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Virginia Pest Management Firms Respond to the Threat of Mosquitoes |
West Nile virus now a health concern
nationwide
(Fredericksburg,
Virginia) - West Nile virus and other public health threats have
become an issue in Virginia and across the United States in recent years. Citizens are asking what they can do to
protect themselves, even in their own backyards.
To help address these concerns, the
Virginia Pest Management Association (VPMA), along with it's national partner,
the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) has developed a website at www.pestworld.com to provide consumers
with information about management and control of mosquito populations. In addition, www.pestworld.com has a referral service
of VPMA member companies for consumers needing a professional pest management
firm.
"West Nile virus poses a
significant threat to human health," says Brian
Delaney, president of VPMA.
"We've decided to offer mosquito prevention and control information to
help people safeguard themselves and their families."
According to the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), West Nile virus has now been identified
in every state in the continental U.S.
CDC statistics show that the death toll from West Nile was more than 120
people in the U.S. during 2007, with over 3600 human cases reported. In 2006,
177 human deaths attributable to WNV were reported.
"West Nile virus moved across the country,
probably much more rapidly than people thought it would," said Delaney. "It caught many people, including public
health officials, somewhat off-guard. We
are now better prepared to deal with this situation in a proactive manner."
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