The Buzz on Mosquito Protection

The Buzz on Mosquito Protection

(Family Features) Just in time for summer barbecues and backyard play, annoying and dangerous female mosquitoes can turn a day outdoors into an evening tending to itchy mosquito bites.

They can be more than just annoying. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control recorded over 3,500 human cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) in 2007, resulting in 109 deaths. Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and Dog Heartworm - both spread by mosquitoes-also pose a significant and continued threat this coming year. Recent reports from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) state that widespread appearance of Dengue Fever in the continental United States is a real possibility.

The American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) is an international organization of nearly 2,000 public health professionals dedicated to preserving health through safe, environmentally-sound mosquito control programs since 1935.

During the twelfth annual "National Mosquito Control Awareness Week," June 22 - June 28, 2008, AMCA and AMCA member Kaz Inc. are working to get the buzz out about mosquitoes.

During Mosquito Awareness Week, the AMCA aims to educate the public about mosquitoes, health risks associated with mosquito-borne illnesses, and the important service provided by mosquito control workers worldwide.

Kaz, Inc., and its new Mosquito Vacuum by Stinger, plans to celebrate with a unique program called "Neighborhood Trap Out." The company will donate over two dozen Mosquito Vacuums to nonprofits and one neighborhood (up to 15 homeowners) to help reduce the population of mosquitoes in particularly buggy summer outdoor spaces. Parks/recreation departments, town spaces, summer camps and 4-H clubs, and other family-oriented nonprofits will benefit, impacting thousands of families and children.

Mosquito Vacuums are sold for approximately $279 at Home Depot and Lowe's stores nationwide, and provide family protection using the latest propane-fueled, insect control technology.

According to Kristin Anderson, Insect Control Brand Manager for Kaz, Inc., "We are proud to help spread the word about Mosquito Control Awareness Week through our own unique initiatives geared toward families. The Mosquito Vacuum is an important layer of protection, and is well-designed and ready to provide an effective, long-term solution to reducing the population of biting mosquitoes where you relax and enjoy the outdoors the most."

Here are some more tips for keeping mosquitoes out of your yard:

• " Avoid shaded areas where mosquitoes may be resting.
• " If possible, avoid outdoor activity when mosquitoes are most active, usually dawn and dusk.
• " Wear protective clothing such as long pants and long sleeve shirts when outdoors.
• " Use insect repellents properly. DEET, Picaridin and Oil of Lemon-Eucalyptus are proven to be the most effective. Use repellents only as directed on the label.
• " Eliminate all standing water on your property. Don't forget to remind your neighbors, too. Their mosquitoes may also be your mosquitoes.

For more details on the Stinger Mosquito Vacuums (sold as NOsquito in Home Depot stores), visit the product website at  www.FarewellMosquitoes.com.

Courtesy of Family Features