The National Center for Disease Prevention and Control (CENAPRECE) is rolling out the Wolbachia Program in Los Cabos, aiming to cut dengue-transmitting mosquito populations by 60%. The move follows a sharp rise in dengue cases in the region.
The program also targets Zika and chikungunya by releasing mosquitoes carrying Wolbachia, a naturally occurring bacteria harmless to humans. When these mosquitoes breed with wild disease-carrying ones, the resulting offspring lose the ability to spread viruses.
“It’s already underway in La Paz and now expanding to Los Cabos,” said Rafael Valdez, CENAPRECE director. “It’s a long-term strategy. We expect to see results in about two years.”
Baja California Sur recorded 2,500 dengue cases in 2024, with 18 confirmed so far this year in Los Cabos. Authorities say these figures underscore the need for innovative control measures.
Wolbachia spreads naturally through mosquito populations and can sustain itself for years without further intervention. The World Mosquito Program (WMP) is implementing similar projects in Asia, Latin America, and Oceania, combining disease prevention with community engagement and local health system support.
“This approach replaces ‘bad’ mosquitoes with ‘good’ ones,” a CENAPRECE official said. “It’s gradual but effective.”
By limiting the insects’ ability to transmit viruses, the program aims to protect public health and curb outbreaks well into the future.
