The only large-scale solutions to mosquito-carried diseases like Zika, dengue fever, and malaria involve spraying huge amounts of pesticides, which can be dangerous for people and the environment in general. A new solution for mosquitos may soon be on its way after researchers figured out how to use a certain bacteria to make mosquitos infertile. By infecting millions of male mosquitos with the bacteria, called Wolbachia, and setting them free in the wild, they’ll outmate the fertile males in the area, produce only dead eggs, and drive the mosquito population down. One California city is using a fertilization technique like this already, and its actually working.
Fighting Zika, dengue and malaria without dangerous pesticides
More of Today's Solutions
5 anti-inflammatory spices that aren’t turmeric
Turmeric tends to get all the attention when it comes to anti-inflammatory spices, but don’t overlook these five other spices that functional food expert ...
Read MoreThe gene that could stop Parkinson’s disease
Scientists are always working tirelessly to figure out new, effective treatments for complex neurological conditions. Here at The Optimist Daily, we’ve reported on many ...
Read MoreMeet Susan Murabana, the astronomer bringing the cosmos to Kenyan youth
A celestial display unfolds beneath the velvety African night sky, amidst the peace of Kenya's isolated Samburu county. It’s 1:30 AM in mid-August, and ...
Read MoreUnlock your charisma with science-based tips for every personality
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Charisma may appear to be something you are born with or without, yet research indicates that it is ...
Read More
