The release of Wolbachia mosquitoes in Bali, which was planned by the World Mosquito Program, has been postponed indefinitely due to the need for more socialization and communication. Acting Governor Sang Made Mahendra Jaya emphasized the importance of engaging with the community and avoiding division. The Ministry of Health will now be conducting its own comprehensive study to assess the viability of the Wolbachia program in Bali.
The concern raised by residents and tourists is one of the main reasons for the delay. The Ministry of Health will investigate the potential impacts and risks of the program. While the World Mosquito Program has received regulatory approval from relevant government bodies in all countries where they release Wolbachia mosquitoes, the concerns raised by the community necessitate additional studies.
Mayor I Gusti Ngurah Jaya Negara of Denpasar and Regional Secretary Dewa Made Indra confirmed that they too will wait for the Ministry of Health’s report before supporting any further releases. The decision to postpone is a cautious approach that prioritizes scientific evidence and community safety.
In the meantime, the number of dengue fever cases in Bali is increasing. Medical teams in Tabanan Regency have recorded a significant rise in dengue cases. The Disease Prevention and Control Division of the Tabanan Health Service is actively working to prevent the spread of dengue fever through health promotions and fogging in affected areas.
As the monsoon season approaches, the risk of dengue fever on the island of Bali becomes more pronounced. To mitigate this risk, the World Health Organization recommends simple preventive measures such as wearing loose-fitting clothes, using mosquito nets and window screens, and applying mosquito repellent.
FAQ
Q: What is the purpose of releasing Wolbachia mosquitoes in Bali?
A: The release of Wolbachia mosquitoes aims to reduce the number of dengue fever cases on the island.
Q: Why has the release of Wolbachia mosquitoes been postponed?
A: The release has been postponed to allow for more socialization and communication with the community and to address concerns raised by residents and tourists.
Q: What will the Ministry of Health study investigate?
A: The Ministry of Health study will examine the effectiveness of the Wolbachia program in reducing dengue fever cases and assess the potential risks associated with the program.
Q: How is the Tabanan Health Service working to prevent dengue fever?
A: The Tabanan Health Service is engaging in health promotions and fogging in areas with dengue fever cases to prevent the spread of the disease.
Q: What preventive measures can individuals take to reduce the risk of contracting dengue fever in Bali?
A: The World Health Organization recommends wearing loose-fitting clothes, using mosquito nets and window screens, and applying mosquito repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or IR3535. Additionally, using coils or vaporizers can help repel mosquitoes.