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March 20, 2003-Experts
predicting another summer of increasing cases of the West Nile Virus,
including more fatalities, say a combination of preventative methods is
the best way to combat the mosquito-borne disease. 1. Make sure doors and
windows have tight fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have
tears or holes. 2. Use mosquito repellants
on exposed skin whenever you are in an area where mosquitoes may be present.
Repellants provide extra protection individuals need when exposed to mosquitoes
and other disease-carrying insects. 3. Eliminate standing
water, including clogged gutters, pool covers, empty wheelbarrows, and
pools of water anywhere in the yard. Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers,
ceramic pots or similar water-holding containers that have accumulated.
Be sure to remove used tires, which are a common haven for mosquito breeding. 4. Remind or help neighbors
to eliminate breeding sites on their properties. 5. Wear long sleeves,
long pants, socks and closed shoes. 6. Encourage local officials
to treat small ponds with larvacide and consider stocking larger ponds
with larva eating fish as additional control. 7. Ensure that organizers
of summertime activities for youth and the elderly - such as summer camps,
park and recreation centers, and senior centers are proactively using
pest control strategies and products. 8. Beware of the times
mosquitoes are most active; typically at dusk and dawn, April through
October, and avoid prime mosquito locations including marshes and wetlands. 9. Clean and chlorinate
swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. If not in use keep covered. 10. Learn more about your community's mosquito control program. If local elected officials have not implemented a mosquito control program, advice about pest control products for consumers and local governments is available at westnilevirusfacts.org and hsph.harvard.edu/mosquito/. Ensure that local community leaders are giving protection to the public through integrated mosquito management programs. For people who wonder about the risks of using of pest control products and repellents to control mosquitoes, Dr. Thompson says: "Get the facts. Pest control products are exhaustively tested before they reach the market, and they can and should be used to promote public health and safety when needed. West Nile Virus is a real threat and you can make smart choices to protect yourself and others around you."
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