Health + Tech | Climate-sensitive tech and vector-borne diseases

Every year during the rainy season, there is an increase in the mosquito population. As a result, Jamaica faces significant public health challenges, partly due to its tropical climate. The island’s warm temperatures and high humidity create ideal conditions for the proliferation of vector-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika and chikungunya.

A 2018 study, titled ‘Global and regional disease burden attributable to vector-borne diseases’ by Murray et al, published in the journal Nature, highlighted that “vector-borne diseases, primarily transmitted by mosquitoes, are responsible for more deaths annually than any other animal group … . In addition [to premature mortality and disability], vector-borne diseases impose a significant burden on health systems and economies.”

Advances in climate-sensitive health technologies are now playing a crucial role in managing and mitigating these risks. The use of innovative technologies can further enhance mosquito surveillance and control efforts. Geographic information systems and remote sensing can be employed to map mosquito-breeding sites and monitor their distribution. By integrating climate data with mosquito population models, health authorities can predict and target interventions more effectively and efficiently.

Our mosquito-control programme currently uses environmentally friendly larvicides that target mosquito larvae before they mature into adults. Adulticides, including insecticides, are used strategically to reduce adult mosquito populations. Technologies such as the AutoDispenser System can automatically release larvicides into identified breeding sites, ensuring consistent and effective application. Such a system would be particularly useful in Jamaica and similar tropical countries that have significant mosquito-borne disease challenges.

The AutoDispenser System is equipped with automated mechanisms to release larvicides into mosquito-breeding sites. The automation reduces the need for manual application and ensures consistent dosing. It can be programmed to release the appropriate amount of larvicide based on the size and characteristics of the breeding site, helping to avoid overuse or underuse of the chemical.

REMOTE MONITORING

Many AutoDispenser Systems include remote monitoring capabilities. This allows for real-time tracking of the dispenser’s status, including the amount of larvicide remaining and the frequency of dispensing. Monitoring data can be used to optimise the system’s performance and manage resources more effectively. The dispensers are built to withstand environmental conditions, including rain and high temperatures. This durability ensures that the system remains effective throughout its deployment.

The AutoDispenser System can be integrated into broader vector-control strategies. It complements other control methods, such as adulticide spraying and biological control, by targeting the early stages of mosquito development. The remote monitoring features provide valuable data on larvicide use and mosquito populations, which can be used to adjust and improve vector-control strategies.

In recent years, several vector-control innovations have been used as part of efforts to reduce the mosquito population. One promising technology involves the release of genetically modified mosquitoes that are engineered to reduce the population of disease-carrying mosquitoes. For example, the release of male mosquitoes carrying a self-limiting gene can help suppress the mosquito population over time.

In addition, tools and apps that provide real-time data on weather patterns, mosquito activity, and disease outbreaks are crucial for adapting public health strategies to changing climatic conditions. For instance, mobile health applications can alert individuals about high-risk periods for vector-borne diseases and recommend preventive measures as part of awareness campaigns. These include:

• Dengue Tracker, which is a mobile health application designed to monitor and provide information on dengue fever outbreaks. It leverages real-time data and predictive analytics to inform users about high-risk areas and periods.

• My Mosquito Control, a mobile application focused on managing and controlling mosquito populations. It offers a range of features to help users reduce their risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

• The World Mosquito Program (WMP) app supports the global initiative aimed at controlling mosquito-borne diseases through innovative strategies. The app is designed to provide users with critical information and updates related to vector control efforts.

Continued research and investment in climate-sensitive health technologies will be essential in combating vector-borne diseases in Jamaica. Collaboration between government agencies, research institutions, and international organisations can drive innovation and ensure the implementation of effective solutions.

Doug Halsall is the chairman and CEO of Advanced Integrated Systems. Email feedback to doug.halsall@gmail.com and editorial@gleanerjm.com.