Why in NEWS
Andhra Pradesh has introduced the Smart Mosquito Surveillance System (SMoSS), a tech-based initiative using AI, drones, and IoT to monitor and control mosquito populations efficiently and reduce the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.
Key Concepts & Terms
| Term | Explanation |
|---|---|
| SMoSS | Smart Mosquito Surveillance System using AI, drones, and IoT for mosquito tracking |
| IoT Devices | Internet-connected sensors that gather and send mosquito and weather data |
| AI-Powered Sensors | Devices that can identify mosquito species, gender, and density in real time |
| Targeted Spraying | Spraying done only where mosquito levels exceed safe limits |
| Larvicide Spraying | Killing mosquito larvae before they become adults using drones |
News Details
SMoSS uses AI sensors, drones, and real-time dashboards to detect mosquito density and species.
It enables smart alerts when thresholds are crossed, prompting timely fogging and larvicide spraying. Drones reduce operational costs and improve accuracy.
The system is monitored by expert agencies, and actions are tracked via mobile apps to ensure transparency and accountability.
In a Nutshell
SMoSS = Smart + Mosquito + Surveillance = Real-time Disease Control
Common Mosquito-Borne Diseases
| Disease | Vector | Key Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Zika Virus | Aedes aegypti | Causes birth defects like microcephaly in newborns |
| Dengue | Aedes aegypti | No treatment; high fever, severe pain; 2.3 lakh+ cases in India (2024) |
| Yellow Fever | Aedes aegypti | Can cause jaundice, organ failure; 17D vaccine is available |
| Chikungunya | Aedes aegypti | Causes sudden fever, severe joint pain; no specific treatment |
Prelims Practice Questions
- What is the primary technology used in Andhra Pradesh’s SMoSS initiative?
A. Satellite Imaging
B. Blockchain
C. Artificial Intelligence
D. Virtual Reality - Which of the following diseases is not spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito?
A. Zika
B. Malaria
C. Yellow Fever
D. Dengue - The yellow in Yellow Fever refers to:
A. Skin rashes
B. High fever
C. Yellowing of skin and eyes due to jaundice
D. A symptom unique to children
Prelims Answer Key
| Qn | Answer | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | C | SMoSS is based on AI-powered sensors and IoT-enabled devices |
| 2 | B | Malaria is spread by Anopheles mosquitoes, not Aedes aegypti |
| 3 | C | Yellow fever leads to jaundice—yellowing of skin and eyes |
