There are at least 400,000 dengue cases in the Philippines last year. An epidemic was declared after more than 600 people have died of the disease. And while there may be a decline in numbers this year, the government continues to remind the public to remain vigilant.

Dengue is one of the leading causes of deaths in some Asian and Latin American countries. Indeed it has become a global burden. Prevention of mosquito breeding is one of the best practice to combat this. Recently, I got invited to the launch of Natular DT- a powerful mosquito larvicide that immediately kills mosquito larvae. With Natular DT, preventing mosquitoes is as easy as plopping the tablet into the water, literally!

Here are the 5 things that you should know about Natular DT.

1. Natular DT contains Spinosad. Spinosad is an active ingredient derived from a naturally occurring soil organism. It was classified as a Reduced Risk pesticide and the only Reduced Risk larvicide for mosquito control by the US EPA.

2. How does it work? The Spinosad is a potent control agent. It alters the function of insect nicotinic acetylcholine receptors that causes continuous nerve impulses. This stimulation causes the death and paralysis of the larvae. This bi-layer tablet provides dual release action. The first layer dissolves in 60 seconds and can kill the larvae within 24 hours. The second layer dissolves overtime which is efficient up to 60 days in a 200-liter container.

3. IT IS SAFE. All formulations are made from ingredients found in EPA’s Minimal Risk List. It is safe for soil, water and animals. Aedes aegypti, the mosquito that spreads dengue fever, Zika and chikungunya, prefers to breed in wet containers like water vases, uncovered barrels and buckets ,ornamental fishponds, pools and fountains- yes, these are found inside our home and yards and we all can agree that we only prefer to use something that will be safe for the members of our family and our pets. It is worthy to know that Natular DT has also been evaluated by WHOPES (World Health Organization Pesticide Evaluation Scheme) for water container treatment in dengue control programs and is approved by the Drinking Water Quality working group for potable water.

4. It’s so simple to use. Discarding the water is still the best method for preventing mosquito breeding but for those that can’t be drained or are natural water standing sites/ containers, just use 1 Natular DT tablet (good for 200 L of water). As earlier mentioned, it’s as easy as plopping it in the water. No chemicals mixing involved- just put the tablet into the water container where the mosquitoes breed and wait for its active ingredient to do the job. Note: Tablets may be cut for use in smaller areas. Use 1/2 tablet per 100 L water container; 1/4 tablet for 50 L water container. It’s effective for 60 days. Should the water dries down, just water it again and it reactivates. Now isn’t that economical too?

5. It works on other mosquito species too. It doesn’t only control Aedes aegypti mosquito larvae, it has also been proven effective in 14 mosquito species.

One of DOH’s 4S strategy to help prevent dengue is ‘Search and destroy mosquito-breeding sites’. Natular DT, from UPL Limited Global and UPL Philippines Inc, can be powerful and effective in this. Walang Kiti-kiti, walang kati! Iwas dengue!