New Zealand Airport Sets 3 Minute ‘Limit’ To Goodbye Hugs

Oct 22 2024

Dunedin Airport in New Zealand has introduced a three-minute limit on hugs in its drop-off zone to improve traffic flow and safety.

A sign in the area humorously advises, “Max hug time 3 minutes. For fonder farewells please use the car park.”

Airport CEO Dan De Bono explained that many warnings in drop-off zones are strict, threatening fines or wheel clamping, which they wanted to avoid. Instead, the goal is to gently remind people not to linger, as long farewells can block the area for others.

De Bono noted that the zone often sees emotional goodbyes, sometimes involving romantic gestures, which can delay traffic.

The new rule aims to balance emotional farewells with practical space management. Despite the playful approach, the policy has sparked debate.

Some critics on social media argue that the airport shouldn’t control how long people hug, calling the rule “inhumane,” while others appreciate the friendly approach in comparison to airports worldwide that impose drop-off fees.

De Bono emphasised that no staff will strictly enforce the rule, but they may politely ask people to move along if they overstay, ensuring the space is accessible for everyone.

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Gym Weights Could Have 362 Times More Bacteria Than Toilet Seats

Oct 21 2024

A recent study reveals that gym equipment is teeming with harmful bacteria, posing health risks to gym-goers.

Researchers from FitRated collected samples from 27 gym machines and found more than a million germs per square inch on each piece of equipment.

Bacteria such as gram-positive cocci, which can cause skin infections, and antibiotic-resistant gram-negative rods were discovered on treadmills, exercise bikes, and free weights.

Notably, free weights contained 362 times more germs than a toilet seat, while treadmills had 74 times more bacteria than a public bathroom faucet.

The study highlights that bacteria thrive on gym equipment due to its frequent use by multiple people. Despite many gyms providing disinfectant wipes, users often neglect to clean equipment before and after use.

Experts recommend disinfecting machines, practicing good hygiene, avoiding touching the face, and washing hands thoroughly to reduce exposure to germs. For added safety, changing out of gym clothes immediately after a workout is also advised.

#MaltaDaily

Rolex Middle Sea Race Continues After Stormy Weather

Oct 21 2024

The 2024 Rolex Middle Sea Race, over 24 hours in, has been marked by dramatic wind and sea changes.

As of 16:00 CEST, most of the fleet is spread between Capo Murro di Porco and areas north of Sicily, navigating through light winds. Leading the race is Remon Vos’ Black Jack 100, followed closely by Scallywag 100, Lucky, and Balthasar.

Unstable weather has challenged the fleet, with low pressure generating violent squalls, high winds, and rough seas.

A major squall hit the fleet near Sicily’s southeast corner, causing dismastings and severe damage to several yachts, forcing 29 to withdraw, including last year’s winner, Bullitt.

After the squall, sailors faced calm conditions and struggled with minimal wind. Notable participants, such as the Maltese boats Lazy Duck and Elusive 2, reported intense storms and squally gusts, while navigating water spouts and lightning.

At the front, Black Jack leads but faces competition from smaller boats like Black Pearl as the race progresses towards the Stromboli marker, with the race outcome still uncertain.

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Egypt Declared Malaria Free

Oct 21 2024

Egypt has been officially certified malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO), a milestone described by the UN agency as “truly historic.”

Malaria, which has affected Egypt since ancient times, has now been eradicated thanks to nearly a century of efforts. The country’s first attempts to control the disease began in the 1920s, with measures such as banning rice cultivation and other crops near residential areas to reduce human-mosquito contact.

Certification is granted by the WHO when a country proves no malaria transmission for at least three consecutive years.

Egypt is the third country in the WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Region to achieve this status, following the United Arab Emirates and Morocco. Globally, 44 countries and one territory have reached this significant milestone.

Despite this achievement, the WHO cautioned that Egypt must remain vigilant to maintain its malaria-free status and prevent the reintroduction of the disease.

Malaria continues to claim over 600,000 lives annually, mostly in Africa, making prevention and ongoing monitoring crucial. While vaccines are available in some regions, the most effective prevention methods include monitoring the disease and minimising mosquito exposure.

This certification marks a new phase for Egypt in sustaining its malaria-free status after decades of battling the mosquito-borne illness.

#MaltaDaily