PSA: Ways to Avoid Mosquito Bites

Overview

This 60-second radio public service announcment raises awareness of the risk of West Nile virus, particularly for people 50 years and older. The radio spot gives the listener clear direction about how to avoid contracting West Nile virus.

This spot is a parody of the old TV detective series “Dragnet.” The detectives in the spot respond to a call concerning “mosquito biting.” As they arrive at the scene of the incident, their dialogue with the “victim” points out ways people can avoid mosquito bites and West Nile virus.

Audio

English Spanish

Script

Sound Effects
Script
Dragnet theme-type music

SUNDAY: This is Washington… I live and work here. I carry a badge.

My name is Sunday… Bob Sunday. (Spanish - I am detective Juna Ramirez.) My partner and I were working West Nile virus patrol when a call came in… it was a “mosquito biting.”
Theme-type music fades to ambient neighborhood noise as cops enter house

SUNDAY: Ma'am, I'm Sunday, this is my partner Shirley Deet.

VICTIM: I was just sitting here and this mosquito bit me!

SUNDAY: Did you take precautions?

VICTIM: What have I ever done to that mosquito?!

SUNDAY: Just the facts, ma'am.
Footsteps and rustling of clothing as Bob crosses the room

DEET: Bob, over here. See this? Standing water in this tire, no screen on the window.

SUNDAY: Standing water is the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. And not having screens on windows is an invitation for these hoodlums to fly in and bite.

VICTIM: (Gasps) I had no idea!

DEET: West Nile virus is spread by mosquitoes and can lead to serious medical problems for some people. Everyone can get it and it is much harder on people over 50.

SUNDAY: To avoid mosquito bites, wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts and use an effective mosquito repellent.

Fade out Dragnet theme-like music as narrator comes in for tag

DEET: Visit d-o-h dot w-a dot g-o-v or call (866) 78-VIRUS for more information.

NARRATOR: A message from the Washington State Department of Health. Always working for a safer and healthier Washington.DEET: Visit D-O-H dot W-A dot g-o-v or call (866) 78-VIRUS for more information.

NARRATOR: A message from the Washington State Department of Health. Always working for a safer and healthier Washington.