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August 23, 2016

Florida: Plan to Use GMO Mosquitoes to Fight Zika Sparks Controversy
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Meanwhile, in Key Haven, Florida, officials have sparked controversy
with a proposal to release genetically modified mosquitoes in efforts to
stop the potential spread of Zika. The genetically modified mosquitoes
have been altered to carry a gene that causes the offspring to die as
larva. The idea is to release the male genetically modified mosquitoes
into the wild, so they will mate with female mosquitoes. The proposal
has caused fierce opposition from local residents, who fear the
long-term health and environmental impacts. The proposal will appear as
a nonbinding referendum on the November ballot.


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