COLUMBUS: The state is offering grants to community health departments and related public entities to help control mosquitoes and the viruses they carry.
The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency says the funds will be made available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The agency wants to see local-government grants help reduce the spread of viruses such as Zika, West Nile and La Cross Encephalitis. State agencies can also sponsor multiple private-sector businesses or nonprofit organizations on grant applications.
Grants will be awarded based on available funds.
The money can be used for mosquito surveillance; larval control; adult mosquito control, such as spraying; community outreach; and reduction of breeding sources, such as old tires and trash.
The first round of grant applications is due May 15, the second round May 31.