Health Ministry turning to drones to combat aedes mosquitoes

MELAKA: The Ministry of Health intends to extend the use of drone technology at state health departments nationwide in an effort to combat Aedes mosquitoes and control dengue outbreaks.

Its minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the use of drone technology was seen to help detect Aedes mosquitoes more effectively, especially in areas where it was difficult to gain access especially at high points including rooftops.

He said based on preliminary information, the allocation to purchase the drones could be sought through the ministry through provisions in Budget 2019.

“I admit that the use of drones to detect the Aedes mosquito breeding grounds is something new and the device can be purchased at RM20,000 per unit.

“I am confident that with the additional allocation provided for the Health Ministry, the state health departments should be able to afford the drones,” he told reporters after officiating the Gotong-Royong Mega 2.0 programme to fight against Aedes mosquitoes here yesterday.

Over 300 volunteers comprising students, members of the Civil Defence Force, Malaysian Volunteers Department and Hang Tuah Jaya Municipal Council worked together to clean up the housing area at Taman Saujana Seksyen, Bukit Katil here.

Also present were Chief Minister Adly Zahari and Melaka Health and Anti-Drug Committee chairman Low Chee Leong.

Meanwhile, Dr Dzulkefly said dengue cases in the country had reduced to 62,974 cases or by 17 per cent during Jan 1 to Nov 3, from 76,054 cases in the corresponding period last year.

He said dengue death toll too has recorded a decline from 108 cases or 33 per cent this year compared to 162 cases in the corresponding period last year.

“In Melaka the number of dengue cases reported in the corresponding period this year saw a decrease by 58 per cent to 547 cases compared to 1,290 cases last year. — Bernama