Publication Type

Journal Article

Version

publishedVersion

Publication Date

9-2025

Abstract

Project Wolbachia is a vector control method that releases male Wolbachia-infected Aedes mosquitoes to curb dengue transmission in Singapore. While research has primarily focused on its efficacy, few studies have examined public opinion. This study draws upon the cognitive miser model and scientific literacy model to examine the factors shaping public support for Project Wolbachia. A nationally representative door-to-door survey was conducted in Singapore (N = 1,000) using multi-stage stratified random sampling. Our findings revealed that while knowledge about Project Wolbachia explains public support, laypeople may often rely on cognitive shortcuts, such as value predispositions, media attention, and pre-existing perceptions, when evaluating novel technologies. Moreover, environmental concern and benefit perception significantly moderated the effects of Wolbachia knowledge on public support for the project. These insights suggest that public health agencies should emphasize Project Wolbachia’s health benefits and minimal environmental risks in their communications to enhance public acceptance.

Keywords

Wolbachia, public support, dengue, cognitive miser model, value predisposition

Discipline

Asian Studies | Public Health

Research Areas

Integrative Research Areas

Publication

Environmental Communication

First Page

1

Last Page

19

ISSN

1752-4032

Identifier

10.1080/17524032.2025.2565005

Publisher

Taylor and Francis Group

Copyright Owner and License

Authors

Additional URL

https://doi.org/10.1080/17524032.2025.256500

Download

Share

COinS