In our modern era, it seems like more and more of the things we produce are genetically modified. From our vegetables to the seeds we use to grow most of our crops, there are so many applications for gene manipulation. Technology is becoming so advanced in this field that scientists are beginning to apply gene modification techniques to real animals! Recently, a company called Oxitec has made headlines due to its plans to introduce millions of genetically modified mosquitoes in California. Why do people feel that such measures are necessary, though?

Mosquitoes are an incredibly annoying bug at best, and a genuine health threat at worst. Their bites are a huge nuisance, especially when you are trying to enjoy the outdoors, and they result in unsightly, itchy bumps that can remain for days. Furthermore, mosquitoes are increasingly capable of carrying dangerous diseases that are highly detrimental to human health. Zika virus, West Nile virus, and other mosquito-borne diseases are found in the U.S. today, and each can seriously damage your health. In tropical regions around the world, mosquitoes are the deadliest insect around, responsible for more than 1 million human deaths every year. With warming temperatures in the U.S., scientists are concerned that our part of the continent could become yet another breeding ground for mosquitoes and their dangerous diseases. At the moment, contracting a mosquito-borne disease in the U.S. is relatively rare, but this pattern could change in the future. Such concern is behind Oxitec’s decision to introduce GMO mosquitoes in California as well as Florida. Equipped with a special gene, each mosquito released by this company is male (males don’t bite) and will pass said gene onto their female offspring. The gene makes life impossible for females who receive the gene, meaning the population of biting mosquitoes will decrease.

However, don’t depend on this kind of process in the Northeast. Such measures have a lot of hoops to jump through, and mosquito control is already available!

Where to find Stony Brook mosquito control

Mosquitoes are here today, which means you can’t rely on treatments that seemingly come out of science fiction. At Mosquito Squad, we provide effective mosquito control that has received national recognition and has been trusted since 2005. Our barrier protection mist is guaranteed to reduce the mosquito population on your property by up to 90%, and biweekly treatments will keep you defended throughout the warmer months. Your health and happiness are of paramount importance. Let us defend them for you!

Genetically modified mosquitoes have been released in California and Florida to curb their numbers. However, your best bet for Stony Brook mosquito control lies with Mosquito Squad of Long Island. Give us a call at (631) 203-1252.