New Tool Reduces The Risk Of Lyme Disease (NAPSA)—When outdooractivity increases, so does concern for a serious public health problem— Lyme disease. Nearly 18,000 humancases of Lyme disease were reported in 2000. However, health officials believe that only one in 10 cases are actually reported. More than 75 percent of Lyme disease cases are contracted in residential properties in the northeastern United States. Now available to homeowners in approved areas, the Maxforce Tick Management System is a new product developed to control ticks and reduce the risk of Lyme disease. The product attacks the root of the problem by treating the primary hosts of Lyme disease—thefield mouse, chipmunk and other rodents. This approach was developed by scientists from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and collaboration made it possible to produce this most effective product and bring it to the public. “Contrary to popular belief, small rodents, not deer, are primarily responsible for transmitting the Lymebacteria to ticks,” said Chuck Cole, product manager. “By treating the rodents, we get to the root of the problem and break the cycle of Lymedisease.” The Maxforce Tick Management System consists of small boxes that are placed around the perimeter of the home or building where ticks and rodents are abundant. Mice and chipmunks that have developed small territories are attracted inside the box, and they are then treated with a small doseof insecti- RK Te AY NYUPAYAY ELPA AYALA AYALA AYALA EAA AY APA Gy} 13 SIPs |e re 2 ea i ey 3 1 & a 8 i Rls The life stages and sizes of the deer tick (fxodus scapularis), which carries Lyme disease, from the larval stage to an engorged adult. cide. The active ingredient in the insecticide—fipronil—is also the active ingredient used in a leading tick control product for pets. In field trials of over 150 residential properties in 1999-2001, the Maxforce Tick Management System showed nearly an 80 percent reduction in the nymphal tick population after the first year and a 96 percent reduction over two years. The Maxforce Tick Management System is the newest and most unique weapon against Lyme disease and is available through licensed applicators. The product is approved for use by the EPA underthe provisions of Section 18 of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act. For more information, and to find a licensed professional in your area, visit www.MaxforceTMS.com or call 1-800-843-1702.
