750 million genetically modified mosquitoes are about to be set free into the Florida Keys between 2021 and 2022, as authorities received the green light from the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) for this trial project.
This pilot project’s purpose is to reduce the rates of mosquito-borne diseases (dengue and yellow fever) by minimizing the spraying of insecticides. The researchers want to be able to analyze and control Aedes aegypti, which is a type of mosquito that carries illnesses like Zika, chikungunya, and dengue, and others.
However, many local residents and environmental advocacy groups are worried about this trial project.
