Fox News AI Newsletter: Medical advice from a chatbot?

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October 30, 2024

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Welcome to Fox News’ Artificial Intelligence newsletter with the latest AI technology advancements.

IN TODAY’S NEWSLETTER:

– Elon Musk wants people to submit their medical scans to Grok, his AI chatbot

– Would you buy art from the world’s first humanoid robot artist?

– Robert Downey Jr. won’t let AI recreate his likeness in Hollywood

Hundred dollar bills with the words “Job Hunting.” (Getty Images)

‘FUTURE OF MEDICINE’: Elon Musk is urging people to submit their medical scans to Grok for analysis, but doctors advise using caution when relying on artificial intelligence for health care insights.

AI ART FOR SALE: Ai-Da, the world’s first ultra-realistic robot artist, has produced a striking portrait of computing pioneer Alan Turing that will go under the hammer this month.

Robert Downey Jr. at Comic Con in 2012 wearing an Iron Man hand

Actor Robert Downey Jr. arrives at the “Iron Man 3” panel with Marvel Studios during Comic-Con International 2012 at San Diego Convention Center on July 14, 2012, in San Diego, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/WireImage)

IRON MAN’S FIGHT: Robert Downey Jr. might be devoid of iron, but he’s sure got some steel. The Academy Award-winning actor, 59, is speaking out about rapid technological advancements and how he plans to fight back if his name and likeness are manipulated by artificial intelligence.

DR CHATBOT?: ServeTheHome chief analyst Patrick Kennedy has the latest on the xAI Colossus Data Center on ‘The Claman Countdown.’

A visitor watches an AI (Artificial Intelligence) sign on an animated screen at the Mobile World Congress (MWC), the telecom industry’s biggest annual gathering, in Barcelona. (JOSEP LAGO/AFP via Getty Images)

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US to expect 90 million visitors by 2026 with record-breaking visas approved

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October 30, 2024

FLORIDA’S GLOWING WATERS AMONG THE NATURAL WONDERS INSPIRING TRAVELERS IN YEAR AHEAD

The United States will see 90 million visitors by 2026, according to State Department Secretary Antony Blinken along with Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.

The announcement comes as a record-breaking 8.5 million visitors’ visas were issued out of a total of 11.5 million visas in FY 2024.

The State Department announced visa wait times are down by nearly 60%.

A State Department spokesperson told Fox News Digital via email, “More people can travel to the United States today than ever before, and we are committed to maintaining this positive trend.”

The news comes as preparations are underway for the 2026 FIFA World Cup along with the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, California — welcoming sporting fans from all over the globe.

The U.S. expects to greet 90 million visitors by 2026 as a record-breaking 11.5 million visas have been issued in fiscal year 2024. (iStock)

“We’re doing everything we can to ramp up our capacity to make sure that everyone who’s coming to this country for these incredible events, as well as for so much else, get their visas in a timely way and a smooth way,” said Secretary Blinken at a press conference on Tuesday.

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Secretary Raimondo said at the conference the departments are projecting the travel industry will be fully recovered from the COVID pandemic’s impacts by next year.

The travel and tourism industry today brings in $2.3 trillion in economic activity, the Department of Commerce says. (iStock)

“Travel and tourism isn’t just fun and isn’t just meaningful, as you said; it’s real business. It is real economic activity, sustaining millions of good paying jobs in this country,” said Raimondo.

Travel and tourism today supports nearly 10 million American jobs, bringing in $2.3 trillion in economic activity, according to the Department of Commerce.

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“Demand for a U.S. visa is at an all-time high. To meet the demands for visa services from our expected visitors, we are continually exploring new innovations and assessing further opportunities to streamline operations,” said a State Department spokesperson.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Department of Commerce for additional comment.

“AAM’s Future Hinges on Transformation, Innovation and Talent Development”, says Leading Aviation Expert – Shantanu Mishra

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October 30, 2024

20241030 102524426 — “AAM’s Future Hinges on Transformation, Innovation and Talent Development", says Leading Aviation Expert - Shantanu Mishra 11

In a rapidly evolving aviation landscape, Shantanu Mishra has emerged as a thought leader, playing a pivotal role in driving Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) forward through his strategic systems engineering and integration expertise.

Berlin, Germany, October 29, 2024, Shantanu Mishra has been recently recognized for his significant contribution on workforce development for the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) industry. His progressive efforts in transforming vocational education are propelling the industry towards a future of sustainable and safe air transportation. With his extensive experience and valuable insights, Mishra has established himself as an internationally recognized professional and a thought leader in this space. He also shares his views as a guest writer for a leading MRO magazine, discussing latest trends and technologies shaping the aviation landscape.

In his role as a Powerplant Systems Engineer and Integrator at a leading aerospace OEM, Mishra has been instrumental in spearheading key initiatives that tackle critical barriers to new product introduction, certification, and workforce readiness for the AAM. He has led the efforts on defining regulatory requirements for development and certification of hydrogen-powered hybrid propulsion for commuter platforms, drawing on best practices from space and process industries on gaseous/liquid hydrogen fuel handling. With over a decade of leadership experience in propulsion systems development across Civil aviation, Business aviation and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sectors, Mishra brings unparalleled expertise to the forefront of aerospace innovation. His career encompasses a range of roles and responsibilities within Systems Engineering, Design & Integration, Engine Installations, Engine Build, Experimental Design, and Electric Propulsion R&D.

“Rising complexity in aerospace systems demands advanced engineering tools and methods for delivering rigorous safety and performance standards,” says Mishra. “With introduction of new technologies, processes and materials, the importance of formal and proven methodologies is becoming increasingly important for aerospace products. In approaching complex systems challenges, tailored PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) processes and Model-Based Development strategies can help teams become agile and improve productivity. When applied correctly and consciously, these principles can help organizations effectively manage systems integration across various engineering domains,” he explains

As an advocate of systems thinking his approach has been instrumental in solving some of AAM’s most pressing challenges, particularly those related to workforce training and technical standards development. “AAM’s success relies not only on our ability to design, test, produce and integrate complex systems, but also build an ecosystem of skilled professionals to support its operation,” says Mishra.

His commitment to advancing AAM extends beyond technology, as he actively supports initiatives that focus on introducing new curriculum and training standards for the European MRO (Maintenance Repair & Overhaul) labor market. Through these initiatives, organizations can nurture a new generation of skilled MRO professionals qualified to meet AAM’s technical demands while bridging the gap between technology readiness and operational preparedness.

With a Masters in Aeronautics (specializing in Unmanned Aerospace Systems) and a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering, Mishra has leveraged his solid technical foundation in leading a successful engineering leadership career. His passionate support for AAM reflects his commitment to building a sustainable future for the aviation industry.

Media Contact:

Karan S Nair
Attn: Media Relations
Orlando, FL
idaertech@gmail.com

20241030 102724733 — “AAM’s Future Hinges on Transformation, Innovation and Talent Development", says Leading Aviation Expert - Shantanu Mishra 12

Massive data breach exposes 800,000 insurance customers’ personal information

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October 30, 2024

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Over the past few months, we’ve seen a wave of data breaches affecting millions of people, from health care giants to government contractors and more. This latest incident is yet another in a long line of alarming breaches. Now, the insurance administrative services company Landmark Admin has warned that a data breach from a May cyberattack impacted over 800,000 individuals.

Landmark Admin has partnered with some of the largest insurance carriers in the U.S., including American Monumental Life Insurance Company, Pellerin Life Insurance Company and American Benefit Life Insurance Company.

Through these partnerships, millions of policyholders and their sensitive information, such as names, Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers and passport numbers, could be at risk of exposure, further amplifying the potential impact of this breach.

A woman working on her laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What you need to know

In a report to the Maine attorney general’s office, Landmark revealed it spotted unusual activity in its systems May 13, 2024, prompting it to disconnect affected systems and block remote access to its network (via Bleeping Computer).

Landmark brought in a specialized third-party cybersecurity team to help secure its systems and run a thorough investigation to understand the extent of the breach. But while they were looking into it, the hackers managed to break back into Landmark’s system June 17, 2024.

The cybersecurity team’s findings showed data was both encrypted and stolen from Landmark’s systems. According to the investigation, hackers may have gained unauthorized access to the personal details of impacted individuals, which could include full name, address, Social Security number, tax ID, driver’s license or state-issued ID number, passport number, bank details, medical info, health insurance policy number, date of birth and details about life and annuity policies.

Illustration of a hacker at work (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MASSIVE DATA BREACH EXPOSES 3 MILLION AMERICANS’ PERSONAL INFORMATION TO CYBERCRIMINALS

What is Landmark doing after data breach?

Landmark is offering free identity theft protection services for those affected by the data breach. It’s also notifying everyone whose personal information may have been in its systems during the breach. Individual notices will be sent by U.S. first-class mail, going out in batches as they identify potentially affected individuals. The first wave of letters was sent Oct. 23, 2024.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE U.S. NEWS

Illustration of a hacker at work (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

WORLD’S LARGEST STOLEN PASSWORD DATABASE UPLOADED TO CRIMINAL FORUM

9 ways to protect yourself from data breaches

1. Enable two-factor authentication: Activate two-factor authentication (2FA) for an extra layer of security on all your important accounts, including email, banking and social media. Two-factor authentication requires you to provide a second piece of information, such as a code sent to your phone, in addition to your password when logging in. This makes it significantly harder for hackers to access your accounts, even if they have your password. Enabling 2FA can greatly reduce the risk of unauthorized access and protect your sensitive data.

2. Monitor your accounts and transactions: You should check your online accounts and transactions regularly for any suspicious or unauthorized activity. If you notice anything unusual, immediately report it to the service provider or authorities. You should also review your credit reports and scores to see if there are any signs of identity theft or fraud.

3. Contact your bank and credit card companies: Landmark hackers obtained your bank and credit card information, which they could use to make purchases or withdrawals without your consent. You should inform your bank and credit card companies of the situation. They can help you freeze or cancel your cards, dispute any fraudulent charges and issue new cards for you.

You should also contact one of the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian or TransUnion) and request a fraud alert to be placed on your credit file. This will make it more difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name without verification. You can even freeze your credit if need be.

4. Use personal data removal services: In light of these ongoing data breaches, protecting personal data has become essential. One proactive step is to consider personal data removal services, which specialize in continuously monitoring and removing your information from various online databases and websites. These services employ advanced tools and techniques to identify and eliminate your data from people search sites, data brokers and other platforms where your information might be exposed. By using a data removal service, you can minimize the risk of identity theft and fraud, especially after a data breach. Additionally, these services often provide ongoing monitoring and alerts, keeping you informed of any new instances of your data appearing online and taking immediate action to remove it. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.

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5. Have strong antivirus software: As cyberthreats grow in frequency and sophistication, strong antivirus software is also crucial to fend off malware and phishing scams, both of which could expose your sensitive information if left unguarded.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

6. Use strong, unique passwords: Secure access to your accounts is paramount. Using strong, unique passwords for each account is an effective barrier against unauthorized access, especially when data breaches place your information at heightened risk. Avoid reusing passwords across multiple accounts. A strong password typically has a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers and special characters and is at least 12 characters long. Consider using a password manager to help generate and store complex passwords securely.

7. Keep your software updated: Outdated software can have vulnerabilities that hackers exploit. Ensure your operating systems, apps and browsers are updated to the latest versions to close any security gaps.

8. Limit sharing of personal information online: Be mindful about sharing personal information on social media or other platforms, as hackers can use this data in phishing schemes. Make sure to adjust privacy settings on your social media accounts so only trusted friends can view your profile information.

9. Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions: Public Wi-Fi networks are often less secure and can be vulnerable to hackers. When accessing sensitive accounts, use a VPN or wait until you’re on a trusted, secure network. For best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices

WINDOWS FLAW LETS HACKERS SNEAK INTO YOUR PC OVER WI-FI

Kurt’s key takeaway

The Landmark data breach is just one of several data breaches I’ve covered this year. While it’s still unclear what type of cyberattack hackers used to break into the insurance company’s systems, one thing is certain – they accessed sensitive data. Even more concerning is that hackers got into Landmark’s system not once but twice, hinting at some major cybersecurity gaps. If you think you may have been affected, stay vigilant and follow good cybersecurity practices.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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Would you buy art from the world’s first humanoid robot artist?

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October 30, 2024

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In a groundbreaking moment for the art world, Sotheby’s will auction the first-ever artwork created by a humanoid robot.

Ai-Da, the world’s first ultra-realistic robot artist, has produced a striking portrait of computing pioneer Alan Turing that will go under the hammer this month.

First humanoid robot artist (Ai-Da)

A fusion of art and artificial intelligence

Ai-Da, created in 2019 by British gallerist Aidan Meller, is a marvel of modern technology. Equipped with artificial intelligence algorithms, cameras in her eyes and bionic hands, she can paint autonomously without human intervention. Her latest work, “AI God,” is a 7.2-foot portrait of Alan Turing, estimated to fetch between $130,000 and $196,000.

First humanoid robot artist standing in front of the art she created (Ai-Da)

The significance of the subject

The choice of Alan Turing as the subject is particularly poignant. Turing, a foundational figure in modern computing, also expressed concerns about the potential dangers of artificial intelligence in the 1950s. Meller emphasized that the portrait’s muted tones and fragmented facial planes symbolize the challenges Turing foresaw in managing the rapid growth of AI.

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PRIVATE DATA FROM THE INTERNET

First humanoid robot artist (Ai-Da)

Ai-Da’s artistic journey

The auction for Ai-Da’s portrait of Alan Turing is scheduled for Oct. 31 to Nov. 7. While this may be Ai-Da’s debut at Sotheby’s, it’s far from her first artistic endeavor. Since her first solo exhibition at the University of Oxford, her works have been featured in major exhibitions worldwide, including the Venice Biennale and the United Nations AI for Good Global Initiative. In 2022, she gained attention for painting portraits of music icons like Billie Eilish and Paul McCartney.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

The first humanoid robot artist created Paul McCartney art. (Ai-Da)

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Blurring the lines of creativity

Ai-Da’s rise comes at a time when the boundaries between human creativity and machine-driven output are increasingly blurred. Her art raises fundamental questions about the nature of artistic expression. Can a machine truly create? What role does human intuition play in art, and how do AI-driven works fit into the larger conversation around creativity?

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First humanoid robot artist (Ai-Da)

Kurt’s key takeaways

As the art world eagerly anticipates the auction, it’s clear Ai-Da’s work represents more than just a novelty. It’s a pivotal moment that challenges our understanding of art, creativity and the role of AI in society. Whether this marks the beginning of a new era in art or a temporary fascination with AI, Ai-Da has undoubtedly secured her place as a trailblazer in the world of digital art. As we witness this intersection of artificial intelligence and creativity, we’re reminded that the future of art may be more diverse and technologically integrated than we ever imagined.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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Mercedes owner puffs vape into filter alerting ‘very unhealthy’ air

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October 30, 2024

HOW TO QUIT VAPING AS THE E-CIGARETTE FAD FIRES UP: 6 SMART STEPS TO TAKE

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It’s known that vaping can negatively impact one’s health, but a viral moment shows just how bad it can be.

Sheldon Shuffield of Fort Worth, Texas, posted a video to his TikTok account (@thisdadtiktoks) in August for his more than 600,000 followers, which now has more than two million likes and 22 million views.

“Oh my God, I just got a new fancy-schmancy Mercedes,” he began. “Do you want proof that vaping is bad for you?”

Shuffield, who once worked in health care, explained that his Mercedes came with a HEPA filter that is “similar to what’s in the operating room,” he said in the video.

(Left to right) Image of the Mercedes HEPA filter screen showing a normally-filtered and clean interior, next to the interior after the vape smoke was blown. (Sheldon Shuffield/TikTok @thisdadtiktoks)

The filter is meant to purify the air that enters the car to create a healthier environment.

Shuffield’s husband took a puff of his vape and blew it down onto the floorboards.

As he puffed out the light plume of smoke, the filter’s interior numbers shot through the roof, quickly changing from a “Good” 1 PM2.5 (particulate matter) rating, to an “Unhealthy” rating of 63, to a peak “Very Unhealthy” rating of 200, before the car began filtering out the poor air.

VAPES DISGUISED AS SCHOOL SUPPLIES WORRY AUTHORITIES AND PROMPT WARNINGS AS ITEMS POUR INTO US FROM CHINA

“Y’all!” Shuffield yelled in reaction. “You’re blowing that around with your kids in the car!”

“I’m so thankful that my car [has] that feature, because it just opened my eyes … that was just a little bit of vape smoke in my car.”

sheldon shuffield and mercedes hepa filter screen

Sheldon Shuffield (@thisdadtiktoks) posted his video to TikTok in August. It now has nearly 23 million views. (Sheldon Shuffield/TikTok @thisdadtiktoks)

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Shuffield claimed that fumes from vehicles on the road register lower harm ratings than vape smoke.

“I’m shocked that so many people willy-nilly inhale this all day long,” he said. “It just blows my mind.”

In a statement sent to Fox News Digital, a Mercedes spokesperson said the company offers the optional HEPA filter as part of its “Energizing Air Control Plus” feature in the Mercedes EQS and EQE Sedan and SUV models.

“This advanced filtration system significantly improves air quality by capturing fine dust, micro-particles and pollen, and reducing harmful pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides,” the spokesperson noted.

SEVERE HEALTH RISKS OF VAPING AND E-CIGARETTES, ESPECIALLY FOR YOUTH, SAY EXPERTS

“With a filtration efficiency exceeding 99.65% for particles as small as PM 0.3, it ensures a clean and safe environment inside the vehicle, comparable to clean rooms and operating theaters.”

While traditional cigarettes produce much higher levels of harmful chemicals, e-cigarettes “should not be considered safe,” an expert said. (iStock)

Theodore Wagener, PhD, director of the Center for Tobacco Research and co-leader of the Cancer Control Program at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, told Fox News Digital that this video is “not at all surprising.”

“The car is measuring PM2.5 (aka particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 microns or less), which is small enough to travel deep into the lungs,” the expert said.

“This type of information can increase motivation to stop vaping and smoking to improve overall health.”

“While traditional cigarettes produce … a greater amount of harmful chemicals than e-cigarettes, e-cigarettes … should not be considered safe, but instead considered less harmful than cigarettes.”

DAILY MARIJUANA SMOKERS FACE HIGHER RISK OF HEART ATTACK, STROKE, SAYS AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

The benefit of having a HEPA filter in a vehicle, Wagener said, is that it provides “real-time feedback of the impact of your behaviors.”

“This type of information can increase motivation to stop vaping and smoking to improve overall health,” he added.

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Shuffield’s video proves that “vaping is not benign,” Wagener said.

“It should only be used as a method of harm reduction for cigarette smokers who have been unable to quit smoking using FDA-approved products like nicotine lozenges and patches,” he said.

“Mercedes-Benz was the first automotive manufacturer to receive the ‘OFI CERT’ ZG 250-1 certification from the Austrian Research and Testing Institute (OFI),” Mercedes told Fox News Digital. “Air filters with this certificate reduce bacteria and viruses directly at the filter.” (iStock)

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“For smokers, switching completely to vaping nicotine will likely produce a health benefit, but the ultimate goal should be to completely stop use of all nicotine.”

Shuffield and his husband have “scaled back” on their vaping habits, he said, as they intend to be good role models for their kids – a son, 7, and a daughter, 14.

For people who are addicted to vaping, Shuffield’s advice is to “put it down and step away from it as much as you can.”

“Don’t let it be glued to your hand like a cellphone.”

Florida’s glowing waters among the natural wonders inspiring travelers

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October 30, 2024

THREE US TRAVEL DESTINATIONS LAND ON NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC’S ‘BEST OF THE WORLD 2025’ LIST

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Expedia has released its “Unpack ’25” report identifying trends that provide insight into travelers’ motivations for next year.

Vrbo, the vacation rental bookings-by-owner site, highlighted the “Phenomena List” trend as a theme for 2025.

Travelers are “seeking out awe-inspiring natural wonders, often planning entire trips around these events,” a spokesperson from Vrbo told Fox News Digital via email about the trend.

“Vrbo found these experiences are designed to offer peace and escape from the hustle of everyday life, with many travelers seeking prime spots for viewing these awe-inspiring natural wonders,” the spokesperson also said.

The top phenomenon that travelers are seeking to explore is the Northern Lights, according to Expedia survey data — with 61% of people hoping to catch a glimpse of the auroras.

Vacation rentals by owner booking site Vrbo indicates that “droves of travelers” have booked vacation homes this year to catch a glimpse of the solar eclipse. (Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu via Getty Images)

“Droves of travelers booked private vacation homes along the path of totality to see the total solar eclipse in 2024, proving people will travel great distances to see natural phenomena in real life,” said the Unpack ’25 press release.

Thirty percent of travelers favor seeing geological phenomena such as volcanoes, hot springs and geysers.

‘SLEEP DIVORCE’ ON VACATION: TRAVEL TREND HAS COUPLES ‘BREAKING UP’ AT BEDTIME

Travelers are willing to travel great distances while opting to stay in private vacation homes for these natural wonders — with 80% believing it’s important to stay in accommodations that offer prime viewing, according to Vrbo.

A new travel trend called the “Phenomena List” has travelers opting for trips centered on nature, astronomy and geology, according to Vrbo. (iStock)

“Americans are most interested in natural phenomena, like chasing the Northern Lights, witnessing synchronized fireflies in Tennessee, or [seeing] bioluminescent plankton in Florida,” said the spokesperson.

In Vero Beach, Florida, during the summer months, visitors can see bioluminescent waters glow brightly.

The light is due to a type of chemiluminescence in which there’s a chemical reaction within a living organism, according to National Geographic.

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Plankton are responsible for the bright lights illuminating the waters, which can be seen at night.

Bioluminescent waters have also been spotted on the West Coast, with visitors seeing bright waves on California beaches.

Bioluminescent waves glow off Hermosa Beach, California

The rare wonder of bioluminescent waters can be viewed on both the east and west coasts of California and Florida. (Jay L. Clendenin/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

“Kayaking or simply watching the glowing waves at night offers a surreal experience that feels otherworldly. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to witness nature’s brilliance up close,” said the Vrbo spokesperson.

Other domestic locations suggested are the International Dark Sky Park at Arches National Park, Utah, which is known for its views of the night sky free of light pollution.

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“The best viewing times are from April through October, making it a great fall destination for astronomy enthusiasts,” suggested a Vrbo spokesperson.

Astronomy enthusiasts can check out the International Dark Sky Park at Arches National Park in Utah, Vrbo suggests, for stunning views of the night sky. (Alan Dyer/VW PICS/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Another natural phenomenon suggested by Vrbo is the synchronous firefly season in the Great Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

“The synchronous fireflies are a rare spectacle where thousands of fireflies light up in unison,” said Vrbo.

“This natural event occurs in May and June in the Great Smoky Mountains, drawing visitors from around the country.”

Car is better for holiday travel than plane, many Americans say

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October 29, 2024

WHITE HOUSE SELECTS NORTH CAROLINA FAMILY’S CHRISTMAS TREE FARM TO PROVIDE 2024 TREE

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When it comes to Americans arriving at their holiday destinations this year, many have a preferred way to journey.

Motel 6 and Studio 6 have released the results of their 2024 Holiday Travel survey — sharing that more travelers prefer to drive.

Results found that more than half of people, or 51%, say they plan to drive to their destinations while 13% plan to fly.

The survey, done by Talker Research, asked 2,000 Americans who celebrate winter holidays.

Fifty-one percent of Americans prefer driving to their holiday destinations, according to a new Motel 6 survey. (iStock)

Forty percent of those driving say they like to drive, while 46% say their destination is close by.

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“There’s just something comforting and nostalgic about packing into the family car with a trunk filled with gifts and casseroles and road-tripping to your holiday celebrations,” said Julie Arrowsmith, president and CEO of G6 Hospitality, in a press release.

Twenty-six percent of Americans driving are doing so because it is cheaper than flying, according to Motel 6’s Holiday Travel survey. (iStock)

Arrowsmith added, “It’s no surprise we are seeing an uptick in this trusted travel choice this year given the current environment.”

Twenty-six percent of Americans say they drive because it is cheaper than flying.

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A spokesperson for AAA told Fox News Digital via email that driving gives travelers more flexibility with their departure times.

A spokesperson for AAA told Fox News Digital driving always tends to be an “overwhelming favorite” when it comes to holiday travel. (iStock)

“Driving is always the overwhelming favorite, because it tends to be cheaper and more convenient for most people,” said the spokesperson.

“Typically, 85%-90% of holiday travelers drive – and 7%-8% fly – and the rest will go by bus, train, or travel by cruise.”

Fox News Digital reached out to Motel 6 for additional comment.

Lassa fever death reported in Midwestern state

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October 29, 2024

FAUCI SAYS WEST NILE VIRUS WAS A ‘HARROWING’ EXPERIENCE: ‘AFRAID I WOULD NEVER RECOVER’

A middle-aged Iowa resident has died from Lassa fever, according to an alert from the Iowa Department of Health & Human Services (HHS).

The person, whose name and age were not shared, had recently returned to the state after traveling to West Africa, the release stated.

The initial testing of the patient was performed on Monday at the Nebraska Public Health Laboratory on Monday, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is “working to confirm the diagnosis,” per Iowa HHS.

“This is a difficult time for the family of this individual and I want to express our deepest condolences,” said Dr. Robert Kruse, state medical director of IOWA HHS, in the release.

Lassa fever is a hemorrhagic viral infection spread by rats in West Africa. (iStock)

“I want to assure Iowans that the risk of transmission is incredibly low in our state. We continue to investigate and monitor this situation and are implementing the necessary public health protocols.”

The patient received care at the University of Iowa Health Care, which is working closely with Iowa HHS, the CDC and other local public health partners to assist with contact tracing and monitoring, per the release.

What is Lassa fever?

Lassa fever is a hemorrhagic viral infection spread by rats in West Africa, according to Edward Liu, M.D., chief of infectious diseases at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center.

The viral illness is transmitted by a certain type of rat called the “multimammate rat” or Mastomys natalensis (Mastomys), per the CDC.

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“This is a very rare disease,” Liu told Fox News Digital.

“Public health will have to follow close contacts of the patient to make sure there are no subsequent cases of Lassa fever.”

“Diagnostic testing can be done in a laboratory with a high level of biosafety and enhanced infection prevention and control precautions,” the CDC noted. (iStock)

People can catch the fever through contact with infected rats or their saliva, urine or droppings, the same source stated.

“Lassa fever can also spread between people by close contact with bodily fluids,” Lui told Fox News Digital.

“Casual contact is not sufficient to transmit Lassa fever.”

“Lassa usually is a mild disease, but in severe cases it can cause uncontrolled bleeding and shock.”

The CDC confirmed that Lassa fever is not spread through hugging, shaking hands or sitting near someone.

“People with Lassa fever are not contagious until after their symptoms begin,” the agency stated.

Not using proper personal protective equipment (PPE) or not properly sterilizing equipment in health care settings can cause the illness to spread. (iStock)

Below are some of the ways in which the virus can spread, as listed on the CDC’s website.

Touching contaminated objects
Eating food that has the virus
Getting the virus in open cuts or sores
Eating rodents
Breathing in air that has infected urine or droppings, which can occur when cleaning or sweeping
Not using proper personal protective equipment (PPE) or not properly sterilizing equipment in health care settings

Symptoms of infection

While about 80% of people experience only mild symptoms, it can be fatal in rare cases.

“Lassa is usually a mild disease, but in severe cases it can cause uncontrolled bleeding and shock,” Lui cautioned.

Those with mild illness may have a slight fever, fatigue, weakness and headache, according to the CDC.

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In some cases, the fever can cause bleeding, breathing difficulties, vomiting, facial swelling, shock, and pain in the chest, back and abdomen.

Symptoms typically begin within one to three weeks after a person is infected.

The antiviral drug Ribavirin has been shown to be effective in treating the infection, the CDC stated. (iStock)

Hearing loss is a known effect of Lassa fever, with about 30% of people experiencing some level of deafness, the CDC stated. In some cases, the hearing loss can be permanent.

Pregnant women face a high risk of miscarriage if they are infected.

Diagnosis and treatment

Anyone who has visited West Africa and is experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention.

“Diagnostic testing can be done in a laboratory with a high level of biosafety and enhanced infection prevention and control precautions,” the CDC noted.

Supportive care — including rest, hydration and treatment of symptoms — is recommended for those with Lassa fever. (iStock)

The antiviral drug Ribavirin has been shown to be effective in treating the infection.

Supportive care — including rest, hydration and treatment of symptoms — is also recommended.

Preventing Lassa fever

The best way to prevent catching Lassa fever, according to the CDC, is to stay away from rats when visiting West Africa.

It is also recommended to keep food in rat-proof containers, trap rats in and around homes, and avoid eating rats.

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Health care personnel should wear protective clothing, sterilize equipment and follow other infection control protocols when caring for infected patients, the agency added.

Melissa Rudy is senior health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@fox.com.

World Series champ dishes on influence Freddie Freeman’s dad has on Dodgers star

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October 29, 2024

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Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman has, thus far, been fantastic in the World Series against the New York Yankees.

Freeman is a big reason why the Dodgers are up 3-0, as the 35-year-old has hit a home run in each game in the series, none bigger than the walk-off grand slam he hit in Game 1.

After hitting the first ever walk-off grand slam in World Series history, Freeman dedicated the moment to his father.

Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman, #5, celebrates after hitting a grand slam home run in the 10th inning against the New York Yankees during game one of the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium. (Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images)

“My swing is because of him, my approach is because of him, I am who I am because of him… I just wanted to share that with him because he’s been there. He’s been through a lot in his life too, and just to have a moment like that, I just wanted to be a part of that with him in that moment,” Freeman said during his postgame press conference.

One of Freeman’s former teammates, two-time all-star A.J. Pierzynski, joined OutKick’s “Don’t @ Me With Dan Dakich” to talk about the influence Freeman’s father has on him.

“I played with Freddie for two years. He would be in a slump, he’d be like ‘Oh, Fred’s coming in, I’ll be fixed’ and sure enough, his dad would come in and talk to him. I don’t know what they talked about, I don’t know if they did some Voodoo, I don’t know what they did, but all of the sudden Freddie would be back man,” Pierzynski said.

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Former Chicago White Sox catcher AJ Pierzynski, #12, talked about Freddie Freeman during a recent appearance on OutKicks “Dont @ Me With Dan Dakich.” (Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports)

“We’d go to LA, he’d be struggling, Fred would come in, they go to dinner, lunch, whatever, hang out and the next thing you know, Freddie is hitting homers. So whatever Fred Freeman, his dad has, must be pretty special because he gets Freddie right.”

Freeman certainly looks “right” at the plate right now despite playing through an ankle injury.

“(Freeman) wants to play every day, he wants to play 162, he wants to play every inning and to do what he is doing on a bad ankle. Now listen, the best thing that happened to him is he got that week off in between the LCS and the World Series, and it really got him healed up, and he looks much better, but Freddie Freeman is a stud in the World Series. He’s a stud in the regular season, he’s got an MVP, he’s got a World Series locked up already, he’s going for two here, he’s a surefire Hall of Famer in my book,” Pierzynski said.