Genetically Modified Mosquitoes Cleared for Florida Keys Release

Genetically engineered mosquitoes will be released in the Florida Keys in 2021 to try to reduce the population of a biting insect pest that spreads Zika, dengue fever, and yellow fever, local officials said Tuesday.

The 4-1 decision by the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District’s board was the last step needed for British biotech company Oxitec Ltd. to begin a long-planned trial in the island chain. Federal and state authorities approved the trial earlier this spring. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also plan to collaborate in the trial.

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