Earlier this year, Channel NewsAsia published a feature on how Singapore is combating rising dengue cases using Wolbachia technology (CNA, Feb 9, 2024). The article described how scientists release male Aedes mosquitoes infected with the Wolbachia bacterium, which prevents their offspring from surviving, and how this strategy is reducing dengue transmission without using harmful chemicals.
As someone interested in biomedical sciences, I found this approach fascinating because it merges ecology, microbiology, and public health. The article explained how researchers carefully track mosquito populations, run computer models, and partner with residents to monitor the impact. At my school, we did a project on vector-borne diseases, but seeing how these concepts play out in the real world made me appreciate the complexity of public health work.
The article also touched on the social side: winning over communities, addressing fears about “releasing more mosquitoes,” and explaining the science in simple terms. I learned that innovation isn’t just about discovery—it’s about communication and trust. Reading this, I realized that as a future scientist, I’ll need to work not only at the lab bench, but also out in society, listening, explaining, and building partnerships. Singapore’s Wolbachia project reminds me that science can be a force for good, but only if people are part of the process.
Clara Tan
- Singapore
- Female
- Year 10, Raffles Institution
- Intended Major: Biomedical Sciences
- Role: Science Editor
- Introduction:
Driven by curiosity and compassion, I love exploring the intersection of science and society. As Science Editor, I seek out stories that make complex research accessible and relevant. My goal is to contribute to medical breakthroughs and advocate for health equity through biomedical science.