Imagine driving across the mysterious <keyword id="20999261" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Martian-landscape" source="keywords">Martian landscape</keyword>, when a rock suddenly splits open to reveal a dazzling array of bright yellow crystals. What's more, these crystals appear to be made of a substance we didn’t even think or know existed on this alien planet! Spooked yet?<br /><br />The scientists were left astounded too, as <keyword id="19935155" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="NASA" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="NASA" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="NASA">NASA</keyword>'s Curiosity <keyword id="718236" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mars-rover" source="Orion">Mars rover</keyword> confirmed the discovery of yellow <keyword id="22491311" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sulphur-crystals" source="keywords">sulphur crystals</keyword> on the Red Planet. <keyword id="22491312" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="elemental-sulphur" source="keywords">Elemental sulphur</keyword> requires very specific conditions to form—conditions that haven’t been linked to this Martian location. Moreover, Curiosity found not just one, but a field of these bright sulphur rocks!<br /><br />Since October 2023, Curiosity has been exploring a sulphate-rich area of <keyword id="19901192" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Mars" source="keywords">Mars</keyword>. Essentially salts containing sulphur, sulphates typically form as water evaporates. Previously, Mars has revealed sulphur combined with other elements in sulphur-based minerals. But this rock showed pure elemental sulphur, marking a stark contrast. The connection between this sulphur and other sulphur-based minerals in the region remains unknown.<br /><br />“Finding a field of stones made of pure sulphur is like finding an oasis in the desert. It shouldn't be there, so now we have to explain it. Discovering strange and unexpected things is what makes planetary exploration so exciting,” said Curiosity's project scientist, Ashwin Vasavada of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California.<br /><br /><div type="image" title="snow lake" msid="111898995" hostid="261" sizebytes="193768" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;NASA’s Curiosity captured this close-up image of a rock nicknamed “Snow Lake” on June 8, 2024. Nine days earlier, the rover had crushed a similar-looking rock and revealed crystalline textures—and elemental sulphur—inside.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div><br />Curiosity's exploration of <keyword id="21152586" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Gediz-Vallis" source="keywords">Gediz Vallis</keyword> channel on Mount Sharp has revealed significant findings since 2014. Each mountain layer represents a different Martian era, and Curiosity's mission is to find where and when ancient Mars could have supported microbial life.<br /><br />Identified from space before Curiosity's launch, Gediz Vallis was marked as a key target. Scientists believe water and debris flows carved the channel, leaving a ridge of boulders and sediment extending 3 kilometres down. Studying this helps understand Mars' landscape evolution over billions of years. And recent observations suggest both floods and landslides formed the debris mounds on the channel floor.<br /><br />Water-carried stones are rounded, while angular rocks in some mounds indicate dry avalanches. Water exposure also created white "halo" shapes in some rocks, revealed by erosion, pointing to a complex history of <keyword id="21152585" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="water-on-Mars" source="keywords">water on Mars</keyword>. This led the team to collect rock samples for further analysis.<br /><br /><div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111810338" title="Noisy neighbour: The Earth randomly blasted Venus with a Missy Elliott hip-hop song last week, because why not?" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><br />On June 18, Curiosity took the opportunity to sample a large rock dubbed “Mammoth Lakes”. The sulphur rocks encountered were too small and fragile for drilling, but this nearby rock provided a viable target. Engineers carefully selected a drill site and a stable parking position on the loose, sloping surface.<br /><br />Curiosity then drilled its 41st hole, using its 2-metre robotic arm. The rover's instruments analysed the powderised rock, revealing its composition. After completing this task, Curiosity moved on from Mammoth Lakes, continuing its journey to uncover more secrets within Gediz Vallis channel.<br />

Freaky finding: NASA's Curiosity rover has found something on Mars that shouldn’t have existed there!

The <keyword id="6372936" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Caribbean" source="Orion">Caribbean</keyword> is a dream destination for many travellers, with its turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and vibrant culture. With so many beautiful islands to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to go. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or a taste of local culture, there's an island in the Caribbean that's perfect for you. Here are some of the best islands to visit in 2024, along with their specialities:<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Jamaica" comment="subhead" text="Jamaica"><span data-til="noop"><keyword id="20086795" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jamaica" source="keywords">Jamaica</keyword></span></cmsannotation><br /><div type="image" title="1" msid="110595848" hostid="261" sizebytes="2074369" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Experience the vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty of Jamaica.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Feel the rhythm of reggae and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Jamaica. From the iconic Dunn's River Falls to the birthplace of Bob Marley, every corner of this island pulsates with vibrant energy and laid-back vibes.<br /><strong>Specialty: </strong>Reggae Music and Stunning Waterfalls<br /><strong>Why Visit: </strong>Jamaica is famous for its laid-back vibe, reggae music, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can explore the birthplace of Bob Marley, relax on the beautiful beaches, or hike to the top of Dunn's River Falls for a refreshing dip in the cascading water.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Barbados" comment="subhead" text="Barbados"><span data-til="noop"><keyword id="20398397" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Barbados" source="keywords">Barbados</keyword></span></cmsannotation><br /><div type="image" title="2" msid="110595869" hostid="261" sizebytes="2733664" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Join the lively Crop Over Festival and savor the rich flavors of Barbados.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Sip on world-class rum, dance to the beat of calypso, and join the colourful festivities of Crop Over. Barbados is a treasure trove of cultural delights, where every day is a celebration of life, love, and the rich heritage of the Caribbean.<br /><strong>Specialty: </strong>Rum and Crop Over Festival<br /><strong>Why Visit: </strong>Barbados is known for its vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and stunning landscapes. Visitors can tour rum distilleries, relax on pristine beaches, or experience the excitement of the Crop Over Festival, a lively celebration of music, dance, and local cuisine.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Bahamas" comment="subhead" text="Bahamas"><span data-til="noop"><keyword id="20957203" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Bahamas" source="keywords">Bahamas</keyword></span></cmsannotation><br /><div type="image" title="3" msid="110595886" hostid="261" sizebytes="1823726" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Relax on the unique pink sand beaches and swim with friendly pigs in the Bahamas.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas and discover a paradise like no other. With its pink sand beaches, swimming pigs, and underwater caves, this island chain offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.<br /><strong>Specialty: </strong>Pink Sand Beaches and Swimming with Pigs<br /><strong>Why Visit: </strong>The Bahamas is famous for its crystal-clear waters, pink sand beaches, and friendly locals. Visitors can swim with pigs at Pig Beach, explore underwater caves, or relax in luxury at one of the many resorts.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Saint Lucia" comment="subhead" text="Saint Lucia"><span data-til="noop">Saint Lucia</span></cmsannotation><br /><div type="image" title="4" msid="110595910" hostid="261" sizebytes="2051840" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Marvel at the iconic Pitons and soak in the Sulphur Springs of Saint Lucia.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Marvel at the majestic Pitons, soak in the healing waters of the Sulphur Springs and lose yourself in the natural beauty of Saint Lucia. Whether you're hiking through lush rainforests or lazing on pristine beaches, this island is a sanctuary for the soul.<br /><strong>Specialty: </strong>Pitons and Sulphur Springs<br /><strong>Why Visit: </strong>Saint Lucia is known for its iconic Pitons, towering volcanic peaks that rise dramatically from the sea. Visitors can hike to the top for stunning views, soak in the therapeutic waters of the Sulphur Springs, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Aruba" comment="subhead" text="Aruba"><span data-til="noop">Aruba</span></cmsannotation><br /><div type="image" title="5" msid="110595920" hostid="261" sizebytes="1925207" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Admire the windswept Divi-Divi trees and enjoy world-class windsurfing in Aruba.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Bask in the golden glow of Aruba's sun-drenched beaches and discover a world of adventure beneath the waves. With its iconic Divi-Divi trees and world-class windsurfing, this island is a playground for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.<br /><strong>Speciality: </strong>Divi-Divi Trees and Windsurfing<br /><strong>Why Visit: </strong>Aruba is famous for its beautiful Divi-Divi trees, which are bent by the constant trade winds, creating a unique and picturesque landscape. Visitors can try their hand at windsurfing, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or explore the colourful streets of Oranjestad.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Turks and Caicos" comment="subhead" text="Turks and Caicos"><span data-til="noop">Turks and Caicos</span></cmsannotation><br /><div type="image" title="6" msid="110595925" hostid="261" sizebytes="1804693" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Discover the pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs of Turks and Caicos.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Indulge in the ultimate beach getaway on the pristine shores of Turks and Caicos. With its secluded coves, vibrant coral reefs, and turquoise waters teeming with marine life, this island paradise is a haven for relaxation and exploration.<br /><strong>Specialty: </strong>Pristine Beaches and Snorkeling<br /><strong>Why Visit: </strong>Turks and Caicos is a haven for beach lovers, with miles of pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can snorkel among colourful coral reefs, spot tropical fish and sea turtles, or simply relax and soak up the sun on one of the many secluded beaches.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Grenada" comment="subhead" text="Grenada"><span data-til="noop">Grenada</span></cmsannotation><br /><div type="image" title="7" msid="110595935" hostid="261" sizebytes="2595877" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Breathe in the fragrant spice plantations and explore underwater sculptures in Grenada.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Awaken your senses on the 'Spice Island' of Grenada, where the air is infused with the intoxicating scent of nutmeg and cinnamon. Explore lush rainforests, dive into underwater worlds, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this Caribbean gem.<br /><strong>Specialty: </strong>Spice Island and Underwater Sculpture Park<br /><strong>Why Visit: </strong>Grenada is known as the "Spice Island" for its production of nutmeg, cinnamon, and other spices. Visitors can tour spice plantations, hike through lush rainforests, or explore the world's first underwater sculpture park, which features stunning sculptures submerged in crystal-clear waters.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Dominica" comment="subhead" text="Dominica"><span data-til="noop">Dominica</span></cmsannotation><br /><div type="image" title="8" msid="110595941" hostid="261" sizebytes="2259774" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Hike to the Boiling Lake and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Dominica.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Take on a journey of discovery in Dominica, the nature lover's paradise. From the steaming waters of Boiling Lake to the lush landscapes of the rainforest, this island offers endless opportunities for eco-adventure and rejuvenation.<br /><strong>Specialty: </strong>Boiling Lake and Eco-Tourism<br /><strong>Why Visit: </strong>Dominica is a paradise for nature lovers, with its lush rainforests, dramatic waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can hike to the famous Boiling Lake, go whale watching, or take a dip in the natural hot springs.<br /><br />No matter which Caribbean island you choose to visit in 2024, you're sure to be enchanted by its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for the vacation of a lifetime!<br /><br />SEE ALSO:<br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/international/webstories/top-must-do-activities-in-the-caribbean/slidelist/110551569.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Must-do activities in the Caribbean</a><br />

Best islands to visit in the Caribbean in 2024

<ul class="summary-list"><li><strong>I've ticked several dreamy places off my bucket list, from the Maldives to French Polynesia.</strong></li><li><strong>My travels with my husband and children have taken us to romantic locales all around the world.</strong></li></ul><p>Setting off on a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/family-travel-tips-for-road-trips-international-vacations-2024-1">family vacation</a> doesn't mean skipping romantic locales. In fact, the world is brimming with destinations that effortlessly cater to both lovebirds and jet-setting families, merging fine dining, lavish lodging, and kid-approved activities.</p><p>Whether you're drawn to the sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean or the allure of the "City of Light," here are five exquisite places I've discovered with my husband and kids that, in addition to romance, offer awe-inspiring experiences for the whole family.</p><h2><strong>Go adventuring in St. Lucia</strong></h2><p>St. Lucia holds a special place in my family's hearts, as one of our first <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-family-vacation-destination-itinerary-kids-memories-2023-5">international destinations</a>. Every day was full of outdoor adventures like trekking along nature trails to discover hidden waterfalls, relaxing in a bubbling mud bath at Sulphur Springs, and soaking in the thermal waters at New Jerusalem Mineral Baths.</p><p>While couples flock to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/jade-mountain-st-lucia-trip-review-travel-photos-2020-2">St. Lucia for its top-notch luxury resorts</a> and iconic views of the majestic Piton Mountains, the island has much more to offer. Take a jeep safari to witness the Soufrière Volcano, the world's only drive-in volcano, or soar through the lush rainforest on a zip line at Morne Coubaril Historical Adventure Park.</p><div type="image" title="Taryn White's daughter snorkeling at Sugar Beach in St. Lucia." height="4000" width="6000" msid="107405173" hostid="261" sizebytes="550108"></div><p>For a unique and delicious experience, create your own chocolate bar at the Tree to Bar or Bean to Bar experience at Rabot Hotel. And, of course, the island has numerous beaches to enjoy, including our favorite, Anse des Pitons, at the Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Hotel, which is nestled between the Gros and Petit Pitons.</p><h2><strong>You won't have to fight for space on the beach in Anguilla</strong></h2><p>While Anguilla is a coveted honeymoon destination, families can also find bliss on its shores. With 33 immaculate beaches, including the renowned Shoal Bay, there's never a need to jostle for a sun lounger or a spot on the sand. At other island destinations, I've left my hotel room at 7 a.m. just to snag a coveted spot by the pool, which can be stress-inducing when you have kids in tow. But in Anguilla, I've never felt rushed for anything.</p><p>What's more, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/photos-anguilla-best-caribbean-island-2020-7">Anguilla's idyllic beaches</a> provide endless opportunities to frolic in crystal-clear waters, snorkel at child-friendly spots like Little Bay and Sandy Islands, and embark on exciting boat tours with companies like Jr.'s Glass Bottom Boat.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-places-to-visit-with-kids-and-adults-only-2023-10">Resorts catering to families</a> include Zemi Beach House, which has an array of premium rooms, penthouse suites, beachfront villas, and a full schedule of programming for kids, like movie nights, treasure hunts, coconut bowling, and cooking classes. The Aurora Anguilla Resort &amp; Golf Club is another welcome oasis, with 178 lavish suites, including a magnificent five-bedroom estate. The real highlight at Aurora Anguilla is the brand-new Aurora Entertainment Park, complete with a zero-entry pool, lazy river, exhilarating water slides, and a splash pad for the littlest tykes.</p><h2><strong>Virginia's Wine Country also caters to the under-21 set</strong></h2><p>With more than 300 wineries and award-winning wine regions, the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-things-living-in-virginia-from-someone-who-left-misses-it-2023">Virginia Wine Country</a> — often hailed as the birthplace of American wine — exudes a romantic, farm-to-table charm against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains.</p><p>Family-friendly establishments, such as Walsh Family Wine, CrossKeys Vineyards, Morais Vineyards, and Veritas, not only offer a variety of activities, from guided vineyard walks to horseback riding, but also cater to little ones with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/health/best-non-alcoholic-drinks">non-alcoholic options</a>, live music, and grassy play areas. Bluemont Vineyard doubles the fun with its sister property, Great Country Farms, allowing families to pair farm activities with wine tastings, as well as overnight stays at their cozy Blue Ridge Mountain cottages.</p><div type="image" title="Taryn White and her husband at CrossKeys Vineyard." height="3024" width="4032" msid="107405175" hostid="261" sizebytes="529490"></div><p>For those seeking a luxurious family retreat, there are many options, like Salamander Middleburg in Loudoun County. This elegant hotel evokes the grandeur of a country estate, with an on-site equestrian program, a dedicated children's pool, nature trails, and a wealth of family-oriented events and activities, such as fun crafting sessions and movie nights. In Albemarle County, head to Keswick Hall or The Clifton, two historic boutique properties with spacious suites and outdoor and culinary experiences ranging from nature trails to meals prepared by Michelin-starred chefs.</p><h2><strong>Paris isn't just for lovers</strong></h2><p>From the Eiffel Tower to quaint cafés and sprawling gardens, Paris attracts couples from every corner of the globe. But don't be fooled. Paris is not just for lovers. Families, too, can find their own slice of heaven in this fairytale city. The Jardin du Luxembourg and Jardin des Tuileries are just two of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/what-i-wish-i-knew-before-taking-kids-to-paris-2023-7">the city's kid-friendly</a> parks and gardens, where the whole crew can watch puppet shows, sail miniature boats in monumental fountains, and ride vintage carousels.</p><p>Additional spots to explore include the Musée de la Magie and Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, with interactive exhibits and programs everyone will love. And of course, no <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-things-to-do-in-paris-what-to-skip-american-2024-1">trip to Paris</a> would be complete without indulging in crepes, pastries, and desserts at beloved spots like Crêperie Gigi, Angelina, and Ladurée. As the sun sets over the city, embark on a magical dinner cruise along the Seine. For a traditional thrill, Disneyland Paris awaits just outside the city, an easy day trip for amusement park lovers.</p><p>With so many accommodation options in Paris, ranging in style and size, the Hôtel du Louvre stands out as an ideal base in the city. The hotel has a prime location near the Louvre Museum and the bustling Avenue des Champs-Élysées. It also has family suites complete with bunk beds or twin beds, ensuring that everyone has plenty of space to unwind after a day of sightseeing.</p><h2><strong>Maui offers fantastic food with a view</strong></h2><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-traveling-to-maui-hawaii">Maui's beauty</a> is endless, from the fiery sunrise over Haleakalā National Park to the winding journey along the scenic Road to Hana. The island's coastline is also speckled with a myriad of family-friendly resorts and postcard-perfect beaches like Ka'anapali, Wailea, and Makena Beach.</p><div type="image" title="The author and her family at Ka'anapali Beach." height="1670" width="2670" msid="107405177" hostid="261" sizebytes="188010"></div><p>When it comes to dining, the options are just as enticing. Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice serves some of the best shaved ice on the island, and my family visited it daily for a selection of tropical flavors like lilikoi and calamansi. At Hula Grill Ka'anapali, families can savor a Hawaiian-style meal overlooking the ocean, and the kiddos will love the restaurant's "pog" — passion fruit-orange-guava — slushies.</p><p>If you're lucky enough to snag a table at the renowned Mama's Fish House, prepare to be blown away by its delectable dishes and spectacular views. For the ultimate Hawaiian dining experience, attend a luau. While most of these traditional Hawaiian feasts are <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/traveling-to-maui-right-now-tourism-update-help-recovery-safe-2023-8">geared toward tourists</a>, they're an insightful way to learn about Hawaiian culture through food, dance, and storytelling.</p>

I'm a travel expert and often travel with my family. These 5 romantic destinations are surprisingly great for families.

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/575199799105842a008c6a81-2400/2207054.jpg" alt="ROK and US Marine Chemical attack" data-mce-source="Cpl. Tyler Giguere/US Marine Corps" data-mce-caption="US and Republic of Korea Marines move to safety during a gas attack drill." data-link="https://www.dvidshub.net/image/2207054/us-and-rok-marines-test-cbrn-response-during-gas-attack" /><p class="source"><span><a href="https://www.dvidshub.net/image/2207054/us-and-rok-marines-test-cbrn-response-during-gas-attack">Cpl. Tyler Giguere/US Marine Corps</a></span></p><p class="caption">US and Republic of Korea Marines move to safety during a gas attack drill.</p></div><p></p></div></div></span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chemical agent attacks have long been a part of a military's arsenal. During </span><a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/4240365/Ancient-Persians-who-gassed-Romans-were-the-first-to-use-chemical-weapons.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">ancient times</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, while the Persians were under siege by the Romans, they pumped toxic gases made from sulphur crystals and bitumen into tunnels that the Romans were digging. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Centuries later, we've found more innovative methods to wreak havoc with agents that are naked to the human eye.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">It is estimated by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention that the normal response time for a chemical attack is </span><a href="https://chemm.nlm.nih.gov/chempack.htm" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">12 hours</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> - far too long for an emergency of this scope.</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><span>In addition to this deficiency, hospitals actually carry a limited amount of supplies for nerve agent exposures. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><span>Even if a hospital was lucky enough to have an ample supply, their varied shelf lives make them unsustainable resource due to their costly nature.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/542436f06da8110b290a4129-2400/women syria chemical gas treatment.jpg" alt="Women Syria Chemical Gas Treatment" data-mce-source="Badi Khlif/Reuters" data-mce-caption="Women, affected by what activists say was a gas attack, receive treatment inside a makeshift hospital in Kfar Zeita village in the central province of Hama on May 22, 2014." /><p class="source"><span>Badi Khlif/Reuters</span></p><p class="caption">Women, affected by what activists say was a gas attack, receive treatment inside a makeshift hospital in Kfar Zeita village in the central province of Hama on May 22, 2014.</p></div><p></p></div></div></span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To address these insufficiencies, a streamlined logistical system has been implemented by the CDC - their antidote of choice? </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Meet Chempack.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/57519b6591058423008c68f3-960/chempack.jpg" alt="chempack firefighter" data-mce-source="Center for Disease Control and Prevention" data-mce-caption="First responders with a Chempack." data-link="http://blogs.cdc.gov/publichealthmatters/2015/02/cdcs-chempack-program-the-stockpile-that-may-protect-you-from-a-chemical-attack/" /><p class="source"><span><a href="http://blogs.cdc.gov/publichealthmatters/2015/02/cdcs-chempack-program-the-stockpile-that-may-protect-you-from-a-chemical-attack/">Center for Disease Control and Prevention</a></span></p><p class="caption">First responders with a Chempack.</p></div><p></p></div></div></span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chempacks contain antidotes to assist state and local officials in responding quickly during a nerve agent attack. </span></p><p><a href="http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/mtgs/drug_chemical/2008/jstear.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Initiated</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> in 2002 with an overall budget of $6 million, the program has since expanded to 1,960 Chempacks </span><a href="http://blogs.cdc.gov/publichealthmatters/2015/02/cdcs-chempack-program-the-stockpile-that-may-protect-you-from-a-chemical-attack/" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">strategically located</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> in 1,340 locations in the US.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In fact, more than 90% of the US population is an hour away from a Chempack. </span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/57519aa7910584e73c8c65c5-953/screen shot 2016-06-03 at 10.52.16 am.png" alt="Chempack locations" data-mce-source="Center for Disease Control and Prevention" data-mce-caption="A map of Chempack coverage areas and allocations." data-link="http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/mtgs/drug_chemical/2008/jstear.pdf" /><p class="source"><span><a href="http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/mtgs/drug_chemical/2008/jstear.pdf">Center for Disease Control and Prevention</a></span></p><p class="caption">A map of Chempack coverage areas and allocations.</p></div><p></p></div></div></span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For obvious reasons, the specific location for each of these Chempacks is </span><a href="http://www.ashp.org/menu/News/PharmacyNews/NewsArticle.aspx?id=1656" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">not disclosed</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to the public. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There are </span><a href="http://blogs.cdc.gov/publichealthmatters/2015/02/cdcs-chempack-program-the-stockpile-that-may-protect-you-from-a-chemical-attack/" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">two different types</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> of Chempacks: a version for first responders, which is used to treat up to 454 people; and a more robust version for hospitals, which is used to treat up to 1,000 people.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Each chempack unit contains the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/phpr/documents/coopagreement-archive/fy2004/chempack-attachj.pdf" target="_blank">antidotes</a></span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to prevent human nervous system failure, such as Diazepam, which reduces the severity of chemically-induced convulsions. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To deliver these agents, the Chempack also </span><a href="http://www.ashp.org/menu/News/PharmacyNews/NewsArticle.aspx?id=1656" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">includes</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> military grade MARK 1 autoinjectors that are loaded with doses of the antidotes.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/57519a299105841c008c6926-955/screen shot 2016-06-03 at 10.52.28 am.png" alt="Chempack internals" data-mce-source="Center for Disease Control and Prevention" data-mce-caption="The components of a Chempack." data-link="http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/mtgs/drug_chemical/2008/jstear.pdf" /><p class="source"><span><a href="http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/mtgs/drug_chemical/2008/jstear.pdf">Center for Disease Control and Prevention</a></span></p><p class="caption">The components of a Chempack.</p></div><p></p></div></div></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/57519c5652bcd01f7b8c6743-711/us-hospitals-make-strides-in-cutting-key-infections-cdc-report.jpg" alt="A general view of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters is seen in Atlanta, Georgia, in this file photo taken September 30, 2014.   REUTERS/Tami Chappell/Files  " data-mce-source="Thomson Reuters" data-mce-caption="General view of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters in Atlanta." /><p class="source"><span>Thomson Reuters</span></p><p class="caption">General view of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters in Atlanta.</p></div><p></p></div></div></span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In densely populated areas like New York, officials have created </span><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/phpr/pubs-links/2016/documents/2016_preparedness_report_stories_4.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">mobile Chempack units</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, where a designated driver can leave their location within three minutes, resulting is a faster response time. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">US National Intelligence Director James Clapper <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/02/09/politics/james-clapper-isis-syrian-refugees/">stating</a></span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that terrorist organizations, such as ISIS, were already planning on using chemical weapons towards the US, the CDC's Chempacks may prove to be a public necessity. </span></p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/a-chemical-reaction-results-in-a-nightmare-2016-5">A chemical reaction results in the stuff of nightmares</a></h3>        <div>            <div>    <script src="http://player.ooyala.com/v3/6e12e8b3387a44daacfb73afba25a76e"></script>    <div class="ooyala-video-player" data-video-autoplay="false" data-video-id="0yNGVmMzE6Kz6oE8S6EhLe1VnvMjFTs6" data-player-variable="ooyalapopvideo" id="ooyalaplayer_popvideo" style="width:1280px;height:720px"></div>    <script>    if (typeof RunFunctions === 'undefined') { var RunFunctions = []; }     RunFunctions.push(function()    {         var ooyalapopvideo = OO.Player.create('ooyalaplayer_popvideo', '0yNGVmMzE6Kz6oE8S6EhLe1VnvMjFTs6',{ autoplay: 'false' });     });    </script>    <noscript><div>Please enable Javascript to watch this video</div></noscript></div>        </div>        <script>(function() { function createPlayer() { OO.ready(function() { RunFunctions.forEach(function(ooyalaFunction) { ooyalaFunction(); }); RunFunctions = [];}); } createPlayer(); }()); </script>    </div>

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