BAEC develops Aedes mosquito controlling method

Scientists of Insect Biotechnology Division of Institute of Food and Radiation Biology of the Atomic Energy Research Establishment, BAEC, have developed an effective method of controlling aedes mosquitoes which transmits dengue virus.

Science and Technology Minister Architect Yeafesh Osman visited the laboratory at Savar today to monitor the various technical aspects of the method, said a press release.

Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC) Chairman Mahbubul Haque and Director General of the Atomic Energy Research Establishment Dr M Azizul Haque were present on the occasion, among others.

During the visit, the minister expressed satisfaction over the inventions and ordered that the procedure be taken to the field level soon. The minister gave an assurance of all kinds of cooperation on behalf of the ministry. Concerned scientists informed the minister that research activities on the application of Sterile Insect Techniques (SIT) method to eradicate dengue have already been completed.

In the SIT method, male Aedes mosquitoes are sterilized by applying gamma rays. If the mosquito is exposed to dengue outbreaks, it will meet with the existing female Aedes mosquito in nature so that no larvae can be matured, according to the release.

As the larvae are not fertilized, the number of mosquitoes starts to decrease. It is a very effective and internationally recognized method of controlling dengue outbreaks.

Besides, it is an environment friendly method, so it has no adverse effect on the environment.

In this way only infertile male mosquitoes will be exposed to nature. Since male mosquitoes are unable to carry the dengue virus, there is no chance of spreading dengue through it. Furthermore, male Aedes mosquitoes do not bite humans.

So, the Commission’s SIT method is able to play an effective role in controlling dengue outbreaks in the country.