Hong kong: A senior Hong Kong official has announced that the regional government is considering deploying "elephant mosquitoes" to control the spread of chikungunya fever. These mosquitoes are unique as they feed on the larvae of other mosquitoes instead of blood, potentially reducing the population of disease-spreading mosquitoes.

According to Anadolu Agency, Environment and Ecology Secretary Tse Chin-wan discussed this strategy on an RTHK radio program. He noted that a similar approach has been implemented in Foshan, Guangdong province, China, where a mosquito-borne disease outbreak has been reported. Tse mentioned that the plan would involve releasing a significant number of elephant mosquitoes. He also highlighted the existing use of mosquito-eating fish in Hong Kong, which are effective in areas with many ponds.

Hong Kong recently recorded its sixth imported case of chikungunya fever, prompting concerns about a potential local outbreak. Tse stated that the feasibility of releasing a large number of elephant mosquitoes in Hong Kong is under consideration.

Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease that has seen a rise in cases globally, with approximately 240,000 reported since the start of the year. The virus has been detected in 16 countries across the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe, leading to 90 deaths. Guangdong province in southern China has reported nearly 8,000 cases this year, making it the most affected region in Asia.