Schneiderman Issues 'Cease and Desist' Letters to Stop Zika Prevention Scams

 

NEW YORK - Attorney General Eric Schneiderman today announced that his office issued cease and desist letters to seven companies that market products with claims that the products prevent or protect against Zika virus even though the products are known to be ineffective for that purpose. The letters demand that the companies selling these products stop advertising them as “Zika-protective” or “Zika-preventive.” The Attorney General also issued a consumer alert warning New Yorkers about the deceptive ads and directing them to evidence-based Zika prevention measures that have been recommended by public health authorities. Attorney General Schneiderman was joined for the announcement by NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett and State Senator Adriano Espaillat.

“New Yorkers are understandably concerned about Zika virus and looking for ways to protect themselves and their families,” Attorney General Schneiderman said. “Unfortunately, some companies are taking advantage of public concern about Zika to peddle products that simply don’t work. My office will not tolerate deceptive advertising of products that provide only a false sense of security against a real threat.” 

State Senator Adriano Espaillat said, “It is completely unacceptable for companies to deceive their customers, and it is particularly heinous when their deception could negatively impact the public's health.  I am proud to join Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman, a tireless consumer advocate, to tell these companies that we will not tolerate these practices in New York.”

“The only products that provide effective protection from mosquito bites contain DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and an insect repellent called IR3535 – all other products are a waste of money and may put you at risk of being bitten,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett. “We continue to remind women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant to not travel to a Zika-affected area – that includes most of Latin America and the Caribbean, and a neighborhood in Miami, Florida. Because of the risk of sexual transmission, partners of pregnant women should consider staying away from these areas, too.” 

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Source: The Office of Attorney General Eric Schneiderman