Mosquito-killing robot dogs to fight Chikungunya virus in Hong Kong

Hong Kong authorities are set to deploy robot dogs equipped with insecticide sprayers starting next month to combat the rising cases of the mosquito-borne Chikungunya virus. This initiative comes after nine imported cases were recorded locally and a significant outbreak in nearby Guangdong province. The robot dogs, capable of navigating difficult terrains like hillsides, aim to spray insecticides in hard-to-reach areas, thereby reducing the workload on frontline workers, especially during hot weather. If the trial is successful, the government plans to expand the use of these robotic dogs and continue researching innovative mosquito-control methods. These robotic dogs, developed by companies such as Boston Dynamics, integrate AI, cameras, and sensors to detect standing water and map mosquito breeding sites. They can analyze environmental data to predict high-risk areas, enabling targeted insecticide use that minimizes environmental impact. Additionally, Hong Kong is exploring other mosquito control strategies, including a WHO-recommended method involving bacteria introduced into mosquitoes to reduce their reproduction and virus transmission, with trials expected next