China Battles Chikungunya Outbreak With Elephant Mosquitoes

story

AUG 8

Above: The Aedes aegypti mosquito. Image copyright: Wikimedia Commons

story last updated AUG 12

The Spin

Pro-government narrative

China's aggressive response shows decisive leadership in containing a dangerous outbreak. The innovative use of predatory mosquitoes and comprehensive public health measures demonstrates a combination of scientific innovation and proven pandemic strategies. Swift action prevents international spread.

The Telegraph XINHUA

Government-critical narrative

These heavy-handed tactics mirror authoritarian overreach from the PRC's zero-COVID policies, with forced home inspections and electricity cuts for non-compliance. This blanket mosquito eradication strategy is misguided, as most urban mosquitoes don't even carry the virus — making the approach both excessive and ineffective.

South China Morning Post