EPA Reopens Public Comment Period on Application for Experimental Use Permit to Combat Mosquitoes

For Release: May 10, 2018

In response to requests from stakeholders, EPA is reopening the public comment period regarding an application from Oxitec Ltd. for an experimental use permit (EUP) for genetically engineered OX513A Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.

EPA first announced the availability of Oxitec’s application for an March 9, 2018, in the Federal Register. Following review of the application, data and public comments, EPA will decide whether to issue or deny the EUP request and, if issued, the conditions under which the study is to be conducted.

Aedes aegypti mosquitoes can spread several diseases of significant human health concern, including the Zika virus. Oxitec’s genetically engineered Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are designed to suppress wild Aedes aegypti populations. Genetically engineered male mosquitoes are released into the environment to mate with wild female mosquitoes, and the resulting offspring do not survive.

Oxitec’s proposed experimental program is designed to take place over 24 months in Harris County, Texas, and Monroe County, Florida. For additional details view the entire proposal.

Public comments about this proposed EUP should be submitted to EPA-HQ-OPP-2017-0756 on or before June 7, 2018.