Dengue fever cases in Singapore fall to lowest level in 7 years
Singapore recorded a remarkable health milestone at the end of 2025, with dengue fever cases falling to their lowest level in seven years, reflecting the success of national strategies in combating mosquito-borne diseases in this tropical nation.
Promising figures and statistics
According to official data from Singapore's National Environment Agency (NEA), only 3,990 cases of dengue fever were reported as of December 26, 2025. This represents a dramatic decrease of nearly 70% compared to 2024, which saw 13,651 cases. This is the lowest number of cases since 2018, when 3,282 cases were recorded. Furthermore, only four deaths were reported this year, a positive indicator compared to previous years, which saw more widespread outbreaks.
Project Wolpancia: Singapore's biological weapon
The agency attributed this significant success partly and primarily to the expansion of Project Wolbachia. This innovative scientific initiative involves releasing male Aedes aegypti mosquitoes that have been bred in a laboratory and injected with Wolbachia bacteria. When these males mate with wild females, they produce eggs that do not hatch, leading over time to a dramatic reduction in disease-carrying mosquito populations without the use of chemical pesticides harmful to the environment or humans.
Environmental context and climate challenges
This decline is particularly significant when considering Singapore's geography and climate. As a tropical country with a hot and humid climate year-round, Singapore is an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes. Climate change and rising global temperatures typically lead to increased insect populations and disease transmission, making Singapore's success in reversing this trend a remarkable achievement.
A global model in public health
Singapore's efforts are not limited to biotechnology; they are complemented by a rigorous system of health monitoring and community engagement. Singapore is known for imposing hefty fines on homes and businesses that leave stagnant water to breed mosquitoes, as well as for its ongoing public awareness campaigns known as "Mozzie Wipeout." This Singaporean success is seen as a model for other countries in Southeast Asia and tropical regions around the world that are endemic to dengue fever, demonstrating that combining scientific technology, community awareness, and government oversight can achieve tangible results in protecting public health.
