Scientists release genetically modified mosquitoes to fight dengue in Brazil
Scientists in Brazil are releasing genetically modified mosquitoes into the environment to combat soaring cases of dengue fever in the country. More than 1 million cases of the viral, mosquito-spread infection have been reported in the first two months of this year — 226% more than were reported in the same period in 2023. Various cities are in states of emergency. For example, in February, Rio de Janeiro declared the outbreak a public health emergency after the city recorded more than 42,000 cases of the disease since the start of the year, according to the Associated Press . Almost half of the world's population lives in areas with a risk of dengue infection . In Brazil, the disease is endemic , meaning it is constantly circulating . Between 2003 and 2019, more than 11 million cases were reported in the country, with peak transmission normally occurring during the annual rainy season , from October to May. Unusually large outbreaks, however, occur roughly ev...