Florida releases genetically modified mosquitoes to reduce spread of disease
A pilot program intended to reduce the spread of deadly diseases such as dengue, yellow fever and the Zika virus
Reuters
May 16, 2021
A sign is seen outside a Florida Keys Mosquito Control District branch in Key Largo, Florida, U.S. May 4, 2021. PHOTO: REUTERS
Genetically modified mosquitoes have been released for the first time in the United States, taking flight in the Florida Keys in a pilot program intended to reduce the spread of deadly diseases such as dengue, yellow fever and the Zika virus.
After an odyssey spanning more than a decade to secure regulatory approval, British-based biotechnology firm Oxitec, along with the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District (FKMCD)launched the project in hope of reducing the Aedes aegypti species that spread the diseases.