University scientists are preparing to test a new mosquito-control device in Barbados while exploring another biological approach that has significantly reduced dengue infections and hospitalisations in overseas trials, Barbados TODAY can reveal.

Researchers at the Centre for Biosecurity Studies at The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill are hoping to begin field trials of the lethal ovitrap as soon as possible, as they look at alternatives to the heavy reliance on chemicals to control disease-carrying mosquitoes.

The ovitrap is a dark container containing water and fitted with mesh and a surface on which mosquitoes can lay their eggs.