US EditionWe Finally May Be Able to Rid the World of Mosquitoes. But Should We?
- Scientists have developed gene-editing methods to potentially eradicate disease-carrying female mosquitoes worldwide.
- This effort responds to the high global death toll from mosquito-borne diseases like malaria, which killed nearly 600,000 people in 2023, mostly in Africa.
- Key techniques include genetically modified males spreading infertility genes and fungal infections that reduce female mosquito lifespans, aiming to crash populations locally.
- Experts note risks and ethical concerns, stating eradication is a 'herculean undertaking' and stress that extinction should be rare and cautiously considered, while some advocate for transformative disease reduction.
- If successful, genetic mosquito suppression could save millions of lives but requires ongoing innovation as mosquitoes adapt and raise complex ecological and moral questions.
14 Articles
14 Articles
The calendar summer has begun, and outdoor gatherings are already being spoiled by mosquitoes. Who do they prefer to choose as their victim? Are these really people with blood type O? And what factors influence the frequency of bites?
Health officials sound alarm as 'deadliest animal on the planet' spreads across southern US — here's what you need to know
Officials in Texas have sounded the alarm after recent storms left prime breeding conditions just in time for peak mosquito season, the Austin American-Statesman reported. Local experts are particularly concerned about the spread of mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile and Zika. What's happening? Already facing an uphill battle as rising global temperatures expand peak mosquito season beyond its traditional dates, Texas officials in charge of…
Sydney Morning Herald
We finally may be able to rid the world of mosquitoes – but should we?
The mozzie is the deadliest animal on Earth and scientists now have the tools to potentially zap it from existence, but some warn of the hidden dangers of doing so.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 60% of the sources lean Left
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
Ownership
To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage
