons why they could not be put out* “Firenado”: ​​The shocking fire tornado that formed in one of the fires in Los Angeles

Tips to prevent norovirus on your next cruise trip

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2024 marked a negative record for the cruise industry in the United States, with the highest number of gastrointestinal illness outbreaks in more than a decade. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report, 16 outbreaks of infections were recorded on board, of which 13 were attributed to norovirusknown as “the cruise ship virus.” This significant increase raises serious concerns about health safety on these vessels, especially following the recovery of the sector after the Covid-19 pandemic. The impact of norovirus on cruise ships Norovirus, which causes gastroenteritis, is extremely contagious and often spreads in closed environments with high density of people, such as cruise ships. In 2024, this virus was responsible for more than 90% of the gastrointestinal outbreaks reported on these vessels. Dr. William Schaffner, a professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, explained that norovirus can infect with a very small viral dose and survive for days on contaminated surfaces. This facilitates its spread in shared spaces such as dining rooms and cabins. According to the CDC, cruise ships also face the challenge of repeated outbreaks, which They can occur due to persistent environmental contamination or infected personnel. 2024 recorded a total of 16 outbreaks, exceeding the 14 reported in 2023 and the 10 in 2019, the last full year before the pandemic. During the period 2020-2022, cases decreased due to the temporary suspension of cruise ships. Norovirus is also known as the “cruise ship virus.” (Photo: Shutterstock) Among the most notable outbreaks of 2024 are: * Salmonella: On Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas, reported in September.* E.coli: On Silversea Cruises’ Silver Nova, which occurred between March and April.*Unknown cause: On Allure of the Seas, also from Royal Caribbean. For an event to be classified as an outbreak, at least 3% of passengers or crew must report symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea, according to the CDC Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP). Why are cruise ships vulnerable to these outbreaks? Cruise ships are a unique environment where infectious diseases find favorable conditions to spread: * Closed and shared spaces: Passengers and crew live in high-density areas, such as cabins, dining rooms and entertainment areas.* Fast rotation: Ships have little time to disinfect between the departure of one group of passengers and the arrival of another.* Multiple origin of the virus: Norovirus can come on board through contaminated food, water, or infected passengers on the ground. Additionally, norovirus tends to be more prevalent during the winter months, as shown by CDC data: Of the 16 outbreaks in 2024, eight occurred between December and February. The impact on the cruise industry The cruise industry, already hit by pandemic restrictions, faces a new challenge to maintain public trust. Although the CDC emphasizes that only 100% of norovirus outbreaks in the US occur on cruise ships, recent incidents could affect travelers’ perceptions of the safety of these voyages. A CDC spokesperson stressed that it is still uncertain whether the increase in outbreaks in 2023 and 2024 represents a sustained trend. However, the data highlight the need to implement stricter prevention and control measures. There are many factors that make it easy to contract norovirus on a cruise ship. (Photo: Shutterstock) How to protect yourself against illnesses on board a cruise The CDC recommends taking preventative measures before and during travel to reduce the risk of contracting diseases such as norovirus. These are some of the top suggestions: Before traveling: Consult your doctor if you have symptoms or questions about your health.Ask the cruise line about alternative options if you are sick. During the trip: Wash your hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom and before eating.Avoid touching shared surfaces and use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.If you feel unwell, inform the ship’s medical center immediately and follow the staff’s recommendations. General measures: Stay hydrated to prevent dehydration if you develop symptoms.If you spot someone sick near you, avoid contact and notify staff.These practices not only help prevent norovirus, but also other common infections on cruise ships. What to expect in the future? The increase in outbreaks over the past two years raises important questions about health and safety practices in the cruise industry. While these incidents represent a small percentage compared to the total outbreaks in the country, companies will need to redouble their efforts to ensure a safer environment. This includes implementing more rigorous cleaning protocols, educating crew and passengers, and improving rapid response strategies for outbreaks. With the start of 2025, the challenge will be to demonstrate that the industry is prepared to face these situations and regain the trust of travelers, who seek to enjoy safe vacations free of health concerns. Keep reading: * Why children are more vulnerable to norovirus* Norovirus outbreaks on the rise in the US: What’s happening and how to protect yourself?

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