.

.

West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus Protection Plan

• Prevent bites.
• Prevent breeding.

Goal: Educate Rhode Islanders about how to protect themselves from mosquitoes.
Theme: The "Protect yourself!" message is the cornerstone for preventing human cases of West Nile Virus.
Strategy: Get the message out and repeat it in as many formats as possible, then reinforce it.

Formats:

• Media: All print, radio and TV outlets were visited in April and May, 2001. Both DEM and HEALTH directors and/or staff attended each meeting. Media were asked to assist with getting the personal protection message out. In return, DEM and HEALTH commited to keeping the media up to date with developments.

• Printed Materials: Posters, pins, stickers and palm cards with "Protect Yourself" message were made available in May, 2001. They were distributed to health providers, elderly service providers, community services providers and school nurse teachers.

• Family Health Information Line (1-800-942-7473) was activated to take WNV information calls in April, 2001.

• Health Web Site (www.health.ri.gov) has commonly asked questions and answers about West Nile Virus, related press releases from DEM and Health, and hyperlinks to other West Nile Virus web sites.