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Last week, Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser issued a consumer alert regarding a “sharp rise” in risky youth behaviors, such as self-harm, encouraged by social AI chatbots.
Last week, Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser issued a consumer alert regarding a “sharp rise” in risky youth behaviors, such as self-harm, encouraged by social AI chatbots. Social AI chatbots operate similarly to platforms like ChatGPT but differ in their emphasis on carrying human-like conversations. Social AI chatbots also stand out because they typically emulate real people, fictional characters or professionals — including therapists. Social chatbots can also be “personalized” to act as a romantic partner, or designated traits like “high sex drive,” according to MIT Technology Review.
. Last October, a popular social chatbot platform (Character.AI) found itself the target of a wrongful death lawsuit after a 14-year-old boy committed suicide, allegedly encouraged by a chatbot based on the Game of Thrones character Daenerys Targaryen, with whom the boy had a “close relationship.” Alongside the consumer warning, Weiser issued a list of tips that parents should consider to familiarize themselves with social AI chatbots and guide conversations with their children: AI chatbots can become inappropriate, even if given innocuous prompts. Content “may include” violence, explicit sexuality, self-harm and eating disorders. AI chatbots can be addictive due to their ability to mimic human emotions and manipulate users. AI chatbots can perpetuate inaccurate, biased information, so all such statements should be “examined carefully and critically.” AI chatbot developers are able to access any information shared by their users. Teach children that social AI chatbots only seem human but are not. Learn and share the benefits and risks of all AI tools, not just social AI chatbots. Ask your kids about their online experiences and habits, such as the platforms they use and why. Monitor usage, enforce age restrictions, utilize parental controls like internet filters and supervise their tech use. Weiser also encouraged anyone who believes social AI chatbot companies are violating the law to file a complaint with the state AG’s office at StopFraudColorado.gov.
. Mesa County Public Health issued a food safety alert Tuesday regarding oysters distributed to restaurants and food retailers across 10 states, including Colorado. According to the health department, certain Khee Trading products — including frozen, raw and half-shell oysters — have been recalled due to concerns they could be contaminated with the norovirus. The department added that norovirus-contaminated food may look, smell and taste normal, so the best precaution is to verify whether the packaging’s lot code matches the recalled code: B250130. Norovirus symptoms typically present within 12 to 48 hours of exposure, with the most common being diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and stomach pain. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises consumers to contact their health care provider and local health department if they ate a recalled product and experience symptoms. Most people recover within one to three days, however, those infected are advised to stay home for two days after symptoms cease, given norovirus’ highly contagious nature. Restaurants are also advised to check refrigerators and freezers for the recalled items and dispose of them immediately if found.
The Grand River Mosquito Control District advised locals last week that mosquito season has begun, and taking preventative measures is key to deterring a population boom and potential illness. According to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, more than 600 Coloradans contracted the West Nile Virus in 2023 — 15 in Mesa County.
Nearly one year ago, Rick Enstrom was bitten by a mosquito.
The Grand River Mosquito Control District press release urged residents to “drain, dress and defend.” Stagnant water is the sole breeding ground for mosquitoes, so the most proactive measure you can take is to drain any sources on or near your home: the bottom of recycling containers, roof gutters, pet water bowls, bird baths, outdoor faucets and even children’s toys. Staying indoors during high mosquito activity (at dusk, dawn and overnight) is highly advised; however, anyone who must go outside should dress in loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and apply repellent, especially on any exposed skin.
Nothing ruins a pleasant summer night on the Western Slope like mosquitoes — even if they ar…
In addition to using repellent, locals can defend themselves by ensuring all residential doors and windows have undamaged screens. Health Headlines is a Sentinel feature compiled by Jace DiCola, health and wellness reporter. Email him at [email protected]
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