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Millions of genetically modified mosquitoes could be set loose in Florida Keys

Posted at 8:41 AM, Jan 26, 2015
and last updated 2015-01-26 08:42:27-05

KEY WEST, Fla. — Millions of genetically modified mosquitoes could be released in the Florida Keys, according to the Associated Press.

The mosquitoes could be released if British researchers get approved to use them against two viral diseases, dengue and chikungunya.

The Florida Keys Mosquito Control District is waiting to hear if the Food and Drug Administration will allow them to run an experiment in Key West, according to the Associated Press.

Researchers said they want to see if the modified mosquitoes can suppress the population of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which spread the painful diseases.

Read full story: The Associated Press