Alert Biting Back Against WestNile Virus (NAPSA)—The mosquitoes are astir and consumers are once again bracing for mosquito attacks. How can consumers avoid the itch as well as mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile virus? Cole Nelson, a mosquito control expert at Intermatic Inc., offers the following tips: 1. Consumers should deny mosquitoes the opportunity to enter a home by properly screening doors and windows. 2. During hot days, mosquitoes will rest in cool, damp shady areas around the home. Either use an Intermatic Malibu Inhibitor or spray with a residual insecticide periodically. All insecticides should be used in accordance with the directions. 3. Protect infants by using a carrier draped with mosquito netting with an elastic edge for a tight fit. 4. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothes to help prevent mosquitoes from reaching the skin and to retain less heat, making yourself less “attractive” to mosquitoes. es are more attracted to dark colors. 5. When possible, wear long sleeves and long pants. 6. Avoid perfumes, colognes, fragrant hair sprays, lotions and scented soaps, since the fragrances may attract mosquitoes. 7. Replace porch lights with yellow light bulbs that will attract fewer insects. 8. es breed in standing water. Empty all water from old tires, cans, jars, buckets, drums, plastic wading pools, toys and other containers. Clean clogged gutters. d Pa aes CL ce Enjoy outside activities while protecting against mosquitoes and the WestNile virus. 9. Remove the rim from potted plants and replace water in plant/flower vases weekly. 10. Replenish pet watering dishes daily and rinse bird baths twice weekly. Freedom—Taking Back Your Backyard without DEET Many families who don’t feel comfortable using DEET products are turning to other appealing alternatives. The Intermatic Malibu Inhibitor works by blocking a mosquito’s keen sense of smell. When humans and animals exhale, they give off carbon dioxide andother scents, which a mosquito can smell and use to identify a potential blood source. The inhibitors distribute a patented chemical through a nearly silent fan to help prevent mosquitoes from locating their prey. Not only are the products more effective than those using DEET, but they also are substantially more efficient than those using Citronella. The Malibu Inhibitors range in price from $9.99 to $29.99, and are available in solar and battery powered models at most retailers, home centers and do-it-yourself stores.
