KACST And University Of Melbourne Innovate With Smart Traps To Combat Dengue Fever In Jeddah

A pioneering study in the MENA region has been conducted by a joint research team from King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and the University of Melbourne. This study focuses on using eco-friendly smart biological traps to reduce mosquito populations that transmit dengue fever in Jeddah's hot, dry climate. The initiative is part of KACST's ongoing efforts to combat vector-borne diseases with sustainable technologies.

The research employed "In2Care" smart traps, an advanced system designed for mosquito control. These traps use two safe mechanisms: one prevents larvae from maturing into mosquitoes, while the other targets adult mosquitoes. They are integrated with digital monitoring tools and artificial intelligence for automated control. The study aimed to assess these traps' effectiveness under Jeddah's climatic conditions as a sustainable alternative to chemical insecticides.

Field tests demonstrated that the smart trap technology effectively halted mosquito reproduction at treated sites, preventing new adult mosquitoes from emerging. This success highlights the system's powerful and long-lasting effects in controlling mosquito populations. The study has garnered significant attention from the international research community due to its scientific importance in advancing methods to combat mosquito-borne diseases.

KACST aims to expand the application of these smart traps by integrating them with existing Wolbachia-based strategies. This integration seeks to achieve rapid and effective results in reducing dengue fever spread in Jeddah. The full study is accessible online for those interested in detailed findings.

This initiative is part of KACST’s National Laboratory efforts to develop sustainable biotechnologies that protect public health and promote environmental sustainability. These efforts align with Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes human health through qualitative research and innovation in medical technologies, aiming to enhance quality of life and establish a sustainable health system.

The study was published on the cover of the 2025 Journal of Medical Entomology by Oxford University Press, underscoring its significance. It reflects KACST's commitment to advancing research that supports disease prevention and contributes to a knowledge-based health system.

With inputs from SPA