AIBS to Convene Expert Panel on Science of Zika, Potential for Genetic Control

The Zika virus is the most recent example of a virus spreading rapidly around the world with the assistance of an animal vector - in this case the mosquito Aedes. On 15 March 2016, the American Institute of Biological Sciences will convene a meeting of scientific experts to discuss the epidemiology of Zika, the potential for genetic control of the mosquito species that transmit it, and the ethical issues associated with the use of this new biotechnology. This webinar program is free and open to the public, but space is limited and pre-registration is required. The extraordinarily fast spread of the Zika virus has prompted international concern because of its apparent link to birth defects, including microcephaly, in infants born to infected women. The virus may also be linked to cases of Guillain-BarrĂ© syndrome, an immune disorder. The World Health Organization has declared the Zika outbreak an international health emergency. “The control of this disease, among other emerging diseases, is a challenge as people routinely travel around the world, global commerce provides increased opportunities for animal vectors to move into new environments, and climate change allows species to invade new habitats, often exposing the people in the colonized area to new pathogens,” said Dr. Robert Gropp, AIBS’ Interim Co-Executive Director. The plants, microbes, and animals with which we share the planet provide us with life sustaining benefits every day. Periodicall...
Source: Public Policy Reports - Category: Biology Authors: Source Type: news