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Snapshot 4:Fri, Aug 8, 2025 6:11:30 PM GMT last edited by Nick

China Battles Chikungunya Outbreak With Elephant Mosquitoes

China Battles Chikungunya Outbreak withWith Elephant Mosquitoes

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

The Spin

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.

TheThese heavy-handed tactics mirror authoritarian overreach from the PRC's zero-CovidCOVID 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.

Metaculus Prediction

There's a 10% chance that there will be a major naturally-originated pandemic by 2026, according to the Metaculus prediction community.


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