Episode
Google wants to release millions of mosquitoes in the US
- Podcast
- What in the World
- Published
- Jun 8, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 675
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/w3ct98xj
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Summary
Mosquitoes are frequently called the world's deadliest insect. They kill more people every year than any other creature by spreading diseases like malaria, West Nile virus and Zika. In an effort to combat the disease carrying-bug in the U.S., Google is creating an army of sterile male mosquitoes by infecting them with bacteria. It’s hoped that over time these mosquitoes will lower the population of mosquitoes that carry some illnesses. James Gallagher, BBC health and science correspondent, explains how the process works and the reasons Google is interested in this area of research. We also hear from Dorcas Wangira, a global health reporter, about the release of genetically modified mosquitoes in Djibouti. She explains why it’s important to engage with local communities about the issue. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Stefania Okereke Editor: Verity Wilde