Anti Dengue Drones

Mosquitoes rank among the most perilous pests globally, whether it's their annoying high-pitched buzz or the serious viruses they carry. In a nation heavily affected by these insects, a Brazilian company, which has previously utilized drone technology for agricultural purposes and pest control, is now trialing the use of drones to address mosquito-borne diseases.

Dengue and Zika are arbivoral viruses whose primary vectors are the mosquitoes Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, which thrive in stagnant or slow-moving water. Identifying and managing these potential breeding sites is crucial in curbing the transmission of the diseases. 

Although initially engineered for applying biological pest agents to crops and introducing pest-killing insects, the technology has potential applications in urban settings to mitigate disease-carrying insects. This revolutionary technology was developed by BirdView, a Brazilian startup, in collaboration with EMBRAPA Instrumentation, a wing of the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation. Having received support from the government and recognition worldwide, the mechanism is currently under testing by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

The technology aims to utilize drones for detecting breeding sites. This detection process will unfold in two stages. Initially, drones will survey areas requiring closer scrutiny from an altitude of approximately 300 meters. Subsequently, drones will visit these identified waypoints. When approaching a suspected breeding site, the drone's task is to ascertain whether the water presents conditions conducive to breeding and whether mosquito larvae are present. Upon detecting a breeding site with mosquito larvae, public health authorities and building owners will be promptly notified to facilitate its removal.