Decision Over Genetically Modified ‘Frankenflies’ Divides Florida Voters
The genetically altered mosquitoes would potentially help control the spread of Zika, but some voters made their concerns known via a non-binding "straw poll."
Health News Florida:
Keys Voters Have Their Say On GMO Mosquitoes
An argument that has been taking place in Mosquito Control board meetings, hotel conference rooms and Facebook comment strings finally moved to the ballot box on Tuesday. With most of the vote in (32 of 33 precincts) the GMO mosquito question had split results. (11/9)
Kaiser Health News:
Genetically Engineered Mosquitoes Split A Straw-Poll Vote In The Florida Keys
Voters in one Florida county were at odds on a ballot referendum Tuesday about whether to allow the first trial of “Frankenflies” — mosquitoes genetically engineered to reduce populations of the species that spreads Zika. That species, the Aedes aegypti, lives in homes and is difficult to root out with insecticides. In addition to Zika, they spread yellow fever, dengue and chikungunya. In Key Haven, the town where the trial could be staged, more than 65 percent of voters rejected the plan. In Monroe County, which encompasses Key Haven, more than 57 percent of voters said yes to it. (Bluth and Kopp, 11/10)