If you’re worried about getting dengue in Singapore, or just worried about the mosquitoes around your work or home, Rentokil has a safe solution that only affects the mosquito breeding cycle and doesn’t harm other insects. Here, they share their views on current dengue clusters in Singapore, and how their novel mosquito trap, the In2Care system, works.
Are you living in a dengue cluster in Singapore?
Singapore has reported over 6,300 dengue cases this year. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), there are an estimated 100 to 400 million dengue infections occurring each year globally. Dengue remains a significant public health concern in Singapore, marked by periodic outbreaks.
Read on for the reasons behind the prevalence of dengue in Singapore, shedding light on the timing of these outbreaks and the factors that contribute to its persistence.
Why is dengue prevalent in Singapore?
#1 Tropical climate
Singapore’s hot and humid tropical climate provides the ideal breeding ground for the Aedes mosquito, the primary vector responsible for transmitting the dengue virus. These mosquitoes thrive in stagnant water, which is abundant in Singapore’s climate. The high temperatures accelerate their breeding cycle, which can be as short as one week under optimal conditions.
#2 Persistent mosquito breeding
Dr Borame Sue Lee Dickens from NUS’s Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health points out two key factors influencing dengue prevalence. These are ongoing mosquito breeding due to environmental features and the insufficient removal of breeding sites. These issues apply to all types of residential areas in Singapore.
#3 Virus serotypes
There are four different dengue virus “serotypes” (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4). Once an individual is infected with one serotype, they develop immunity to it. However, subsequent infections with different serotypes can lead to more severe forms of dengue, such as dengue haemorrhagic fever. The co-circulation of multiple serotypes in Singapore increases the risk of severe dengue cases.
Current dengue clusters in Singapore
Dengue cases typically increase during the wetter, rainier months, as the conditions create ideal breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes. Historically, dengue outbreaks have been more common from June to October, corresponding to the warmer and rainier periods.
For the week ending 14 October 2023, there were 215 reported cases of dengue – 52 fewer cases than the previous week. Among these, there were 53 active dengue clusters. Of these, nine were considered “red alert” clusters, meaning they had 10 or more cases each. Notably, persistent dengue transmission was found at the 111-case cluster at Club Street, the 83-case cluster at Lentor Loop, and the 46-case cluster at Cardiff Grove. The 60-case cluster at Eng Kong Road was considered closed.
Eradicating outdoor mosquitoes, from larvae to adults
When it comes to properties, especially those in sprawling compounds or with outdoor spaces like gardens and car porches, the strategic placement of outdoor mosquito traps is a paramount necessity. The lush foliage and vibrant vegetation of these areas can inadvertently create sheltered spots and potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes due to their shade, rather than the insects being primarily drawn by carbon dioxide (CO2).
Furthermore, heightened human activity during the daytime, along with the warmth and lactic acid emitted from our bodies, ignites the mosquito’s interest even further. The insects will initially seek shade for resting. Female mosquitoes on the hunt for a blood meal will then actively approach a warm-blooded host when they detect the presence of CO2 or a heat signature.
About the In2Care mosquito trap
Protecting yourself and your family from diseases like dengue is obviously a top priority. To this end, Rentokil has introduced In2Care, a smart and innovative solution designed to safeguard the home and those who live there.
In2Care operates on a simple yet highly effective methodology. It targets mosquitoes where they breed and aims to interrupt their life cycle. Here’s how it works:
#1 Attracting female mosquitoes
The trap lures female mosquitoes, which are responsible for diseases like dengue, to lay their eggs inside it.
#2 Transmission of insect growth regulator
When a mosquito enters the trap, it encounters a potent insect growth regulator. This regulator prevents the larvae from maturing into adult mosquitoes, and it adheres to the female mosquito, contaminating it. It’s essential to note that the regulator’s primary function is to impede the larvae’s development, rather than killing the eggs.
#3 Transporting the insect growth regulator
The contaminated mosquito then unknowingly carries the insect growth regulator as it flies to other breeding spots.
#4 Impact on new breeding sites
When the contaminated mosquito lays eggs at new sites, she spreads the larvicide. This disrupts the growth of mosquito larvae, stopping them from becoming adults.
#5 Weakening the infected mosquito
The insect growth regulator functions as what’s known as an entomopathogenic fungus, slowing down dengue replication within the mosquito and ultimately leading to its demise.
Why does In2Care stand out?
Why does In2Care stand out?- Eco-friendly: Unlike traditional mosquito control methods that rely on chemical insecticides harmful to the environment. In2Care uses safe ingredients and specific methods that only affect mosquitoes, not helpful insects like pollinators.
- Resistance management: It’s effective against insecticide-resistant mosquitoes, providing reliable protection.
- Continuous protection: In2Care offers 24/7 protection, ensuring consistent mosquito control.
Rentokil Singapore has 59 years of expertise as the leading pest control company in the region, providing swift, safe and effective pest control solutions tailored to your needs and utilising innovative technologies. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, it’s a good idea to shield your premises with a Rentokil In2Care mosquito trap.
Fill in this form or call to get a quote on 6347 8138.
Written in collaboration with rentokil.com.sg
