Florida has Green Light to release Genetically Modified Mosquitoes

Florida has had clearance to release genetically modified mosquitoes in the hope that this action can help fight against the Zika virus. With the number of cases on the rise in the Sunshine State, particularly in Miami this battle tactic has been of some debate. Here’s an article with more information.

Florida cleared to release genetically modified mosquitoes in Zika fight

A release of genetically engineered mosquitoes that it is hoped could help combat the spread of the Zika virus has been approved in Florida by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).  On Thursday, Florida officials said the same species of mosquito had transmitted 15 Zika infections in the Wynwood neighborhood of Miami, the first cases to be caused by mosquitoes in the mainland US.

It’s understood that this is to help fight this debilitating mosquito borne virus, but just what impact is it having on the environment?

The following article describes that “any toxic or allergenic effects in humans caused by the GMO mosquitoes would likely be negligible” and so being given the ‘green light’ to proceed has come at the right time. Especially with the media attention of the Olympic Games and the threat of the Zika virus in Brazil.

Crushing Zika via genetically modified mosquitoes

With the Olympic games under way in Zika-ravaged Brazil and the United States’ first locally transmitted Zika cases now confirmed, a biotechnology company is looking to take a bite out of the Zika crisis — by deploying armies of genetically modified mosquitoes.

Whether we agree with the steps being taken or not, we can all contribute to this fight by taking mosquito control measures in our own homes and protecting ourselves and our families.