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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Julia Musto

FORGOTTEN HISTORY: Why 600 000 mosquitoes are being deployed around washington dc - The Untold Story

DC Washington D.C.
  • Approximately 600,000 non-biting male mosquitoes are being deployed in the Washington, D.C. area this summer to control populations of disease -spreading mosquitoes.
  • The mosquitoes, released by Bee Safe Mosquito Control, are infected with Wolbachia bacteria, which sterilize female mosquitoes they mate with, preventing their eggs from hatching.
  • This initiative aims to reduce the spread of diseases such as West Nile virus, dengue, chikungunya and zika by targeting invasive species like the Asian Tiger mosquito.
  • The released male mosquitoes do not bite humans, ensuring public safety while effectively controlling the pest population.
  • The program, which has seen international success, will continue through September, with plans to expand deployment in 2026 for long-term mosquito reduction.

IN FULL

600,000 mosquitos are being dropped around Washington DC to kill off blood-sucking pests

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