Maker of Zicam announces efforts to help rhinoceros preservation

COLUMBUS, Ohio Matrixx Initiatives on Tuesday announced the launch of the “Save the Rhino; Not the Rhinovirus” consumer education campaign in partnership with wildlife expert Jack Hanna to help consumers better understand the common cold, while contributing to the preservation of one of the most endangered species on Earth; the rhinoceros.

With Hanna’s support, the campaign will feature media tours, an online consumer portal for obtaining more program information, and a national sweepstakes with an African safari in Kenya's Lewa Wildlife Conservancy as the grand prize. A portion of sales, a minimum of $30,000, will be donated to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and the Wilds rhinoceros conservation program at the end of the cold season.

“Zicam Cold Remedy is a unique product that is clinically proven to lessen the severity of symptoms and reduce the duration of the common cold when used within 48 hours of symptom onset,” stated Tim Connors, vice president, marketing, Matrixx. “We wanted a completely different type of program to help educate consumers about the common cold and to serve a higher purpose in preserving the rhinoceros, one of nature's most endangered and magnificent species. We are thrilled to work with an icon like Jack to help make our vision a reality.”

“My career and my passion have always been about wildlife conservation,” Hanna said. “I have a special place in my heart for the rhinoceros. In the wild, the adult black or white rhino has no true natural predators and, despite its size and antagonistic reputation, it is extremely easy to poach. I hope that the Zicam program gets more people involved in learning about wildlife preservation.”