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 on Saturday visited the laboratory at Savar to monitor the various technical aspects of the method, reports BSS quoting 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 his satisfaction over the inventions and ordered that the procedure be taken at the field level soon. The minister assured 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 sterilised 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 fertilised, the number of mosquitoes starts to decrease. It is a very effective and internationally recognised 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.
