Development of Innovative Aedes Larvae Control Technology for Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Prevention

Abstract

          Dengue hemorrhagic fever is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. This disease has been continuously spreading, resulting in health impacts, and incurring substantial costs for prevention, control, and patient care in Thailand. The main purposes of this study were to develop an innovation for mosquito larvae control with ultrasonic wave and to test the efficacy of mosquito larvae elimination for the prevention of dengue hemorrhagic fever.
          The research findings revealed that the innovation in controlling mosquito larvae using developed ultrasonic waves featured an elongated tube with a tapered end. The size was 146 x 908 cm, controlled by piezoelectric system and 12-volt battery. The ultrasonic wave detected the frequency range of 35.71 kHz.
          The results of the mosquito larvae control efficiency test was conducted on a sample group of 420 mosquito larvae, divided into groups of 60 each, placed in 3,000 milliliters of water. There were a total of 7 groups. Following that, each group was further subdivided into 3 sets, with 20 mosquito larvae placed in containers containing 1,000 milliliters of water. The test involved releasing ultrasonic waves at intervals of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 seconds, which were repeated three times. A 100% mortality rate of mosquito larvae was observed within a 30 second timeframe. The morphology of Aedes larvae was damaged through the destruction of their head, thorax, anal segment, and siphon. This study offers an eco-friendly alternative to reduce chemical use in limiting breeding grounds, which can serve as a vector for future disease outbreaks.