inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government will release aedes aegypti mosquitoes containing wolbachia bacteria on October 4th, 2024.

The release of this special breed mosquito is intended to strengthen the dengue fever (DHF) control program in the area.

"Starting on October 4th, we will release the first Wolbachia-bearing Aedes aegypti in Kembangan District, West Jakarta," said Head of the DKI Jakarta Provincial Health Office, Ani Ruspitawati, on Thursday (9/25/2024).

Wolbachia is a natural bacteria that is found in several bugs, including aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The bacteria's ability to inhibit the reproduction of dengue virus in the mosquito's body makes it considered effective in preventing the spread of diseases such as dengue, zika, yellow fever and chikungunya.

Kadis Ani explained, with the release of this particular mosquito, the government hopes that it can strengthen the DHF control program in Jakarta.

She also explained that the activity was carried out based on the Decree of the Minister of Health (KMK) number 1341 concerning the use of Wolbachia bacteria as an innovation in controlling dengue.

Furthermore, West Jakarta has been chosen as the first location for the spread of Wolbachia mosquitoes as it is one of the areas with a high DHF cases compared to other areas in Jakarta.

Even though the mosquitoes have been released, Ani said that PSN (mosquito nest eradication) and other prevention efforts for the DHF are still vital.

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