Scientists and volunteers in Busia, Kenya are collaborating to combat the growing threat of mosquitoes, which are causing a surge in mosquito-borne diseases. In recent years, progress made against mosquitoes has been reversed, with insecticides losing their effectiveness and the emergence of new mosquito species carrying diseases like dengue and chikungunya.

The advent of climate change has played a significant role in the spread of these dangerous mosquitoes to regions where they were not previously found. Efforts to combat them have been further impeded by high costs and slow regulatory processes surrounding the development of new solutions, including genetically modifying mosquitoes.

Malaria cases and deaths have increased in recent years, mirroring the rise of other mosquito-borne diseases. Mosquitoes, known for their adaptability, have grown resistant to insecticides, while the parasites they carry have developed resistance to malaria drugs. Urgent action is needed to protect against all mosquitoes and find new methods of intervention, but the development and implementation of these solutions require time and funding.

Unfortunately, funding for mosquito control efforts has stagnated, and researchers are struggling to secure enough support for large-scale trials of new methods. Moreover, mosquitoes in Kenya have altered their behavior, now biting outdoors and during the daytime instead of indoors and at night.

The effectiveness of current insecticides is decreasing as mosquitoes evolve resistance to them. This has prompted scientists to search for new compounds that can kill mosquitoes in different ways. However, the process of developing and testing new insecticides is both expensive and lengthy, as the World Health Organization requires rigorous evidence before recommending their use.

Interestingly, the emergence of mosquito-borne diseases in middle- and high-income countries could potentially attract new funding and corporate investment for research and development. Nonetheless, critics argue that focusing on environmental management and implementing changes in housing, similar to strategies employed in the past, could have a greater long-term impact on mosquito control.

Despite the potential effectiveness of these new interventions in reducing malaria cases and improving public health, significant challenges remain in convincing regulatory bodies and governments to endorse and invest in them. Nonetheless, urgent action is required to address the mosquito threat and safeguard public health.