Genetic engineering isn’t just changing what’s in your food. A company called Oxitec has created a genetically engineered (GMO) mosquito, and they want to release millions of them into a community in the Florida Keys. The problem they’re trying to solve with these GMO bugs is real, but in this case, the cure might be as bad as the disease.
The Food and Drug Administration is asking for input right now on whether to approve this project. Tell them to reject GMO mosquitoes!
Why GMO Mosquitoes?
Local governments in places like the Florida Keys are always looking for ways to control mosquito populations, especially where mosquitoes spread disease. Oxitec’s GMO mosquito is intended to help prevent the spread of dengue fever. They’ve also proposed that their mosquitoes could help fight the Zika virus. The idea is that the offspring of the GMO mosquito will die, reducing overall populations.