Controlling West Nile Virus (NAPSA)—Thebest wayto protect your family from mosquitoes may be to eliminate the pests before they have a chancetobite. Studies show people can uselarvicides to kill developing mosquitoes before they turn into breeding, biting adults. That maybe significant because with just one bite, infected mosquitoes can transmit West Nile virus—a disease that has become a major health concern for people in many parts of the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, West Nile virus has been identified in more than % of the states. It has caused a number of human deaths in 2002. Health authorities expect it to reach perhaps even the West Coastthis year. “If you are concerned about the safety of your family members and your pets, one of the best ways to prevent the spread of any mosquito-borne disease, such as West Nile virus, is to eliminate mosquitoes before they bite you,” says Terri Considine, vice president, consumer division for Well- mark International, a leader in products for professional pest control. “A simple application of a larvicide offers peace of mind.It’s an easy way to reduce the mosquito population in your own backyard.” Considine’s company makes Zodiac Preventative Mosquito Control (PMC). The larvicide kills mosquito larvae before they turn into adults, helping to reduce the threat of West Nile virus. The product is based on proven insect growth regulator technology, and is available through retailers and catalogs that sell pet products West Nile Virus Spreads In 2002 fe Home owners can take proactive steps to help prevent the spread of the WestNile virus. such asflea andtick control. The larvicide is in granular form and comes in a 1.5-pound shaker bottle. When applied, the granules offer protection against adult mosquito emergence for up to 21 days. When used asdirected, the larvicide will not adversely affect humans, animals, fish or vegetation. To ensure maximumprotection, larvicide should be used in thefollowing locations: Water gardens Bird baths * Old tires Flower pots * Tree holes * Pool covers Urns Rain barrels Roof gutters Ornamental fountains Abandoned swimmingpools e Any other water-holding receptacle To learn more about West Nile virus, contact your local or state health department or visit www.cde.gov. For more informa- tion about Zodiac products, call 1-800-950-4783 or visit the Web site www.zodiacpet.com.
