The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is about to give the thumbs up for releasing mosquitoes that have been genetically engineered. The intention behind this is to cause a reduction of the spread of the Zika virus.
According to Forbes, the mosquitoes will have a “specially inserted gene” that will kill their offspring and that this method has been successfully practiced in Brazil – a country where the Zika virus has been affecting populations the most.
The mosquito carrying the Zika virus is the Aedes Aegypti and also carries dengue fever. Usually, the review process would take longer over at the FDA but it seems they are hasty to get the mosquito out into the airs and seeing whether or not the mosquitoes can play a part in ending the Zika virus and preventing a breakout in the United States.
The genetically modified mosquito was engineered by an insect control company Oxitec and will call their modified insect the ‘OX513A Aedes aegypti’.
A statement released by Oxitec’s Chief Executive Officer, Hardyn Parry said: “We look forward to this proposed trial and the potential to protect people from Aedes aegypti and the disease it spreads.”
If the idea of a modified mosquito scares you and you’re not fond of the idea, you can submit your concern to the FDA at www.regulations.gov
