VATIS UPDATE Article

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Monash University, Australia, to conduct laboratory trials on a global vector-control method, whereby a naturally occurring bacteria is introduced into dengue virus-carrying mosquitoes to “inhibit” viral transmission. The efficacy of the disease-control method will be tested at Vector Control Research Centre (VCRC) in Puducherry before undertaking any field trial.

“Monash University came up with this strategy six years ago, when trials on introduction of Wolbachia bacteria in aedes aegypti mosquitoes, were conducted in Cairns in Australia. And, results were fine. “Besides Australia, we have partnered with a few other countries – Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia and Vietnam – where such methods are being used. It would now be tested in Indian environment,” said Scott O’Neill, at Monash University.

“As part of the MoU, now aedes agypti strain carrying Wolbachia bacteria is proposed to be imported to India from Monash University, which transfer technology to us at VCRC. We are setting up our labs there, meanwhile, as we are meeting formalities to get the strain imported,” said Soumya Swaminathan, at ICMR. Aedes agypti is one of the two main mosquito species which transmit dengue and chikungunya viruses. Delhi saw one of the worst outbreak of the vector-borne disease last year.