This spring the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) sounded a warning that the Zika virus could be ‘Scarier than we initially thought.’ Many local governments are working to control mosquitoes that spread the virus by encouraging community members to remove objects that retain water and other items where mosquitoes are prone to lay eggs such as old tires, buckets, planters, toys, bird baths, flower pot saucers and roadside trash. The City of Bristol has developed an educational campaign to assist with informing the public on the Zika front.
“It is important for everyone, from children to our older citizens, to be aware of the virus and work to control the threat through either mosquito eradication or methods to protect yourself against mosquito bites,” said Bill Sorah, City Manager.
The City is providing coloring books and crayon packets to be distributed to Bristol, TN children’s day care centers. “The coloring books were provided by the CDC. These coloring books will offer an interactive way for day care personal and parents to talk to children about how mosquito bites can make you sick,” said Terrie Talbert, Director of Community Relations for the City.
The City, in partnership with K-VAT Food Stores, Inc. /Food City, will provide City employees who work in the field with a 6 ounce can of insect repellent along with a card that will provide tips for protecting oneself against mosquito bites while working.
The City has an area on its website dedicated to educational information on the Zika virus. “We have Frequently Asked Questions, a map that outlines where reported cases of the virus have been confirmed by the CDC and a complete page on how to protect you and others from mosquito bites,” said Talbert.
