Insecticides are becoming resistant over the period, global warming knocking the door of more people being exposed to Dengue, Chikungunya and Zika virus (and other Vector-borne diseases (VBD)) across the world. Controlling mosquitoes in alternative techniques is a timely demand. Wolbachia had shown remarkable success (although in only few countries so far) for controlling dengue virus. If the technology can be used for other Aedes-borne diseases (Chikunguny, Zika) this will be a remarkable step for controling VBDs.
Any update in this area?
According to the World Mosquito Program, the Wolbachia method is effective in reducing the transmission of Zika and chikungunya viruses as well as dengue (http://www.eliminatedengue.com/our-research). They are already testing and/or deploying in 12 countries, and their website has further progress information and research publications.
Wolbachia is the most effective methods of any arboviral disease control. It can block the ovarial transmission of the diseases which inhibit the disease longevity from mother to the next generation of the vector, Aedes mosquito. This technology is currently being confirmed to be effective in controlling vector borne diseases like Chikungunya fever.
Dear Claire Styles and Abate Waldetnsai -- thank you both for the informative response. All the videos or publication I saw before was use of Wolbachaia for control of Dengue virus only. BUT WMP mentioned the technology is equally effective for other arbovirus as well including Zika, Chikungunya and Yellow fever. Thanks!
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